Ironman officer humbled by win

Taranaki constable Jeff McGrath is running rings around his colleagues. The New Plymouth man has won the New Zealand Police Association Police Sportsperson of the Year award for the second time.

The triathlete and ironman said he felt honoured and privileged to receive the award.

"Initially I was embarrassed," the youth aid officer said. "I thought I had had my time and it was someone else's turn."

He said it was great to have his achievements recognised.

"It's not about the recognition though, I love the challenges. Winning this award is just a bonus. It's very humbling."

Mr McGrath also received the award in 2007.

Police association vice-president Stuart Mills said Mr McGrath should be proud of his success.

"Our award recognises the outstanding achievements of this police sportsperson," Mr Mills said.

"His dedication and determination shown in pursing his sporting goals are qualities that are highly valued in members of police."

Last year Mr McGrath completed for a third time in the world ironman championships in Kona, Hawaii. He beat his previous best time and was the third New Zealander home.

"Last time I said I wouldn't do it again but I did," Mr McGrath said of the competition. "It's addictive."

The first Kiwi amateur athlete home, he was placed 11 out of 206 competitors in his age group.

"I'm really proud of my latest result in Hawaii. Perhaps I'm getting old but of the three years I have competed in Kona, 2009 was the toughest."

He said parts of the course reached 42 degrees Celsius at times. After training in the cold, wet and dark New Zealand winter, going to the extreme tropical heat and sun, together with the trade winds, made acclimatising difficult.

But despite formidable conditions, he has signed up to compete in a half marathon in Taupo in December and another in March, hoping to qualify for the world champs again.

- © Fairfax NZ News