Ryley Harland: Rising Through the Ranks of the Shaw and Partners Iron Series

At just 19, Ryley Harland is stepping into some of the biggest moments of his career. After years of watching the Shaw and Partners Iron Series from the sidelines as a young nipper, he’s now lining up as one of the athletes he once idolised. Known for his work ethic, consistency, and calm mindset, Ryley is carving out his place in a field stacked with some of the country’s best. We sat down with him to chat about his journey, growth, and what it really means to take on the series - alongside his brother.

How does it feel to be part of the upcoming Shaw and Partners Iron Series, and what does this opportunity mean to you?

It feels incredible. Being a part of the iron series means a lot to me; I grew up looking up to everyone in the series and to be able to be a part of it is something I'm very grateful for.

Can you tell us a bit about your journey in surf lifesaving - where it started and how it’s led you here?

I started my journey as a nipper at BMD Northcliffe. I then naturally found myself in competitions as I got older and became more serious as I went. It’s been an awesome journey full of ups and downs, and I'm very proud of how far I've come.

What’s been the biggest turning point or moment of growth in your career so far?

The turning point in my career would be starting to believe that I can compete with the best and that I'm not just there to make up numbers. Being a part of the Shaw and Partners Iron Series is definitely where this growth and belief came from, as I have learnt so much during every race of the series.

How have you prepared physically and mentally for the intensity of the Iron Series?

There are many things I do to prepare physically and mentally. Physically, training consistently has been a big part of my preparation, ensuring I'm at my peak when I put my foot on the line. Mentally, I try to keep myself focused leading up to racing - I stay calm and keep my mind off the race in the days beforehand.

Competing against some of the best in the country - how do you handle the pressure and keep your focus?

I’ve found that throughout my career most of the pressure I feel comes from myself. I've learnt to handle this by turning that pressure into motivation. I like the quote, “pressure is a privilege.”

You’re known for your work ethic - what does a typical training week look like for you right now?

Right now, a typical training week looks like 14 sessions:

• 4 swims

• 3 ski

• 2 board

• 2 gym

• 1 track

• 2 irons

What do you think sets you apart as an athlete in such a competitive field?

I’d like to think that what sets me apart is my consistency and mindset when it comes to training and racing. The training isn't easy, and I pride myself on showing up every day. When it comes to racing, I have a relaxed mindset and just try to enjoy the racing and the process.

Surf lifesaving is all about adaptability - do you have a leg of the Ironman you feel strongest or most confident in?

The leg I feel strongest in is my swim. It's been a crucial part of the success I have had, and I feel very confident in it - it sets up my irons.

You’ve got a great support crew behind you - who’s played a key role in helping you get to this point?

My family has been a crucial part of getting me to where I am - they've made many sacrifices to ensure I've had everything I need to succeed. I’ve been lucky enough to be part of BMD Northcliffe since I was a nipper, and the support from everyone there has been incredible. I’ve also been part of the Engine Swim team since I was 12. They were my first ever sponsor, and I am very grateful for their support.

This year you’ll be lining up against your brother - how has your competitive dynamic evolved now that you're facing off in the Iron Series?

It's special to have both of us in the series now. We haven't raced against each other much, so it's going to be cool to line up together. We’ve always pushed each other at training and have definitely made each other better athletes. The brother rivalry is awesome and is going to be exciting.

Looking ahead - what are your personal goals for this season and beyond?

My goals for this season are to get myself onto the top of the podium in some major races. I ended up 2nd in two series races and a World Ocean Series 10,000-point race, so I’m hoping to go one better and get some wins. My long-term goals are to win a Shaw and Partners overall Iron Series and to win an Australian Ironman title.

Ryley Harland is proof of what belief, consistency, and hard work can build. From watching his idols race to now standing shoulder-to-shoulder with them - alongside his brother - he’s stepping into the next chapter of his career with confidence and purpose. With clear goals and a grounded mindset, Ryley’s trajectory is only heading upward. The Iron Series is just the beginning.