Top iron competitors dazzle in Lorne

The Men's Iron race went right down to the wire. Photos: SUPPLIED

MORE than 200 of the country’s top iron competitors took to the water in the Lorne 5,000 World Ocean Series event at the weekend.

The national qualifying series event brought together top ocean athletes from across Australia and beyond for a thrilling day of racing.

Competitors ranged from Under 13 Boys and Girls all the way through to senior surf lifesavers in the twilight of their careers.

The premier Open Ironman event was taken out by Alexandra Headland surf lifesaver Thomas Lewis, while sporting legend Lizzie Welborn reigned supreme in the Open Women’s.

Lorne SLSC competitions manager Brent Enticott said it was a fantastic day out for all involved.

“The racing was just perfect with great surf conditions and just enough waves to make it really interesting.

The podium getters for the Open Women’s Iron event.

“It was great to have competitors from all over the country join us, including Lizzie Welborn who dominated the women’s events. She also put her hand up to join young teams if they needed a member.

“To see the kids competing with, against and looking up to a champion of the sport like that was just awesome.”