Ethan Callaghan: Chasing Legacy in the Iron Series

From watching his childhood heroes dominate the surf to chasing his own spot among Australia’s elite, Ethan Callaghan's journey through surf lifesaving has been one built on passion, persistence, and purpose. What began as admiration for legends like Ali Day and Matt Bevilacqua has evolved into a relentless pursuit of his own greatness - overcoming early setbacks, learning from mentors, and finding the balance between grit and recovery. Now, after breakthrough performances and defining wins, he’s setting his sights on the ultimate goal: standing on the Iron Series podium.

Can you take us back to how you first got involved in SLS and what drew you to the sport?

What first drew me to surf lifesaving were the idols I looked up to - guys like Ali Day and Matt Bevilacqua. I just wanted to be like them. Watching what they achieved really inspired me to chase that same path.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges early on was when I first started on the mal. I hadn’t really developed yet and was nowhere near as big or strong as the others in my age group. For a few years, I struggled to compete well. But what kept me going was my love and passion for the sport - I just genuinely enjoyed what I was doing, and that helped me push through those tough years.

How has your approach to training evolved since you first started competing?

My approach to training has changed massively since training under Michael King. He’s taught me what it truly takes to become a professional athlete - not just turning up and trying your best, but learning how to train your body and mind to perform under stress. Now I understand the balance between pushing hard and recovering properly. Not every session has to be intense; recovery and easy sessions are just as important.

Can you share a defining moment in your journey that made you realize you could compete at the highest level?

A defining moment for me was winning the 2023 Hayden Kenny Classic. That win made me realise I had what it takes to compete with the best. It gave me a huge boost in confidence and really lit a fire inside me to keep pushing toward becoming an elite athlete.

How did you stay motivated during the toughest parts of the Iron Series season?

I stay motivated by focusing on what can be achieved - the goals I’m chasing and what’s possible if I keep going. The Iron Series can be brutal, and there are definitely times you feel like giving up. But it’s about who can get back up and keep going when things get tough. That’s what separates the good from the great.

 

Who have been your biggest influences or mentors along the way?

My biggest mentor has been Ben Carberry. He might not even realise how much of an influence he’s had on me, but he’s played a huge role in my journey. He’s always there to encourage me, help me enjoy the process, and remind me that racing should be fun. Every race he’s there supporting me, and he’s not just a mentor - he’s a great mate and role model to have around the club.

Are there particular races or performances that stand out as career highlights for you so far?

Definitely the Hayden Kenny Classic and the first couple of rounds of the Iron Series. Those moments really stand out as big milestones in my career so far.

How do you balance the physical and mental demands of such a gruelling sport?

To keep myself balanced, I like to take a step back from training when I can. I’ll go to work during the day or spend time working on my car - things that take my mind off racing and training. It helps me reset mentally and keeps me from burning out. 

What lessons from your journey in the Iron Series do you think translate to life outside of sport?

The biggest lesson is resilience - learning to keep pushing even when things aren’t going your way. The sport teaches you how to stay disciplined, manage pressure, and bounce back, which all carry over into life outside of racing.

Looking forward, what goals or milestones are you most excited to chase in the coming seasons?

My biggest goal is to finish on the podium overall at the end of the Iron Series. Standing up there with the best of the best is something I’ve always dreamed of, and that’s what I’m chasing in the seasons ahead.

From the kid who once looked up to his surf lifesaving idols, to the athlete now carving out his own name among them - Ethan’s story is proof that hard work, heart, and resilience pay off. With the lessons learned from every setback and the fire still burning stronger than ever, he’s not just chasing results - he’s chasing legacy. And as he eyes that Iron Series podium, it’s clear this is only the beginning.