Anthony Chapman
Physiotherapist
I completed my Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Otago in 2000 and then went on to complete a Post Graduate Diploma and Masters in Sports Physiotherapy in 2005 and 2006 respectively. My Master's topic was on "Low Back Motion in Cyclists" and involved a 12 camera 3D motion analysis system and lots of number crunching after the initial fun of playing with 3d stick cyclists on the computer.
I started Optimal Performance in 2011 and it is the workplace that I have always wanted to have. I love that we combine classes, gym, physio, massage, bikefits and running all under one roof. I am lucky to have a great team around me including my wife, Vic.
I have been racing bikes since 1994 and have represented Otago and New Zealand on both road and track. Over the years I have won ten New Zealand National titles, an Oceania title and placed as high as 5th at World Cup level. I have won domestic tours and won stages at both Wellington and Southland tours as well as taking the KOM title at the Tour of Southland on the way to finishing 3rd on GC in 2005. I still love cycling but am extending my love of adventures into mountainbiking, trail running and more recently kayaking.
I look am now aiming for the 2025 Coast to Coast longest Day after winning the mixed tandem teams with Vic, my wife, in the 2021 Coast to Coast and placing 3rd in the Vet section in the 2022 Longest Day.
I have the pleasure of being able to combine my passion for cycling with a job that I really enjoy, morphing them together to provide bikesetups, coaching, gym programmes and injury prevention and treatment with a real difference.
Qualifications:
BPhty
Postgrad Dip Sports Physiotherapy
Masters Sports Physiotherapy
PAANZ Dry Needling
Vic Chapman
Muskuloskeletal Massage Therapist
I worked as a Registered Nurse before turning to Massage therapy. I have studied Raynor therapy which is a nerve release therapy that works really well for a lot of clients, helping me to release the muscles more effectively.
I love to ride my bike or run or paddleboard or virtually any other outdoor activity either with my friends or family. I am always looking for new adventures and the chance to get outside whenever I can juggle it around work and looking after our family.
Whether you are looking for a deep tissue sports massage, a recovery rub, pregnancy massage or a more in-depth Raynor treatment, I will help get your body ready for your next challenge. I can also do relaxation massage, but be sure to ask as I find stronger treatments to be more effective at fixing issues and do prefer them.
Qualifications:
Degree in Nursing
Certificate in Brandon Raynor Therapy
Diploma in Brandon Raynor Therapy
HAMISH RICHARDSON
Physiotherapist
I completed by Bachelors of Physiotherapy in 2020 graduating from Otago University. From university I moved into a role in Christchurch Hospital working in acute care, respiratory management and early rehabilitation. Since early 2024 I have moved into the musculoskeletal area to be able to work with individuals and athletes more closely.
I am passionate about getting people back to what’s important for them, whether that be the hills, the bike or the garden. I like to combine manual therapy techniques as well as key exercises to get people back to their best.
Over the last 3 years outside of work I began to develop a draw towards trail running. Growing up and living in rural North Canterbury it was never a long journey to Mt Grey or Mt Thomas to share the trails with my dog. My passion for trail running has only grown and I have goals to complete 100km and 100mile races over the next few years. At present I have my sights set on the 2 Day individual Coast to Coast in 2025. In the weekends you’ll find me out adventuring, whether that be on foot, on wheels or on the water.
Qualifications:
BPhty
Sarah Meadows
PhysioTherapist
I have always had a passion for the human body and a love of learning – this led me to a Bachelor degree in Physiotherapy from Otago University. Since graduating I have worked in a variety of settings in public and private practice. I have continued learning and have undertaken training in manual, visceral and nutritional fields.
I love keeping fit and enjoy being outdoors – cycling, skiing, and occasionally jogging. I have completed the Coast to Coast a number of years ago and more recently kayaked in a team. If I had all the time in the world you’d probably find me in the middle of a mountain bike trail somewhere!
I continue to be inspired by the amazing athletes (from all walks of life) who come in to see us. I feel very privileged to help people navigate their bodies while they achieve such amazing adventures – be it overcoming an injury to get back to life or returning to higher level sport.
Qualifications:
BPhty
Dana Paton
office Manager
Kia ora koutou,
I joined the Optimal Performance team in May 2023 to assist with office administration. One of my favourite parts of the role is meeting all of the lovely clients that come in for treatment!
When not on the reception desk I’m kept busy raising four beautiful kids with my husband Ben, and playing taxi driver to all their extracurricular activities. It was on the sidelines of a junior sports field where I first met Ant & Vic, who also had a child in one of our son’s teams.
I currently help with the local Awatea Athletics club and have been involved as a group running coach for a number of years.
I have a background in competitive running, winning national titles in both Cross Country and Track as a junior and represented New Zealand in the World mountain running champs in Alaska, placing 12th. I subsequently completed an athletics scholarship at Stony Brook University in Long Island, NY, graduating with a BA in Music and Psychology.
Although I’m not racing at the moment, I still enjoy getting out and running in the Port Hills and having adventures in nature with my family and friends.