Racer of the Fortnight – Brad Dutton

25 Apr 2011

Brad Dutton from Hamilton, New Zealand is the our new Racer of the Fortnight.

Brad works as a Part & Accessories Manager at Rollos Marine , based in Hamilton NZ – a family business owned by Brad’s parents.

Brad competes in a number of classes as a driver, observer and skier. He is looking to go to the 2011 worlds as an observer in Women’s F2 & Junior Girls.

Brad has a number of titles and championships under his belt, they include: NZ National, North Island & Series Champion at Under 13, Under 16 and Under 19 level as a skier. NZ National and Series Champion as an observer in Under 13 Boys, Under 19 Girls, Ladies Open and Ladies F2 in the last 2 seasons. Went to the Worlds in 2003 as a Junior and gained a podium in round 4 and 4th overall. Come 2nd 3 times in the 100 Miler – The worlds longest circuit ski race.

Memorable Moments

Winning the Trans Tasman Challenge as team captain against Victoria in Australia.
Skiing the NZ Bridge to Bridge behind Aussie boat Noizworks with Cara Johincke, going the quickest i’ve ever been.
Gaining a worlds medal in the 2003 Worlds when i got 3rd in Junior Boys in Round 4.
Winning the Karen Cartmer Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Contribution to Ski Racing in NZ.

Biggest Influence on Ski Racing Career

Definitely my father, Greg, Drove for me most of my races in my ski racing career. Taught me how to drive and supported me financially

Race / Venue which is special

The NZ Bridge to Bridge is probably the most special to me because it is in my backyard and my parents business sponsor the race and has been a big part of my life for many years.
The 100 Miler is probably my favourite circuit race held at the Blue Lakes in Rotorua – such a picture perfect venue and such a gruelling race.

Is there a race or title that you want to win most ? Why?

The NZ Bridge to Bridge – Just because its the Bridge
The 100 Miler(been 2nd 3 times and 3rd twice) because it is the longest most gruelling race we have here in NZ and possibly the worlds.

What sort of training do you do?

At the moment I am not skiing as much but still try to do a bit of training – mainly Mountain Biking and a bit of social skiing, planking etc. Did a lot more gym work when i was skiing competitively all the time.

Advice to a younger competitor

Be Humble in victory and defeat and let your skiing do the talking. Ski Racing is 90% mental.
Its not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog.
No Guts, No Glory