Harley trims down for ironman

Harley trims down for ironman

A Levin man is having to buy new clothes that fit after almost halving in size while preparing for one of the most gruelling sporting events there is – the ironman.

Harley Tawhara was weighing in at 122kg before embarking on a fitness journey two years ago. Friends and family who he hasn’t seen in a while hardly recognise him. He played rugby at hooker for the Athletic club and joked that if he ever played again it’d have to be at halfback.

Now he weighs just 77kg.

The 39-year-old began training in earnest last year and tested the waters with a marathon (42.2km) at Rotorua, then an Iron Māori event (2km swim, 90km cycle, 21.1km run) at Tauranga.

The main goal now is an ironman event in Taupō in March. It’s not called ironman for nothing – 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run – so no wonder he’s shedding weight, as he puts in hours of training.

“I’m the fittest I have ever been,” he says.

There’s no short cuts – hours in the pool, on the bike, and running. Some mornings he sets the alarm for 4am and can train for 3-4 hours. He’s a sponge for advice from those who have been there, done that.

Harley jokes that it’s a midlife crisis, but in reality, he;s taken control of his own wellbeing through dedication and discipline, and the ironman had given him that journey in pursuit of a goal.

“For me, it’s the ultimate test of physical and mental toughness,” he says. “I’ve heard stories about people crossing the finish line and ringing the bell, and I want that, too.”

Meanwhile, registering and preparing for multi-sport events ain’t cheap. Harley admitted he was a wee bit naïve as to the costs involved when he set the goal and started training – even how many pairs of running shoes he would wear out. He wouldn’t have much change from $10,000 after taking into account registration fee, clothing, nutrition, coaching and equipment, and the event is still four months away.

He is appreciative of sponsorship he has received from the likes of local businessman Travis Sue, owner of Workplace Fitness Gymnasium. 

“Without the sponsorship help . . . it’s made it easier, that’s for sure. Otherwise I’d be taking short cuts. I’m very grateful.”

Harley says apart from what training has done for his wellbeing, he’s also setting a positive example.

“My goal is just to finish. I want to show my kids it can be done,” he says.