‘An incredible journey’: Currie retires

Wānaka athlete Braden Currie competes in the world ironman championships in Nice, France, on...
Wānaka athlete Braden Currie competes in the world ironman championships in Nice, France, on September 11. PHOTO: RENE DOMKE
After 16 years of competing at the highest level of endurance sport, New Zealand triathlete Braden Currie has officially announced his retirement from professional Ironman racing.

Currie, one of New Zealand’s most accomplished endurance athletes, said the decision marks the end of an incredible chapter that has shaped both his life and family.

"I’m stoked to be able to announce my retirement from Ironman racing," Currie said. "It’s been an incredible journey — 16 years of racing the best athletes in the world on the biggest stages. I’ve achieved more than I ever believed possible and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to do as a family, a team, and a community."

From his debut victory at Ironman New Zealand, to memorable podium finishes at the Ironman World Championships in Utah, and a career-defining battle with Javier Gómez at Ironman Cairns, Currie’s career has been defined by relentless determination, passion, and humility.

"Ironman has been my life for over a decade. It’s one of the toughest and most rewarding sports in the world — physically, mentally and emotionally. I’ve loved the challenge, but it feels like the right time to stop chasing finish lines and start focusing on other goals in life."

Currie said his next chapter will centre around family, community and adventure, allowing him to give back to the sport and region that have supported him for so long.

"For years I’ve been focused on racing — training 40 hours a week, chasing goals and travelling constantly. I’m excited now to be more present with my kids, to give back to my local community, and to enjoy adventures that aren’t all about competition. I’ll always love endurance sport, but now it’s about balance."

Throughout his career, Currie’s trademark racing style — "from the heart" — earned him deep respect and his authenticity, sportsmanship, and connection to his Wānaka roots made him one of New Zealand’s most admired athletes.

"I’m incredibly grateful to the people who have been part of this journey — my family, my friends, my coaches, and my sponsors. Many of them have been with me since day one and have become lifelong friends. I couldn’t have done it without them."

Looking ahead, Currie plans to remain involved in the endurance and adventure sports world — both as a mentor and ambassador for the next generation of athletes.

"I feel lucky to walk away proud of what I’ve achieved, knowing I gave it everything. I’m excited for what’s next — to keep exploring, keep adventuring, and keep living life to the fullest."

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS 

  • Two-time Ironman New Zealand Champion — including a commanding win in 2021 (7:57:13); first Ironman victory came on debut in 2017. 
  • Three-time Ironman Asia-Pacific Champion (Cairns) — 2018 (course record 7:54:58), 2019, and 2023 (new course best). 
  • Ironman World Championship podium (St George, 2022) — 3rd place in 7:54:19 behind Kristian Blummenfelt and Lionel Sanders. 
  • Four-time Coast to Coast ‘Longest Day’ champion, underlining multisport roots and all-terrain versatility. 
  • Over a decade of elite racing with 51 wins and 72 podiums across 92 endurance events.