TJ Hendy
27
YEARS OLD
QLD
SURFERS PARADISE SLSC
20th
2021/2022 SERIES
BOARD
STRENGTH
Stats
Bio
TJ Hendy considers himself more of a ‘waterman’ and an ‘ocean lover’ than a professional Nutri-Grain IronMan. He is the son of the legendary Trevor Hendy, but he is quickly creating a name for himself with several podium finishes over his IronMan career. TJ prides himself on his transition and strives to be a fully rounded IronMan that can make moves when needed in any discipline. Off the beach, TJ is the proud new father to baby Adaline, who he says is his greatest achievement.
TJ, how old were you when youstarted surf lifesaving and why?
16, late start but loved the ocean my whole life and wanted to be a surfer growing up. I luckily was in the right place at the right time and trained at Surfers Paradise one afternoon. I instantly fell in love with the feeling of pushing my limits in the ocean.
Who was your hero growing up in and out of surf lifesaving?
My Dad. Obviously biased but in my eyes he is the GOAT, although I love hearing the arguments of who the best ever is. I also loved Shannon Eckstein and still love Ali Day, my training partner. If Ali wins an Aussie Ironman title I think he goes into the conversation of best evers with a bit different resume.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever been given?
The man who enjoys the journey gets further than the man who needs to get to the destination.
Your advice for aspiring Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain athletes?
Remember why you fell in love with the sport, that’s all that matters.
What do you think about on the start line?
Taking deep breaths and my willingness to give 100%
What do you think about during a race?
I don’t think a heap, just do what I practice at training and try to be positive if any negatives pop up.
TJ, what has been a high and low in your IronMan journey?
Heaps of highs and heaps of lows but my favourite part is just being under pressure and dealing with it.
Do you have a secret talent?
I can do a Rubik’s cube in 23 seconds.