Claudia Kelly
25
YEARS OLD
QLD
BMD NORTHCLIFFE SLSC
#8
2026/2027 SERIES
Ski
STRENGTH
Bio
Currently studying Medicine (fourth year) with a Degree in Immunology and Pathology at the University of Otago in Dunedin (basically Antarctica, bottom of New Zealand she adds), NZ-based Claudia Kelly crossed the ditch to train with BMD Northcliffe SLSC leading up to her Shaw and Partners Iron Series. 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 reading, mountain skiing, hiking, and baking.
Claudia, which race format is your favourite?
I find the specialist really fun! Especially in big surf, the results of each race can be completely unexpected and it keeps things super interesting.
What is your best training hack?
I genuinely love the spiciness of a good, tough session – appreciate what your body lets you achieve.
What is the best thing about being a surf sports athlete?
There’s nothing quite like racing in big surf! The rush you get from charging into a big set with the girls is unbeatable – it’s the perfect mix of FUN and SCARY and INSPIRING to be part of.
What is your top Iron Series memory?
In the Grand Eliminator last year, I took a chance and absolutely charged at a wave going out on ski. It paid off, and I got my best ever race result! In the following race I did the same thing and my ski got sent into space… big believer in risking it for the biscuit!