Carla Papac
27
YEARS OLD
QLD
BURLEIGH HEADS MOWBRAY PARK SLSC
11th
2024/2025 SERIES
ski
STRENGTH
Bio
2022 Coolangatta Gold champion Carla Papac’s love of the ocean began as a nipper in the U6’s in Cronulla. Exercise and sport have always been a huge part of her life, combining her passions with her career as an exercise physiologist, balancing her passions of improving people’s wellbeing with exercise whilst also training three times a day to be the best Ironwoman she can be. After travelling around Australia searching for the best coaches and environment to achieve her goals, Papac made the move to Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park SLSC to train under Michael King, be surrounded by more of her support crew and enjoy the Gold Coast lifestyle.
Carla, how old were you when youstarted surf lifesaving and why?
I was 6 years old and my mum put me into nippers at Cronulla SLSC to ensure I was confident and could swim in the surf.
Who was your hero in surf lifesaving when you were growing up?
Courtney Hancock
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“There’s always someone better than you, ask questions and stay curious.”
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Athletes?
I’d pass on that same advice!
What do you think about during a race?
Staying calm and finding the right time to make a move.
Carla, what has been a high and low in your IronWoman journey?
High: Winning the Coolangatta Gold in 2022!
Low: Was a series of health issues and bad results after this huge high, affecting my confidence and attitude towards the sport.
Do you have any secret talents?
I’m bilingual, and am fluent in Spanish.
Do you have any pets?
Chucky, my golden cavoodle!