Kai Harland
21
YEARS OLD
QLD
BMD NORTHCLIFFE
N/A
2024/2025 SERIES
swim
STRENGTH
Bio
Kai Harland started out as a competitive swimmer while doing surf lifesaving on the side, but as he got older he transitioned fully into surf lifesaving and Ironman racing. Harland will make his Shaw and Partners Iron Series debut in 2025/26 after a successful showing at the Trial, presented by Race One Surf Craft. Outside of racing, I work as a council lifeguard on the Gold Coast beaches and study Construction Management at university.
Kai, how old were you when you started surf lifesaving and why?
I started surf lifesaving when I was 5 years old as a nipper. Mum and Dad put me into it when I was young, and from there I grew a real love for the sport and the beach lifestyle.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
My hero in surf lifesaving growing up was Ali Day. I’ve always looked up to the way he races, his consistency across every discipline, and the way he carries himself in and out of competition.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is to focus on controlling what I can and not waste energy on things I can’t. It’s helped me stay calm before races and keep pushing forward in both sport and life.
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Iron Athletes?
My advice would be to enjoy the process and be patient. The Ironman path takes years of hard work, so focus on improving a little bit each season, listen to your coaches, and don’t lose sight of why you love the sport.
Do you have any race day superstitions?
I don’t have any big superstitions, but I don’t like to change anything in the days before a race. Sticking to my usual routine helps me feel ready.
Kai, what has been a high and low in your IronMan journey?
A low point for me was last year when I didn’t have the best results and was dealing with ongoing shoulder pain. A big high has been this season, starting strong and qualifying for the Shaw and Partners Iron Series for the first time.
What do you think about during a race?
During a race I focus on making good decisions and holding my pace. I try not to overthink and just stick to what I know works.
Who is your greatest competition in the Shaw and Partners Iron Series?
My greatest competition in the Series is my brother Ryley. We’ve grown up training side by side, and that’s made us really competitive with each other. He pushes me to lift my standard every session, and it’s pretty special lining up against him in races. At the same time, there’s a lot of respect there, and it makes the sport even more enjoyable knowing we get to share it together.