Welcome to another' WHY'  episode.  Today we’re talking to Nikki Matthews an age group triathlete from Auckland.  Nikki is an outstanding female triathlete having recently won the overall female age group title at Ironman Cairns in 9hr and 30 min which placed her 5th overall including the professional ladies field.

Nikki also won the overall female age group title at Ironman NZ in 2021 and was 4th in her age group at the Ironman World Championships in Kona in 2019.  

Though her journey to the pinnacle of Ironman racing has been far from smooth.  Nikki's story and what she has been through is inspiring.  It is one of perseverance, determination, self discovery and overcoming life-threatening obstacles.

Nikki was so open, honest and vulnerable with her story, we spoke about:

- Nikki's why and how it has changed through her journey
- Nikki's start in triathlon and having no background in swim, bike or run
- The importance of community that supported her when she started
- Body image and being vulnerable 
- Understanding and accepting what your body needs 
- Race weight and not letting in control you
- Nikki's 15 year battle with anorexia that almost killed her
- Intrinsic motivations
- Challenges of balancing life and training 
- What triathlon has taught her
- What is success and failure 
- Consistency and enjoying the process
- Promoting women in triathlon