The Mount Aspiring College pupil trains six days a week while juggling school work and what social life he can squeeze into his busy schedule.
After winning the New Zealand secondary schools triathlon and coming second at the New Zealand juniors, Staufenberg (17) was selected to compete at the ITU Junior World Championships in the Netherlands later this year.
Because he has not competed outside New Zealand before, he will travel to Europe in July for two races before the World Championships in September.
"I’m hoping by going over there earlier I will get a feel of the other athletes and get an idea of where I’m at."
Ever since he competed in his first triathlon four years ago, the sport has taken up most of his spare time.
"I obviously didn’t do very well but I guess I got hooked and just wanted to keep getting better."
He won the Otago secondary schools senior boys cross-country title at Kaikorai Valley College on Thursday.
Staufenberg’s motivation comes from wanting to be a professional triathlete and his ambition to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games, though having two younger brothers chasing him also helps. Brothers Julius and Leo followed their older brother into triathlon, which has given Staufenberg extra motivation.
"Yeah, we train together, so it’s good motivation to keep beating them, especially in the pool, where it can get a bit boring."
Staufenberg has been getting advice from one of New Zealand’s best triathletes, Olympian Nicky Samuels.
"It’s really good to have someone like her coaching me. With all her experience, I learn a lot from her."
For now he is just trying to find a good balance between training, schoolwork and hanging out with his mates.
"The big thing is getting those early beds in so I’m well rested, but you have to go out with your mates now and then to keep things sane."
