IronMāori: Paralympian Peter Cowan goes full circle
After winning bronze at the Paralympics, Peter Cowan is now a hero to many in his Hawke’s Bay hometown. His career will come full circle this week when he attends the IronMāori rangatahi, tamariki and kaumatua events in Napier.
The magnitude of what Peter Cowan achieved at the Paris 2024 Paralympics only hit him when he arrived home.
The 28-year-old from Hawke’s Bay made history when he claimed bronze in gripping fashion in the men’s 200m VL3.
It was a huge moment and one his local community is still celebrating.
“To see that outpouring of positive vibes and genuine support has been pretty overwhelming to be honest,” Pete says.
“They make you feel loved, and it’s humbling.”
Pete’s as down-to-earth as he is talented, so coming to terms with the attention has been an adjustment. He feels a bit like a celebrity in his hometown.
“Yeah, somewhat,” he laughs. “Hastings is small, and everyone knows everyone, so I have been noticed a bit just walking around. It’s funny, everyone asks if I have the medal on me.
“People are proud of my achievement and what it means to this region.”
Returning to his IronMāori roots
Pete is now about to go back to where his journey began. He will attend the IronMāori rangatahi, tamariki and kaumatua events on Friday, to meet with and support some of the athletes.
“Pete has a remarkable story to share,” says Andy Milne, ACC Deputy Chief Executive for Strategy, Engagement and Prevention.
“In many ways, he had to start his life again after his accident. To become a bronze medallist at the Paralympics is inspirational.
“Pete has shown to many young New Zealanders what is possible if you never give up in life and we’re thrilled he’ll be part of IronMāori this year.”
It’s 13 years since Pete’s life changed in a moment.
At 15-years-old, he was cycling home from school as part of his training for an IronMāori triathlon he’d signed up for with a few of his cousins.
He put his hand out to indicate a turn and turned his head to check traffic when he was clipped by an oncoming car.
Fortunately, two nurses arrived at the scene and saved his life. But he ended up having his right leg amputated above the knee.
Celebrating success to provide an inspiration
The father of two has been reminded by his whānau that celebrating his success is important for the wider community.
“You know, it’s not about me,” he says.
“There’s a bit of perspective from loved ones who remind me people need to see this, and young people need to see local champions. It’s good to see people like me who have kind of been down and out, they need to see something positive.
“It’s just inspiration for others, and it comes with the weight of the medal.”
Pete has unfinished business with IronMāori.
“Being around this event brings on flashbacks – some of them good and some of them bad – but I’m looking forward to being part of it,” he says.
Becoming a better version of yourself
Pete says IronMāori is a unique and inspirational event.
“It’s just positive kaupapa,” he says.
“It changes people’s lives by creating good habits, creating good mindsets, being able to say yes to positive things and no to things that will not help their progression.
“I love seeing people develop and become who they are through overcoming challenges. It helps you develop as a person and become a better version of yourself.”
Pete knows all about overcoming adversity. When he lost his right leg, he had to start again.
“I really had to go outside my comfort zone and meet people who had disabilities,” he says.
“I had to learn a bit more about what I was able to do and break down some of those beliefs of what I couldn’t do.”
Pete has plenty of special memories from Paris. One standout was being on the podium while another was the incredible bond he forged with his longtime coach, Myka Nuku.
“Those relationships only get stronger when they get challenged in big experiences like this. We bonded quite a lot on and off the water, and I’ll carry those experiences with me forever.”
Supporting whānau to live well
From 300 participants in the inaugural event, IronMāori has become the largest half and quarter ironman-style event in New Zealand with around 3,000 competing in 2023.
ACC has supported IronMāori for the past six years. With the organisation driven by its strategy of Huakina Te Rā, ACC Deputy Chief Executive for Strategy, Engagement and Prevention Andy Milne says it’s a natural fit.
Huakina Te Rā is our 10-year strategy. It incorporates our vision, tōnui ake nei, a future where all people, whānau and communities can thrive.
Andy says we’re focused on ensuring Māori are aware of the support they’re entitled to following an injury.
“We believe in the kaupapa of IronMāori and we want to support whānau to live well,” Andy says.
ACC research shows Māori are more likely to experience a serious injury than non-Māori but are less likely to make an injury claim.
Māori clients generally account for 12.5 per cent of new claims volumes annually but account for 16.7 per cent of the population.
“If you’ve had an accident and have an injury, no matter how big, don’t tough it out – taihoa ake and get help,” Andy says.
“ACC is here for you and your whānau to help you recover and get you back doing what you love.”
Pete has simple advice for anyone taking on IronMāori for the first time.
“The first time doing something like this, the atmosphere is always cool and exciting,” he says.
“My advice would be just to go in, back the mahi you’ve done to get there and just embrace every moment. Enjoy it, embrace the nerves and be open to experiencing what is an awesome event.”
IronMāori 2024 Events
- IronMāori Tamariki and Rangatahi: Friday 1 November
- IronMāori Kaumatua: Friday 1 November
- IronMāori Quarter and Half: Saturday 2 November
- IronMāori Tamaki: Saturday 16 November
For more information, please visit the IronMāori website.
