A 62-year-old Wānaka athlete has returned from Australia with medals, a new personal best and the ‘trifecta’.

Karen Neilsen raced in last weekend’s Gold Coast Spartan Obstacle Course Race, achieving first place in the Beast (21km), second place in the Super (10km) and fourth place in the Sprint (5km) for her age group.

Obstacle course racing combines speed and strategy, with competitors racing through a series of obstacles: anything from monkey bars to mud pits and rope climbs to balance beams.

Each of Karen’s races last weekend featured 75 obstacles and in addition to her podium finishes she achieved the ‘trifecta’ - competing in all three events in a single weekend.

“Karen is the epitome of a true sportsperson”, The Fit Collective OCR coach Andrew King said.

“At 62 she shows determination to break through any barrier and is an inspiration to our team and so many people out on the course.”

Last weekend Karen also completed the Super 1:03 faster than her previous personal best time.

She has come a long way since starting OCR six years ago, Andrew said.

Karen’s first ever competition was the Sprint at 2018 Gold Coast Spartan Race.

She said it was special to complete her trifecta at the event that started her passion for the sport. 

Andrew said Karen’s results are a testament to the effort and attitude she brings to the sport and her training.

“I am thrilled at the results she achieved and deserves.”

PHOTO: Supplied