Hendy’s words of wisdom inspire Surfers star Hancock
DEFENDING Australian surf life saving champion Georgia Miller (BMD Northcliffe) has cruised through to the final, alongside former champions Lana Rogers (Alexandra Headland), Courtney Hancock (Surfers Paradise) and leading NSW Ironwoman Lizzie Welborn.
Hancock, now wearing the iconic Surfers Paradise colours, has legend Trevor Hendy in her corner as the club president and she is hoping his daily words of wisdom will help her claim her third Australian ironwoman crown on the Sunshine Coast.
“It’s so funny because I’ve been a part of Surfers Paradise for almost two years now, but I’m yet to race an Aussies for them,” Hancock said.
“Every morning we always have a team chat, and our coach Zane (Hammill) and Trevor Hendy always give us some words of wisdom to think about for the day.
“I think that really helps to calm yourself – it’s nerve-racking, it’s an Australian title and everyone wants to be there for the big dance on Saturday.”
If Hancock wins, she will be the first Surfers Paradise ironwoman to win the crown since Karla Gilbert in 2003.
“I’ve always wanted three (titles),” Hancock said.
“Unfortunately with the last Aussies I just missed out with the run up the beach.
“Also another surf race would be amazing.
“But I think it’s really special for me to be a part of some really incredible teams – I’ve had two really good days with the Surfers girls.”
Hancock, a legend in her own right, is relishing her time in the same club as Hendy.
“It’s pretty unbelievable, because I remember driving up from Sawtell to the Gold Coast just to watch Trev race, and title being so excited to be in his presence,” Hancock said.
“He had no idea who I was or anything, and now he’s one of my closest mates.
“He’s family to me now, and he’s just got this really special aura about him.”
Hancock will line up in a starstudded 16-person field for the ironwoman final that will be shown live from the Sunshine Coast on channel 9GO from 12pm-2pm on Saturday.