Meet Lucy Derbyshire, one of the rising stars in surf sports and a true powerhouse in endurance racing. In this interview, we dive into Lucy's inspiring journey and her incredible achievements, including her recent second-place finish at the Coolangatta Gold Long Course, one of the most gruelling events in surf sports.
Beyond this impressive result, Lucy made history as the first female athlete to win the Next Gen competition, earning her spot in the prestigious Iron Series. Originally from Glenelg, South Australia, Lucy moved to the Gold Coast to pursue her dream of becoming a professional Iron athlete. Curious about her journey, her go-to playlist, and what’s next on her travel bucket list? Dive into our full interview with Lucy to find out!
First of all, congrats on such an epic result at the Coolie Gold, Lucy! How does it feel to come second in one of the toughest endurance races out there?
The Coolangatta Gold is definitely the hardest race on the racing calendar. To finish the race is an achievement itself. I had put so much into the race, and I love that I could feel and see my improvement from the year before. I’m very happy with second overall, and I can’t wait to do it again next year!
You’re balancing multiple disciplines throughout the race – from the surf-ski to the swim to the run. Which leg do you find the most challenging, and how do you mentally prepare for it?
To be honest, I feel as though I don’t have a weak leg or a leg I find more challenging; I really enjoy all of it. The biggest challenge is managing the surf conditions and trying to run transitions hard in the soft sand.
What was going through your head during that final 8.2km beach run? Did you have a specific mantra or strategy to keep you going?
I think the last run in the Gold is the most challenging part of the race. You feel everything—muscle cramps, rash, the heat. Your body is telling you to stop. I really think what gets me through it is having my family, friends, and coach out there giving me advice and encouragement. It’s hard to give up when you have your people with you every step of the way.
In terms of preparation, is there anything you did differently for this year’s race that you feel made a difference in your performance?
I didn’t do too much differently this year, as I didn’t think I needed to change much of my preparation. Just more running and managing my nutrition better within my training sessions.
Okay, now for some quick-fire questions! If you were a shade of JAYD Swimwear, what would you be?
I think I would be the shade Ruby because I think red represents confidence, and red is also the fastest colour!
What is your favourite piece of JAYD Swimwear?
My favourite piece of JAYD Swimwear is definitely the Finley one-piece. I love the higher cut and the double straps. I feel like I can train at a high level and not have to think about my swimmers moving. I also think they are super flattering!
What is your favourite weekend activity?
I love setting up a picnic and spending the arvo at the beach with friends!
What is on repeat on your playlist right now?
At the moment, I’m running heaps, so I’m listening to my pump-up playlist—mostly rap/UK rap.
What is your favourite snack?
My favourite snack is my mixed berry protein smoothie!
What's next on your travel bucket list?
I want to go back to America and see Las Vegas, LA, San Francisco, and more!
What’s next on the horizon for you?
There is so much to look forward to this summer. Next on the horizon for me is the World Ocean Series and the Iron Series races. I would love to be driving away in one of the cars they have on offer for the overall champions!
