For world triathlon champion Matthew Hauser, an intense weekly regime of running, cycling, and swimming is all part of the journey as he sets his sights on Olympic glory. The 27-year-old Australian athlete is preparing for the upcoming Los Angeles and Brisbane Olympics with a rigorous training schedule.
“I am running around 80 kilometres a week, riding 300 to 350 kilometres a week, and swimming about 20 to 25 kilometres in the pool,” Hauser shared. “It’s certainly all-encompassing but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
In October, Hauser made history as the first Australian in 20 years to win the World Triathlon Championship Series title in Wollongong. He followed this victory with a win at the Noosa Triathlon a month later. These achievements add to a long list of accolades Hauser has garnered over the past 15 years, both domestically and internationally.
From Humble Beginnings to World Champion
Hauser’s journey began in 2010 at school cross-country and athletics carnivals. His talent was recognized by Brian Harrington, the former Queensland school sport triathlon coach, who recruited him for a school triathlon relay.
“He needed me for a school triathlon relay, and being a decent runner, he knew I’d be able to help the team,” Hauser recalled.
Harrington noted Hauser’s determination and willingness to improve, traits that set him apart from his peers. Under the guidance of Harrington and other coaches, Hauser honed his skills in cycling, swimming, and running.
Despite a setback at the 2016 Junior World Triathlon Championship Series in Mexico, where he did not meet his goals, Hauser used the experience as a learning opportunity. His perseverance paid off when he claimed the 2017 Junior World Triathlon Championship Series title in the Netherlands at the age of 19.
Triumphs and Trials
In 2018, Hauser faced a significant challenge when a bicycle crash left him with a dislocated shoulder and a broken hand. This incident prompted him to reassess his approach to the sport.
“From then on, I knew I needed to step it up a level in my professionalism and make sure my preparation was key,” he said.
Winning the World Triathlon Championship Series title on home soil was a career highlight for Hauser. He also holds the dual titles of world individual champion and world mixed relay champion, achievements he attributes to the support of his teammates.
“It is something really special and this historic moment is for not only myself but for Australian triathlon,” Hauser remarked.
Chasing Olympic Dreams
As Hauser looks ahead to 2026, his focus is on defending his WTCS title and pursuing his Olympic ambitions. Having competed in Tokyo and Paris, he is eager to secure a spot on the Australian team for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The qualifiers are expected to begin in the first half of next year, with athletes needing to accumulate points based on their performance in world circuit events.
However, the ultimate dream for Hauser is to compete in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, a prospect that holds personal significance.
“To have it just down the road in Brisbane, between where I grew up and where I’m now based, it’s a really special occasion I want to be a part of,” he said.
Giving Back to the Community
Despite his demanding training schedule, Hauser is committed to giving back to his hometown community in Hervey Bay, where he first discovered his passion for triathlons. He frequently returns to coach young athletes and share insights from his decade-long career in competitive sports.
Paul Smith, the recent president of the Hervey Bay Triathlon Club, praised Hauser’s dedication to inspiring the next generation.
“To be able to cut time out to come back home and inspire our juniors is really special to us,” Smith said.
Since 2023, club enrolments have increased by about 15 percent, a growth Smith attributes to Hauser’s influence.
“When somebody’s seen on the world stage, and a good old-fashioned Australian is achieving, people get a kick out of that,” Smith noted.
For aspiring athletes, Hauser emphasizes the importance of a strong support network.
“Just surround yourself with people that love it and are in the journey for the right reasons,” he advised.
As Matthew Hauser continues his journey towards Olympic gold, his story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with dedication and resilience, dreams can indeed become reality.
