Zarah Farrington
17
YEARS OLD
QLD
NORTH BURLEIGH
#34
2026/27 SERIES
swim
STRENGTH
Bio
Gold Coast local Zarah Farrington grew up competing across swimming, triathlon, and cross country before turning her focus more seriously towards surf lifesaving in recent years. Now 17, the North Burleigh athlete is set to take another big step in the sport as she makes her debut in the Shaw and Partners Iron Series. Currently completing Year 12 at All Saints Anglican School, Farrington plans to study Sports Management at Bond University next year. With English and Irish heritage through her parents, she has spent her whole life on the Gold Coast and around the beach.
Zarah, which race format is your favourite?
Probably the Super Sprint. It’s such high intensity races so there’s no time to settle in or recover from a mistake, so you have to be switched on and ready to go from the very first second. That pressure is what makes it exciting, but it also means every single detail, from the start really matters.
What is the best part of being a surf sports athlete?
Definitely the community of surf. I love meeting everyone and seeing them on race day. I love catching up with people I’ve competed against before, hearing how their season’s going, and just being part of that relaxed, friendly atmosphere before things get competitive. It helps take the nerves off and reminds me why I enjoy competing in the first place.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“If you’re hurting so are they” – Knowing the other person is tired and hurting helps you push through your own limits and ultimately, it is who is willing to hurt the most.
What is your best training hack?
Always show up when you don’t want to, those are the sessions that matter the most.