Lucy Derbyshire
22
YEARS OLD
QLD
Surfers Paradise SLSC
1st
2024/2025 SERIES
ski
STRENGTH
Bio
Lucy Derbyshire was the first female athlete to win the Next Gen competition and thus earn entry to the Iron Series. Since then she has kept her spot in the Elite Series through requalification, and in 2024/25 was crowned the Shaw and Partners Iron Series Champion. Derbyshire hails from Glenelg in South Australia and moved to the Gold Coast to follow her dreams of one day becoming a professional Iron athlete. Outside of training and competing, you’ll find her traveling and spending time with her friends and family.
Lucy, how old were you when youstarted surf lifesaving and why?
I started surf lifesaving with Glenelg SLSC in SA when I was 11. I really loved the ocean and swimming so thought I would give surf lifesaving a go. I made lots of friends at my club through juniors and have great memories of nippers and carnivals.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
Courtney Hancock has always been someone I have looked up to, growing up in South Australia, she is the one all of us young girls idolised. She’s hardworking, an icon of our sport, and one of the best female athletes ever in surf life saving, having spent half her life competing at the top level.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
Go hard or go home.
Your advice for aspiring Shaw and Partners Iron Series athletes?
Every setback is a set up for a stronger return.
What do you think about during a race?
I try not to overthink things; I try focus on my race plan and remember that I have done all the hard work leading into the race.
Lucy, what has been a high and low in your surf sports journey?
High: Winning the 2024/25 Shaw and Partners Iron Series!
Low: When I had to pull out in 2023/24 due to Covid.
Do you have any race day superstitions?
No, but pre-race I like to get my nails and hair done!
What is your go-to meal the night before a carnival?
Pasta.