Joel Piper
21
YEARS OLD
QLD
BURLIEGH HEADS MOWBRAY PARK SLSC
1st
2019/2020 SERIES
Board
STRENGTH
Bio
Currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce and working as a Bank Teller, Ironman Joel Piper made his mark on the surf sports world with a sleuth of Junior Australian Titles, and is now making his way through the ranks into Open racing. Outside of training, Piper enjoys the beach, and chilling with his dog and his friends.
Joel, how old were you when youstarted surf lifesaving and why?
6. My older sister had to do it to become proficient in the ocean and my parents threw me in too. As a competitive kid, I always wanted to beat my sister whether it was for the front seat of the car or at the beach.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
Georgia Fitzsimmons has always been a big inspiration of mine. I was lucky enough to watch her train and race when we both competed for Newport and I was able to witness how a professional ironwoman goes about their business.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“Pressure is a privilege.”
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Iron Athletes?
Stay consistent, work hard, and do the extra 1%ers that others aren’t willing to do!
What do you think about during a race?
Being free.
Joel, what has been a high and low in your Ironman journey?
High: Qualifying for my first professional Iron Series.
Low: I can be inconsistent when it matters most … which is something I am working on.
Do you have any race day superstitions?
Like to swing my arms back and forth a few times and splash my face with some water.
What is your go-to meal before a carnival?
A roasted sweet potato or anything with carbs.