In our chat with Nicole we delve into her journey from a young, multi-sport athlete in Taupo to a full-time professional triathlete. Nicole reveals the pivotal role that the legendary training environment of Taupo has played in her success, as well as the psychological advantage she gains from being an underdog. Navigating the challenges of injury and the COVID-19 pandemic whilst maintaining peak performance can be daunting, but Nicole shares how she's managed to stay at the top of her game. We discuss her experiences with managing her mental and emotional well-being as an elite athlete and how the support of her team has been essential to her competitive edge. As Nicole continues to dominate in both Super League and ITU racing, we discuss her preparations for the upcoming World Triathlon Series and the importance of staying healthy and injury-free. With her unwavering commitment and passion for the sport, there's no doubt that Nicole is poised for even greater success on the world stage. Join me in this inspiring conversation with an incredible athlete, as we celebrate her achievements and look forward to her future triumphs in the world of triathlon. LINKS: Follow Nicole Van der Kaay on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/nicolevdkaay/