New Zealand Triathlete Speaks Out Against Local Retailers

New Zealand professional triathlete Nicky Samuels is sharing her discontent with the Wanaka-area retailers who have complained about Challenge Wanaka’s presence in the small town.

One of Central Otago’s best athletes has hit back at a small group of Wanaka retailers and their ongoing discontent about the town’s big triathlons.

Wanaka’s top triathlete, Nicky Samuels, a two-time Central Otago female athlete of the year and one of New Zealand’s top exponents of the sport, has spoken out about her disappointment at the negativity of some of the town’s retailers.

Grumbles from central business district retailers last year have prompted a course change in tonight’s popular Contact Tri Series sprint race, which takes place on the eve of the major Challenge Wanaka event.

“I am disappointed in the local shop owners not liking the race going through our small town. I feel all these competitors in town will be making them money, not limiting it,” Samuels said.

She spoke frankly about the event’s having to be held further out of the CBD than in previous years. “It is a shame the course had to be changed. The new course is not as challenging and exciting for the spectators, with fewer twists and turns on the bike and run.”

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