Jack Moody

New Zealand-based star Jack Moody has transformed himself from a ‘run of the mill athlete’ into one of triathlon’s most exciting prospects.

‘Texas’ - in his own words - was no world-beater in his youth, but through sheer hard work and determination he racked up numerous accomplishments both on the running track and the bike. He won the national title in the 2000m and 3000m steeplechase.

His first foray into triathlon came in 2016 when he and a bunch of friends set themselves the challenge of completing the Rotorua Half Ironman. In his first ever middle-distance race, ‘Tex’ finished fifth behind the legendary Javier Gomez. From then on, he was hooked.

After winning his age group at IRONMAN 70.3 Taupo in 2017, Jack added a silver medal at the XTERRA World Championships in Maui before turning professional in 2018. He won the Rotorua Suffer half-distance in his debut season in the paid ranks.

Further honours followed in 2019 as Moody finished second in the New Zealand Middle Distance Championships during the Tauranga Half, as well as grabbing a podium finish at IRONMAN 70.3 Japan.

His career path could have been so different though, he used to be a DJ playing to thousands each night and remains an “absolute sucker for a cheeky bit of drum and bass”.

Jack says the proudest moment of his career to date was recovering from serious shoulder surgery. He was back a mere 10 weeks later to finish second in his age group at the XTERRA World Championships.

Moody’s most painful moment was at 70.3 Japan in 2019. Jack crashed out and wrapped himself around a bollard. He suffered a concussion, whiplash, a sprained thumb, and little break in the thumb.

Jack does notremember much of the race, just being in so much pain that he cried at the finish line due to the emotion.

His favourite holiday destination in Northern Japan, as he loves the culture, cuisine, and skiing.