Maddie Spencer
25
YEARS OLD
NSW
NEWPORT SLSC
13th
2020/2021 SERIES
Board
STRENGTH
Bio
Maddie Spencer was a late-bloomer when it comes to Ironwoman racing. She started Nippers at Mona Vale SLSC when she was 5 years old, but never raced until U19’s as her focus was on water polo during her teen years. But the late start meant nothing when she qualified for her first Nutri-Grain Series in 2016/17 and came in at 12th. Spencer has also completed the monstrous Molokai 2 Oahu three times and currently works full-time as an event coordinator for marine and Superyacht Australia and is studying a Diploma of Project Management.
Maddie, how old were you when you started surf lifesaving and why?
Started as an under 6 nipper at Mona Vale, didn’t start racing until top age U19s. Had a swimming and Waterpolo background, loved the surf so decided to give Irons a crack.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
I never had any specific idols…. I draw inspiration from my family and my training squad who I train with day in and day out.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
“Start hard and the rest will sort itself out” – Trent (Newport coach)
Your advice for aspiring Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain athletes?
Enjoy the surf and take the good days with the bad – stick together and enjoy the experience with your squad.
What do you think about during a race?
One step at a time, don’t get ahead of yourself.
Maddie, what has been a high and low in your IronWoman journey?
High: Enjoying being in the series last year and this year with boyfriend Jackson Borg – such a great experience.
Low: Haven’t had too many lows, if you put in the work the results follow. Hard to have a low when you have such an awesome training squad
Do you have a secret talent?
I can avoid cooking no matter the situation.
How do you relax away from competition?
Eating yummy food.