Overcoming Obstacles at the Melbourne 70.3 Triathlon

Major (Rtd) Soren Hall, Co-captain of the 2025 New Zealand Team recounts the time spent training and embracing recovery through sport.

As the sun began to rise over the tranquil waters of Port Phillip Bay, the excitement and nervous energy among the athletes were palpable. The Melbourne 70.3 Triathlon was about to commence, and for many participants, this event was more than just a race; it was a testament to their resilience and determination. 

Among them was a group of New Zealand and Australian current and former military personnel, brought together through the Invictus Foundation. The Foundation is an organisation dedicated to helping injured, sick or ill veterans and service members recover through the power of sport.

Training for the Melbourne 70.3 was a transformative experience. The rigorous physical regimen helped rebuild our strength and endurance, while the support and encouragement from fellow athletes fostered a sense of belonging and community. The event includes a 1.9-kilometer swim, a 90-kilometer bike ride, and a 21.1-kilometer run.

From New Zealand Ben Peckham and Soren Hall both tackled the individual event. The triathlon offered not only an individual race, but also the opportunity for people to get a taste in a team’s relay.

“As I continue to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, I am reminded of the words of Prince Harry: "The Invictus Games have shown us that anything is possible when we put our minds to it." The Melbourne 70.3 Triathlon was a testament to this truth, and I am grateful for the chance to continue my own journey using recovery through sport,” Soren Hall said.

The first team was Annabelle Reidy for the swim, Steve McDonald for the bike (both former Australian Navy personnel) with former New Zealand Army veteran, Connor McLellan bringing them home on the run. The second team was Kelly Sunnex (serving Royal New Zealand Air Force) who completed both the swim and run with Greg Josephs (serving New Zealand Army) giving her a break with a speedy bike ride to break up her day.

“The Melbourne 70.3 Triathlon was not the end of my journey but rather a milestone on the path to continued growth and recovery. The experience reinforced my belief in the importance of sport as a means of healing and empowerment. It also highlighted the incredible impact that the Invictus Foundation can have on the lives of injured veterans and service members,” Connor McLellan said.

“The Invictus Foundation has played an instrumental role in my journey. Through their unwavering support, I have discovered the transformative power of sport and the strength of the human spirit. The foundation's mission to inspire recovery and support rehabilitation resonated deeply with me, and I am so proud to be a part of this incredible community,” Greg Josephs said.

The Melbourne 70.3 Triathlon was just the latest opportunities available through the Invictus Foundation. Download the “WE ARE INVICTUS” app, for many more sporting opportunities offered all around the world. You will find one that suits you and your journey. You will emerge stronger on the other side through the power of support in a welcoming community. What have you got to lose!

In 2025, the New Zealand Defence Force is sending a team of 19 to compete at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler in Canada.

The team is proudly supported by Fulton Hogan, Dynasty, Sudima Hotels, The Ranfurly Veterans’ Trust, Auckland District RSA Inc, Craig Walker Building Removals, Papanui RSA, Templeton RSA Poppy Trust, Rotorua RSA, Huapai Kemeu Lions Club, NZDF Messes and Clubs, and Veterans’ Affairs.

Still wanting more?

Head to our Invictus Games webpage(external link)