Ryley Harland
17
YEARS OLD
QLD
NORTHCLIFFE
-
2022/23 SERIES
swim
STENGTH
Bio
Ryley Harland is a young, up and coming Ironman from the Northcliffe club. Born and raised on the Gold Coast, the 17-year-old has just finished Year 12 and is ready to rip in for his first Nutri-Grain Series. A strong performance at the Trial was rewarded with a ticket to the 2023/24 Nutri-Grain Series, an opportunity that Harland has dreamed of since he started nippers. Short term, he wants a podium and requalification. Long term, he wants a Nutri-Grain Series trophy and Australian Ironman title. Outside of sport Harland works as a Gold Coast Council Lifeguard and is looking to start an apprenticeship in electrical.
Ryley, how old were you when you started surf lifesaving and why?
I started racing at 11, with my first big race being State Titles. I just found myself racing as I came through nippers. I just naturally made my way into the sport from there.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
My hero was Shannon Eckstein as he was the peak of the sport when I was growing up and him being at Northcliffe through my nippers and seeing him race and train inspired me.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve been given is stay in the moment which my coach Kev Morrison gave me.
Your advice for aspiring Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain athletes?
My advice would be, make sure that you are enjoying the sport as it makes training and racing a lot better. Also surround yourself with people with similar goals and people who will help you achieve them.
What do you think about during a race?
I think about what’s happening in the moment. I try not to get distracted by something going wrong.
Ryley, what has been a high and low in your IronMan journey?
The high of my career is making the Nutri-Grain Series by placing 6th in the Trials. Getting 2nd in the U17 Ironman at Aussies was also a highlight. Don’t have any clear lows at the moment hoping to keep it that way.
Who is your greatest competition in the Series?
My greatest competition would have to be all the younger boys as they will be the closest to me. Looking forward to racing with Mitch Morris as we train and are great mates so racing with him will be great.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, a dog named Pepa who’s 1.