Chance to be crowned iron series champion after career-defining win

CUDGEN local Lily O’Sullivan is gearing up for a chance to be crowned overall champion after a career-defining win in the Shaw and Partners Ironwoman Series.

The final event of the season will be decided at the grand eliminator on the Gold Coast on Sunday, February 1, following super sprint races on Saturday.

A top 12 will advance from the super sprint races, with the series winner decided in the final showdown.

The 21-year-old heads into the event full of confidence after claiming her first career win at Maroubra in Sydney.

“It was a dream I’ve had since I was about five and something that had just been out of reach for me,” O’Sullivan said.

“There were a few mental hurdles to overcome. Once you’re out there, there’s always risk involved and you just have to back yourself.

“Making the top 12 was exciting and knowing I had an equal chance in the last race, I just went for it.”

O’Sullivan came through the ranks at Cudgen Surf Life Saving Club, excelling in board and beach events before progressing to elite competition.

 

Her junior career included Australian titles in the under-19 ironwoman, board race, surf race and rescue tube, as well as the under-17 ski relay.

In 2022, she represented Australia at the World Lifesaving Championships in Riccione, Italy, returning home with seven gold medals.

She later added further success at the 2024 championships, winning the female swim and board race.

Now a regular on the Australian Iron Series, O’Sullivan competes for Burleigh Heads/Mowbray Park on the Gold Coast.

“When I first started, I was racing against girls I’d grown up watching,” she said.

“It was daunting, but it’s pretty special to think I’ve already been part of it for five years now.

“I am a lifeguard at Burleigh, so being able to be on the beach all the time and seeing all the rips and reading the surf has allowed me to get where I am today.”