Nathan Benson
- Red Dog AOTM, How Do You Feel About That?
Honestly? Absolutely stoked! And okay… maybe mildly suspicious the busted calf earned a few sympathy votes. But it’s a massive honour, and I’ll wear the crown with pride (there’s a crown, right?). It’s a celebration of not just racing, but showing up, connecting, and growing with a team that’s become family. - When Did You Join, and What Drew You In?
I joined in April 2022 after being inspired by the fit members. Starting out, I needed a lot of help and aimed to race in an Olympic Triathlon before turning 50. At first, I kept to myself, but with consistency, I found friendship, support, and belonging. Over time, training became more about routine and connecting with others than just the race. Thanks to Trent and the team, I became a more confident, happy member of the team. - Current Training Routine?
These days, it’s 6-7 sessions a week, a good mix of all disciplines with my favourite becoming the Brick session. Just enough to keep my physio gainfully employed. There’s a bit of sweat, a lot of Strava Kudos, and of course a generous helping of “you’ve got this” vs. “why am I doing this?” kind of self-talk to keep me on my toes! - Favourite Session and Why?
That’s an easy one. Track.
The 4:30 AM crew is small but tight, and full of legends (no I don’t mean old).
the 5:30 AM crew, a session full of drafting those speed demons, and of course the obligatory photo bombs – Steph, we see you with that camera.
I like to mix it up, but whichever crew it is… it doesn’t take long until you see the shift from turning up, to picking up the pace, and showing up. Both sessions are great. - Ideal Training Partner?
Swim: Rachel, aka Madame Butterfly—she brings the fun, the fire, and just the right amount of cheek.
Bike: Anyone I can chase… and draft off. Let’s be honest, sometimes training is tactical, especially when Trent pops up around that corner.
Run: Ty, for his motivation and pacing perfection. He has definitely been my motivation at Track this year.
Special thanks to my training partner Super Sai, whose humour and encouragement and banter over the past six months have kept me motivated, and amused, though Rachel is still number one, sorry Sai.
- Favourite Motivational Quote?
I have two;
“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming ‘Wow! What a ride!’”
“One day I will not be able to do this… but today is not that day!”
- Advice for Newbies?
I think everyone would say the same thing. Consistency beats intensity.
Showing up week after week builds a foundation that no one-off race can replace. This team lifts you up. You’ll discover connections you never expected, celebrate people you’ve just met, and find yourself “kudos-ing” strangers-turned-teammates on Strava. It’s not a cult I promise….maybe just a little 😊 - What’s Next on Your Event Calendar?
Sunny Coast 70.3 in September. My year has been laid out since January and Ive hit every goal so far… so why not chuck in more goals… Sunny Coast September then Ironman WA in December where I’ll be racing alongside team mates old and new like David H, Steph & Matt, Cameron and Lee… and a few others I think… its going to be epic. - Life Outside Training?
Besides my husband and dogs, my mind is usually on training, races, gear, shoes, and of course my new bike. My job outside of training helps pay for this “affordable” triathlon hobby. - Guilty Pleasure?
Just one? Okay… Lollies…you’ll generally see me stuff my face with lollies as soon as I get in the car after a big training session. shh, don’t tell Trent.