KIAMA product Ali Day can do no wrong in the Ocean6 Series arena, continuing his winning streak on Saturday – showing once again why he is one of the most feared and celebrated ironmen of this era.
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Known for his determination, dedication and fitness, it was also his surf knowledge and ability in Currumbin’s rough surf conditions that contributed to his round four win.
Day seemed to move into another gear at half-time and won the race with nearly half a kilometre lead over the rest of his competitors.
“I’m so happy,” Day said.
“It just went perfectly for me, even in these rough conditions.
“I worked really hard in the spots that mattered and took my time where I could.
“There is still a long way to go and you need to win races to win the series.
“I was so close last year, so I just want to keep the momentum going.”
Day claimed victory on Saturday from Shannon Eckstein and Matt Bevilacqua – which sees the Kiama product move on 337 points, 55 points clear of his nearest rival Kendrick Louis (282), with two rounds remaining in the series.
Not to be outdone was Day’s training partner at Surfers Paradise SLSC Kirsty Higgison, a Nowra-Culburra product.
After a fourth, a 15th and another fourth to open the series, Higgison managed her top result of the season with a second place, behind young qualifier and winner Hannah Sculley.
Sculley displayed experience well beyond her years and has had to work hard to qualify for the final each round, after having had a year off from competition due to a shoulder reconstruction.
“I can’t believe it – to come out with a win is unbelievable and having had most of the year off after my surgery makes it more amazing,” Sculley said.
“Hopefully the rest of the season can be this good.
“I was lucky to pick the right lines and not make too many mistakes coming in and in this surf that really matters,” said Sculley.
“It’s a big step up from qualifying to actually competing in the ironwoman race but I just took it round by round and I’m stoked.”
Rounding out the women’s podium was Brielle Cooper, who finished third.
Heading into round five at Surfers Paradise on February 1-2, Higgison currently sits in third in 269 points, behind Georgia Miller (303) and Maddy Dunn (292).
