At 21, I completed my first Ironman in Port Macquarie. Although I enjoyed the distance I knew I could do a lot better. Changing my training method and philosophy I got a lot fitter and at 22, I won the age group at Ironman Western Australia crossing the finish line in 8:55.
I qualified for the Hawaiian Ironman World Championships and in October 2008 at 23 years of age, I was fortunate to cross the line in Kona as the 18-24 Ironman World Champion finishing in 9:10. After Hawaii, I turned professional and again changed my training methods. After 3 years of racing full time, I now focus my attention to coaching.
I have learnt a lot of different training methods and techniques since I began in 2002. Some were questionable but some were instrumental to making me a better athlete.
I started T:Zero Coaching in 2010 incorporating these instrumental training methods and philosophies in its programs to help scores of dedicated athletes achieve their goals in their chosen endurance sport. In doing that however, we never take on more than we can handle to provide the necessary attention to each athlete on a daily basis to ensure each individual athlete has the best chance to live their potential.
Apart from understanding the science behind endurance performance and training the mind to prepare for hard racing, the other important aspect is ensuring there is a balance between your training and your other life commitments. I spend a lot of time when developing each customized program to ensure that the athlete achieves that balance so that they have the time to perform at their absolute best in every session and in every race. And since becoming a dad in 2014, I have a greater understanding and appreciation of what it takes in a family household to get the training and racing done.
Coaching highlights:
Coaching over 70 athletes to their first (and subsequent) Ironman races (ranging from 19 - 56 years of age)
25+ Qualifiers to the Ironman World Championships and Ironman 70.3 World Championships
I would have told you how much it means to me that you coach me. That you give me such confidence in chasing these dreams. And that without your belief that I could do this, I would never have lined up to do something that I was not quite sure I could achieve. Belief is a powerful thing. And I’m not sure you will ever understand just how much that belief means to me. And powers me when things get tough. Thank you!
JEN MCMILLIAN - ULTRAMAN AUSTRALIA FINISHER 2019
That race was amazing - you are a freaking genius!
ANDREW PERRY- Ironman MALAYSIA AGE GROUP CHAMPION & IRONMAN World Championship QUALIFIER
I contacted Richard shortly after receiving my invitation to race Ultraman Australia 2018. I was excited but also a bit intimidated by the challenge ahead, unsure how to tackle it. Richard very quickly offered his help and given I am based in WA, we organised a time for a phone call in late November. During that phone call, he not only explained the event day-by-Day with plenty of helpful advice, he also provided feedback on my proposed training plan. By the end of the call, UMOZ suddenly felt like something I might actually be able to do. We stayed in contact over the following months and his experience and advice made a significant difference to my training and race - not only to do well, but most importantly to enjoy it along the way. It was great to have someone who knew the event and course inside out! As everyone says, Ultraman is a team effort and having people around you who can help with different bits and pieces is so important. I can highly recommend to have a chat to Richard to anyone signed up for Ultraman (or thinking about it).
ann brinkamp - ultraman australia champion 2018
After a break from triathlon in 2011 I knew making a successful come back to age group racing in 2014 would take more than just hard work on my behalf. I needed a program I believed in from a coach with a finger on the triathlon pulse. From the moment I spoke to Richard from T:Zero and discussed my plans, goals and triathlon philosophy in general, I knew I had found the coach for me. Richard has been my triathlon coach since that time and I have never looked back. Over the last two years we have accomplished many things including my first Ironman, several Half Ironman’s, long distance and Olympic distance races with podiums in mostly all. I was proud to achieve a top 11 finish at the Half Ironman World Championships this year, though I’d have to say my biggest achievement under Richard’s coaching and guidance has been experiencing the success of being back to back age group Noosa Triathlon Champion in 2015-2016. Though Richard’s meticulous attention to detail in his training and race planning, I feel I have been well prepared for every goal we have set out to achieve. I would recommend Richard to any athlete who not only wants to hit goals, but smash them!
Hannah Hogan- Ironman, World Championship QUALIFIER Ironman 70.3 and 2 x Noosa Champion (35-39)
Enquire about getting your own T:Zero Coach and personalized training program . All coaching is done via correspondence/online so your location won't stop us! Send us your details and one of our coaches will get in touch to discuss how we can help you live your potential.