Omanu surf lifeguard Max Beattie helped to create history this weekend after qualifying for the 2015/16 Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman Series.

Max is one of three New Zealand surf lifeguard to make the cut, and it's the first time in the sport's history that a trio of New Zealand athletes have taken part in the series.

Max Beattie, Danielle McKenzie and Cory Taylor. Photo: Supplied.

Alongside Max, Mairangi Bay's Danielle McKenzie and Midway's Cory Taylor fought for one of six remaining spots (three male and three female) at the trials held at Queensland's Alexandra Headland.

And the Omanu local admits it means a lot to make the series.

'A lot of people have sacrificed time, money and effort into me and it's nice to be able to pay them back for their hard work,” he says.

'On a personal level, it's simply a dream come true and to make it with a Cory and Danielle is a fairy tale.”

Danielle, who finished in third place in the women's trials, is no stranger to the series. Last year she qualified and finished in a respectable 13th place after six rounds. And she's delighted to be back in the series this year.

'The series is some of the toughest racing in surf lifesaving,” says Danielle, 'and it's a great competition to be part of, to race the best ironwomen in the world.

'I can't wait to head home to New Zealand, build up my racing fitness, use the experience I had last season and smash out some great races.”

Max and Cory finished in second and third spots respectively to secure their place in the renowned event.

For Cory, making the series is about being able to compete at the highest level in surf lifesaving.

'Not many Kiwis have had this opportunity,” says Cory. 'I feel privileged to be racing up against the best surf athletes and to be able to gain valuable experience and knowledge throughout the upcoming series.

'It's been one of my main goals since I was a teenager and it's an unreal feeling to have achieved this. I hope this experience can better me as an ironman and as a person.”

The 2015/16 Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman Series gets underway in Queensland from November 28-29, with rounds one and two at Coolum Beach.