Underneath his fresh face and disarming smile lies a tenacious, humble and extremely focused young athlete.
Overcoming multiple sporting injuries to be where he is today, all of the hard work, pain and relentless practice hasn’t managed to eliminate the glint in Sams eye when he speaks about childhood biking memories.
Having been involved in multiple sports from an early age, he can still recount the colour of his first bike and the mountain trails upon which his love for biking was born.
Receiving nothing but encouragement from his family, Sam joins the ranks of many top athletes who’s families have sacrificed, supported and encouraged them throughout their personal quest for greatness.
When it comes to discussing the challenges of pushing for a place as one of New Zealand’s top athletes, Sam’s perspective reflects his signature combination of tenacity and honesty.
SAM DAKIN
Age: 27
Home Town: Born in Auckland, however currently living and training in Cambridge.
Training Facility: The Avantidrome in Cambridge is Sams training base as a part of the New Zealand High Performance Squad.
National Programme’s: Sam is apart of the National High Performance track cycling Program.
Study: Sam completed a Bachelor of Business Analysis with a major in Finance.
Sam has also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Innovation and
entrepreneurship in 2020 online through Harvard Extension University.
Business Ventures:
Co - Founder of Slow Coffee Roasters
Co-Founded Podium in 2021 and a discussion series called Tales Of The Top Two Inches in 2020 with fellow team mate and great mate Callum Saunders.
“One of the things I enjoy most about biking is the multifaceted challenge of it, showing up every day as the best possible version of myself both mentally and physically is what keeps the game interesting.”
“No matter what you are striving for, life can get hard at times. The important thing is to surround yourself with good people. People who, even if they don’t understand, will listen and care about your journey. Then just keep pushing for what you’re passionate about!
Sam intends to carry this message with him all the way to Paris 2024.
While specific to his sporting endeavors, Sams's advice resonates with everyone who has ever worked towards something they are passionate about.
Want to book SAM to speak at your next event? Get in touch below!
Huge thanks for the epic photography from Dianne Manson, Concept78 Photography, Cullen Browne and Dan Chabanov throughout the site
