New name, new director: Jim Wall preparations heat up

THE longest running Iron event in Australia returns for a 63rd year to the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club with a new event director and a new name.

Long known as the Jim Wall Ironman and the Jim Wall Iron in recent years, new event director Tim Altman confirmed the race will be named the Jim Wall Classic moving forward.

“We spoke with Jim Wall’s son, Terry, prior to the name change and he loved it,” Mr Altman said.

“The club just felt it better acknowledged our female participants and the impact they have on the day, we’ve done a revamp of the logo, and the event will again play a crucial part in the Summer of Surf with 5,000 points up for grabs for series competitors.

“Thinking long-term for this event, we’re hopeful to make this event a premier Summer of Surf event in the coming year, so we can really welcome those top-level Ironman and Ironwoman athletes.

“Firstly though, we’re extremely excited for what January 7 has in store for the club.”

Confirmed athletes to take part in next month’s Jim Wall Classic include reigning male champion Archie Vernon, three-time winner Matt Gilling, and Nutri-Grain Iron Series Ironwoman Grace Harris – all of who are Torquay-raised athletes.

Torquay SLSC announced Altman as the club’s competitions director in August, taking over from club stalwart Peter Quinlan in what was a “natural” next step for the club, following Quinlan’s dedication to the club in his capacity as competitions director.

“I am equally humbled and enthusiastic to step into this role, as the Torquay SLSC has been a big part of my life since 1980 when I joined the club for the first time,” Altman said.

“Since I’ve competed and coached in surf lifesaving, flatwater kayaking and ocean paddling for over 40 years, and have had the pleasure of being the Head Ski Paddling Coach since 2011 before finishing that role in December 2022.

“As for the Jim Wall Classic itself, I’ve watched the event since I began at the club, and knowing the history and effort that is behind this event, I’m looking forward to helping bring it to life alongside the club in 2024.”

For the first time in the event’s history, Under 13s races will be run in the race list, in addition to the U15, U17, Open. Swim, Ski, Board, Relay, and Iron races.

Entry registrations for the 2024 Jim Wall Classic are now available. Head to torquayslsc.com.au/jim-wall-iron/