"Mark has exceptional skills in motivating and organising the athletes into the programs set.  It is not always easy to get tired athletes out onto the water to do yet another session, but Mark is a good task master and we get the work done."

Ian Ferguson MBE, Olympic & World Champion

"Mark is truly amazing. Every time I talk to him I walk away buzzing on his advice and empowerment, that I can do what it is I really want to achieve. Mark is real down to earth, he takes no shit and has an awesome kiwi go getting attitude. I am so stoked to have this guy on my team.

Samara Sheppard, Professional Mountain Biker

"I cannot thank Mark enough for all that he has done for me. In suffering from a chronic injury he didn’t help me through rehab – he taught me how to conquer it.  Mark has an exceptional ability to simplify the complexities of life by cutting away the nonsense and bringing attention only to what is of importance in the long run. He has helped me develop the skills, focus and mentality, to improve the way I operate as I work towards achieving my athletic dreams and aspirations. He has had such a positive impact on everything that I do, not only as an athlete but as a whole person. I am so fortunate to experience Mark’s mentoring. Every fragment of Mark’s energy is undoubtedly priceless; it is contagious - so try and catch it!"

Kristie Baillie. Previous New Zealand Women's 400m Champion; New Zealand Commonwealth Games Women's 4x400m Relay Squad Member.

"I guess if you want to be the best you need the best.  I needed help with direction and a proper schedule.  Mark became someone I trusted and I will never forget the way he believed in me as a sports person and my capabilities, especially in the lows where he has sat with me reassuring me of my goals and talking about what is important to me, dismissing any thought of being a failure, when you have already achieved.

I am truly grateful for Mark's sincerity as a friend, a fitness specialist in every way. Truly a credit to his profession today in the sporting world. Thank you Mark."

Sandy Barwick Ultra Marathon, World Record Holder

"Mark Sutherland played an integral part in my athletic career leading up to the pinnacle of my sport, that is, to become World Champion.  There are many qualities Mark has that puts him amongst the best coaches of this world. 

He tells you how it is, complete honesty and integrity that athletes like myself needed to know.  It gives me great pleasure to see Mark not only proud of me and my achievements, but of himself and his achievements of being a coach to a world champion."

Katrina Egan, World Surf Ski Champion

"I asked Mark to help with my sports nutrition and exercise after graduating from golf professional trainee school. Little did I know what an impact Mark would have on me, not only my golf game, but also on my organisation and time management skills away from the golf course.
 

Mark is an extremely positive person who will not let you put roadblocks in the way of your dream. One of his favourite sayings is "there is no one walking in front of you with a sign saying you can't do it".

It has been a great pleasure and an honour to work with Mark. It is also a pleasure to class him as a friend.

Dayne Bulloch. Professional Golf Coach.  Washington 

"Mark has been an inspiration to me. he has been professional when I need it.  He has also been a friend and confidant when I needed it. I highly recommend the services of Mark. He shares his knowledge freely and honestly, allowing you as an elite athlete to reach maximum potential."

Kellie Payne NZ Aerobics Champion and 6th at World Champs

Mark I wish to congratulate you, on behalf of the Board of Women's Golf New Zealand, and thank you for your vital contribution to that win. As in many undertakings in life, good preparation is the key to ultimate success, and never more so than in the sporting arena. After your work with the team during the build-up, and then as manager during the event, you must take a great deal of satisfaction and pride for the team’s success.

Sue Bunt, Chairman, Women’s Golf New Zealand
regarding winning the 1999 Queen Sirikit Cup