Claudia Kelly
23
YEARS OLD
QLD
NORTHCLIFFE SLSC
N/A
2023/2024 SERIES
Ski
STRENGTH
Bio
Currently studying Medicine full time at the University of Otago in Dunedin (basically Antarctica, bottom of NZ she adds), NZ-based Claudia Kelly will be crossing the ditch to train with Northcliffe SLSC leading up to her Shaw and Partners Iron Series debut this season. She has had successful campaigns with the NZ Junior Black Fins and Black Fins but has struggled with foot injuries over domestic seasons – six broken feet. Kelly is proud to be from East End Surf Squad in Taranaki, where she’s been since she was 4 years old and says she will always train and compete with them in NZ. Outside of surf sports and studying, Kelly is a swim coach in Dunedin and loves going for a board, surf, or paddle between classes.
Claudia, how old were you when youstarted surf lifesaving and why?
4 years old – my family lived by the beach and wanted to be safe and have fun in the water!
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
Harriet Brown – I have seen her be the most resilient ironwoman out there and have such amazing comebacks after injury, and that really helped me through my tough times. Also Danielle McKenzie – it’s amazing to have such a LEGEND from NZ to watch in the Iron Series, and I’ve always been AMAZED by her surf skills and knowledge.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“Just gotta doze.”
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Iron Athletes?
Having a healthy body and mind is key to performance. You need to fuel your body for our crazy training loads, and make sure you’re enjoying the process!
What is your favourite type of music?
Taylor Swift (she is a genre in herself)
Claudia, what has been a high and low in your IronWoman journey?
High: Winning the Junior World Title in 2018 was for sure an insanely cool feeling.
Low: Breaking my foot for the SIXTH time last season was really devastating as I had started to really get going training with the GON and was looking forward to competing at the World Champs in 2024.
Do you have any race day superstitions?
Just gotta have my porridge in the morning.
Do you have a secret talent?
Cramming for an exam.