Bella Williams
21
YEARS OLD
QLD
NORTHCLIFFE
24th
2023/2024 SERIES
swim
STRENGTH
Bio
Bella Williams has once again earnt a start in the 2024/25 Shaw and Partners Iron Series, after achieving her dream of making her first professional Iron Series last season. Now living on the Gold Coast and training with the GON (Girls of Northcliffe), Williams paved her way to the Shaw and Partners Iron Series with an inspired performance at the Trail Round, presented by Race One Surf Craft. Outside of surf sports, Williams is completing her Nursing Degree.
Bella, how old were you when you started surf lifesaving and why?
I was 6 years old when I started surf lifesaving. I loved the beach and being active so it was the perfect fit!
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
I’ve always looked up to Courtney Hancock. She has achieved so much and is an awesome role model as both an athlete and a person – in fact she is the reason I wear pink ribbons when I race!
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“Excuses make today easier but tomorrow harder,” or
“Discipline makes today harder but tomorrow easier.”
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Iron Athletes?
Be a sponge! Listen to your parents, coaches and idols when you get a chance.
Do you have any race day superstitions?
I like to wear pink ribbons in my hair.
Bella, what has been a high and low in your IronWoman journey?
High: Selected into the Australian Open Lifesaving Team in 2023 was definitely a highlight of my career. It was so special receiving my Australian numbered cap and blazer and to be apart of the rich history of Surf Life Saving.
Low: A low point in my career was my longtime coach Wayne Whiteman passing away. He was my coach for every discipline for around 8 years in Newcastle before I left for the Gold Coast. It felt like a piece of my athletic career was missing, I was seriously contemplating quitting the sport at the time. But with the right help and guidance at the time from family, friends and teachers I was able to come back stronger and race for not only me but for Wayne himself.
What do you think about during a race?
One leg at a time, and focusing on my breathing.
Do you have a secret talent?
I’m really good at drawing.