Catching up with AIMES Alumni Danielle McKenzie

Danielle was the recipient of the 2015 AIMES Emerging Talent Award, sponsored by Bellingham Wallace

Danielle has been a part of the iconic Australian Nutri-Grain Ironwoman series since 2014. She is one of the few kiwis to gain access to this elite series, and created history by becoming the first female New Zealander to ever podium.

 

At the most recent 2019 NZ National Surf Lifesaving Champs Danielle Won 11 National titles. She has a staggering 41 NZ Surf Lifesaving National titles to her name, including 4 x Ironwoman, 4 x Surf Ski and 5 x Board titles, more than any athlete has ever received - and all for her local club, Mairangi Bay Surf Lifesaving Club.

 

2019 has been a big year for Danielle, she has hit the World Surf Ski stage and hasn't looked back, taking out 1st place in a number of events around the world, including Hong Kong, France, Perth & Sydney, landing herself 4th overall in the World Surf Ski League, a huge achievement.

 

As a multi disciplined athlete she is absolutely at the top of her game, and continues to have big aspirations for the future.

 

Here is the highlights video from the 20 Beaches Ocean Classic - one of the many races that Danielle took out the top spot in 2019!

 

During lockdown on the Gold Coast, Danielle put together a training video for any budding water sports athletes, or athletes in general. A great way to get motivated following in the footsteps of an elite athlete!