Hundreds to return to Jim Wall Iron

MORE than 200 of the state’s best surf lifesaving athletes are expected to take partin the Surf Coast Times Jim Wall Ironman at Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) on January 8.

The world’s longest running iron event will return for its 62nd year to Torquay Surf Beach as lifesavers converge from all corners of the state looking for the chance to etch their name on the coveted Jim Wall trophy.

Burleigh Heads’ Matt Gilling, originally from Torquay, is already confirmed to defend his two-time crown, while Sophie Thomas will not compete in 2023, meaning a new women’s champion will be crowned.

Jim Wall Ironman race director Peter Quinlan said Torquay SLSC is looking forward to another high-quality event for 2023.

“We’re adding a few more things to the entertainment side of things, things like a DJ as well as the same commentary team again,” Mr Quinlan said.

“The day will hold a singular course, provide a natural amphitheatre for spectators on the hill, we expect a terrific atmosphere and a terrific event on the day.”

Mr Quinlan said the short-course eliminator will be back in 2023 following its popularity among fans and athletes a year ago.

With the Victorian Senior Championships taking place on February 24-26, the Jim Wall Ironman has historically gauged where athletes are fitness-wise in the early stages of the Life Saving Victoria season.

“The vibe of this event, and I’m talking about team managers around the club and the state, is that teams pencil the Jim Wall into their calendars, because it’s simply a great event and Torquay puts a lot of effort into this event,” Mr Quinlan said.

“The other clubs acknowledge it and they support it, so from that perspective, it’s a great opportunity to show what Torquay can do and it’s a great chance to see the state’s best athletes in action.”

The 2023 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships will be held in Perth from March 25 to April 2.

Torquay SLSC marketing director Damian Chappell said it will be a special year for him, given he will be part of running his first Jim Wall event next Sunday, compared to the past two years as a spectator.

“The fact this is the first iron event ever and the fact that it is right here in Torquay is super special to me personally.

“It’s great to now be a part of this event behind the scenes rather than on the hill, now I get to see a little bit of how the sausage is made and hopefully everyone on the day can see how much effort we put into this event as a club.”

The Jim Wall Ironman will include board, ski and surf races, mixed relays and team events. Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 athletes will also compete on the day.

Final course and event details will be released closer to the event.