MATT Hauser is becoming one of Hervey Bay’s greatest athletes as he currently competes on the international Triathlon circuit and climbs the world rankings.

His recent second place finish in 2023 World Triathlon Championship Series event in Yohohama, Japan which gives him a podium finish five times in his last eight races and now ranked 4th in the World Championship.

Matt spoke exclusively with the Hervey Bay Advertiser and you can sense his growing confidence.

“My focus is firmly set on qualifying for Paris next year and whilst the second place in Yokohama will go a long way to achieving this, the automatic selections are in August and September. There’s a big year ahead,” said Mr Hauser.

It was a bumpy start to the year for the local triathlete who had to deal with some sickness and other setbacks earlier in the year. His overseas competitions provide other challenges that he continues to overcome.

“I’m just really pleased to be performing consistently in a sport that has so many variables and moving pieces with travel etc. Something that I have previously struggled with. My belief in myself and my ability has grown ten fold,”, said Mr Hauser.

He admits that the biggest challenge whilst being overseas is missing his family and friends. Matt feels fortunate that he has “awesome” support around him that has played a part in his success.

His goals for the rest of the year – “to qualify for the Olympics- Auto selection is a top eight at either the Test Event in August (Paris) or a top eight at the World Championship Final in September (Spain)”.

Hauser aims to be back in Australia by October to finish the end of the Super League Series of racing and finish off the season with the iconic Noosa Triathlon - a personal debut for him. He hopes to spend Christmas with family and friends in Hervey Bay.