Sienna’s Story: Balancing Sport, School, and Big Dreams

 

At just 17, EngineAthlete Sienna Bush is proving what determination and balance can achieve. Fresh off a national title in cross country and preparing for the upcoming Ironwoman trials, she is juggling two elite-level sports alongside her schoolwork and doing it with maturity beyond her years.

A Special Win in Ballarat

Earlier this year, Sienna won the U18 Girls 4km Cross Country Championships in Ballarat. The victory was more than just a medal. After setbacks with injury and time away from competition, running pain free and returning to the top was a huge milestone. “It felt incredible,” she said.

Balancing Two Sports (and School)

Sienna competes nationally in both cross country and surf lifesaving – two disciplines that demand completely different training schedules. Balancing them, while also focusing on her studies, is no small task.
“There are only so many hours in a week,” she explained. “I want to do well in everything – surf, running, and school – so it can be tough. But when the results come, all the hard work feels worth it.”

Her commitment to education is just as strong as her drive in sport. Sienna knows school is an important foundation for her future, and she takes pride in applying the same discipline to her studies that she does to training.

Making Hard Decisions

Competing at such a high level often means making tough choices. At 15, Sienna represented Australia at the U20 Cross Country Championships in Serbia. This year she had to pass on the chance to trial again, as it clashed with the Australian Surf Team’s trip to New Zealand.
“It’s disappointing to make those decisions so early,” she said. “But I know surf lifesaving will be my future. Running has been an amazing stepping stone, and I’m grateful for everything it’s given me.” 

Training Like a Professional

Sienna’s week is packed. She trains up to 15 times a week – mornings, evenings, and even during school hours through her Surf Excellence program. Sundays are her only rest day.

Cross country season recently kept her focus on running, but she knows the endurance she builds there will give her an edge in surf. With targeted sessions from her coach, she feels prepared for the challenges of the Ironwoman trials.

Crossovers and Strengths

Sienna believes the mix of disciplines is a strength rather than a drawback. Running builds endurance for surf, while swimming gives her an edge on the track.

“Cross-training has always been one of my biggest strengths. It keeps me fit year-round and means I never really have an off-season.”

Family Support

Behind every session, race, and decision is her family. They drive her to training before school, support her through the challenges of balancing sport and study, and remind her to enjoy the journey. Their encouragement, combined with her coaches and the backing of Engine, gives Sienna the platform to chase her goals with confidence.

Looking Ahead

Sienna’s story is one of resilience, balance, and optimism. She represents the best of what young athletes can achieve when they combine hard work with passion and support.

ENGINE is proud to stand beside her as she continues to grow – in the surf, on the track, in the classroom, and in life.