Chris (MACCA) McCormack has won four World Triathlon Championships and is a legendary figure in world sports. He recently took the reins as Executive Chairman of Thanyapura Phuket.
Chris McCormackWhere are you from?
I hold an Australian Passport but have lived abroad for 20 years, between the USA and Switzerland.
Why did you move to Phuket?
Having been a professional athlete for 20 years, I was mainly doing on-the-road racing, but I moved to live in Phuket in November of 2013 for the chance to help grow the sporting gem of Thanyapura.
Tell us about your vision and objectives for Thanyapura.
My vision is to create a culture that is sports-driven around fun and participation. Understanding sporting culture globally is the key to success in a centre like this. The hardware is the best in the world. My vision is to ensure the software can deliver at the same level.
Do you have family with you?
I’m married with three children aged 10, 7 and 3 and my wife is Australian. The kids all go to Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS). As someone who grew up in a strict educational household, I wanted a good education for my kids – and we’ve found that with PIADS and are over the moon with the school.
Where do you live in Phuket and what determined your choice?
I rented a beautiful house with my family at Layan Villas close to Laguna, Thanyapura and the airport. We’re surrounded by lots of other children that attend our school, so my kids have friends close by.
How does doing business/working in Phuket compare to back home?
It's very different but presents challenges that I enjoy. The Thai people are very welcoming and generous with their help. I think the challenges are the same as at home, it’s just the rhythm and the pace that’s different.
What kind of car do you drive?
I have a company car, I think it’s a Fortuner…I have no idea what the brand is to be honest! I spend most of my time riding my bicycle, as I like to do my training in the early mornings before I start work.
What do you like most about living in Phuket?
We enjoy the friendly hospitality and the easy pace of life. Access to the beaches and beautiful restaurants is awesome and it’s a safe and easy environment for families.
What's the hardest thing about living here?
It has its challenges in some areas, but to be honest not much is frustrating. I think the only thing that’s ever annoyed me has been my own fault in the sense that it derives from a lack of understanding of the culture.
What do you think the future holds for you?
Happiness and fulfillment. I’ve always done things that follow my passions. This is what drove me to become a professional athlete and leave my banking job, and what brought us to Thailand. My focus in life has always been about being happy and passionate in anything I do.
How do you evaluate success?
Success for me is always valued at a personal level. I'm a process-driven individual and I think this is evident in the success I’ve had on and off the race course. I like to plan and build out the process to deliver success. Then I think my biggest strength is execution… I set a target and never waiver from my objective.
What do you tend to eat?
The great thing about living here is my love of Thai food. This is a big plus. I eat everything but try to keep my intake as organic as possible.
What motives your incredible life choices?
My entire life choices are driven by passion. You couldn't pay me all the money in the world to do something that I didn't like. Passion has shaped everything I have ever done. I like to be inspired.
Do you think you will compete against Lance Armstrong?
A race was set for September here in Thailand and I would still like to do it. Lance is very keen on the race, but he has a lot on his plate at the moment and simply cannot commit. He's keen to do it and all the money would go to charity, so it would be an awesome event for many people and for Phuket.
For further information about Thanyapura
120/1 Moo 7 Thepkasattri Road, Thepkasattri, Thalang, Phuket
www.thanyapura.com
Visit our other website
GO TO TOP
