Torquay Jim Wall Ironman Classic — Home of the World’s First Ironman Race

The Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series heads to the Surf Coast on 4 January for the Torquay Jim Wall Ironman Classic, held on the very beach where the world’s first Ironman race was contested. Steeped in history and surf culture, Torquay is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns.

Starting as the Jim Wall “Surfathon” in 1962, named for early club resident Jim Wall, the unique event was first created at TSLSC to challenge all round surf and water ability, with an endurance format including continuous efforts in swimming, board and ski paddling and beach running. It is believed to be the first continuous ironman event ever staged, in that format that has now become standard. The event has become a coveted ‘hit out’ for both local and interstate athletes, with the sought-after prize being a hand on the Jim Wall trophy.

Having been won by many well-known athletes over the years, such as Matt Bevilacqua, Harriet Brown, Naomi Scott and Georgia Miller, the event has seen its fair share of local champions too – names such as David Strahan, Archie Vernon, Zeb Walsh, Cliff Goulding, and Terry Wall (son of Jim) in the early days, have graced the podium.

In modern times the event has become part of a national circuit and as females have greatly bolstered the surf life saving movement, they are now competing in their section of the event as fiercely as their male counterparts.

Now part Summer of Surf Series as a 5000 point event, The Jim Wall Iron is now a drawcard for athletes seeking to gain an advantage in the season while competing for one of the most coveted trophies in all of Australia.

The event is also a free spectator sport for visitors and gives prime time exposure for a huge cross-section of the community and tourists visiting the area. The event is promoted heavily and is a drawcard for visitors to Torquay and the local surrounds. With the Torquay Surf Beach providing a natural amphitheater anchored by the Torquay Surf Club which features a bar with the best view in the world, thousands flock to the beach to enjoy the spectacle of surf sports.

Over $8,000 in cash and great product prizes on offer

Jim Wall Ironman and Ironwoman 1st $1500, 2nd $1000 3rd $500

The Jim Wall Classic will start 9am Sunday 4th Jan 2026

Event Schedule

Check for live results here:

The third stop on the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series Southern State Showdown.