Sign In / Register
Two Waipu athletes will go head-to-head with some of the world’s best fitness racers when they compete in the Puma Hyrox World Championships in Sweden later this year.
Gilbert Costello, aged 34, and Michael Treend, aged 66, have qualified for the men’s pro doubles, which will test their strength and endurance using pro division weights.
Gym owner Costello says Hyrox started in 2017 and has grown into a massive global event.
He explains that it is a fitness competition that combines running with different workout and cardio stations.
Both partners must complete a total of eight kilometres of running (one kilometre before each station) together, but they can strategise how to split the workload at the eight functional workout stations.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Costello played soccer and tennis from a young age while growing up on a farm in Mangawhai. When he was 10, he moved with his family to Waipu and, in 2018, he opened The Shred, the first gym in the community.
He says he enjoys the team format of Hyrox, rather than competing individually, so was pleased when Mick agreed to partner him in the men’s pro double.
“We competed in individual events in Melbourne and that’s when I realised we should compete as a team,” Costello says. “We started doing more training sessions and simulations together – I’m very fortunate that he lets me coach him and push him, despite our age difference.”
Mick moved from the United Kingdom to New Zealand 22 years ago, and has lived in Waipu for the past five years.
“Gilly introduced me to Hyrox and convinced me to give it a go. I’ve now competed in six events, thanks to his coaching,” he says.
The community is getting behind the pair’s bid to compete internationally.
A neighbour has organised a fundraising campaign to help cover flights and accommodation.
“A couple of people from the gym said, ‘We’re going to help you,’ and they organised the fundraiser. It’s been really helpful for our trip,” Costello said.
Mick highlighted the importance of community support.
“That’s what makes places like Waipu or Mangawhai so special. They’re not big towns, but they have a very close and supportive community. I’ve been supported all year, even by people I’ve never met before – it’s very touching.
“I’m looking forward to representing this gym and this community on the world stage.”
The Puma Hyrox World Championships will be held in Sweden from June 18 to 21.
