We thank YOU Ali Day.
It's hard to find the right place to start when you’re talking about Ali Day.
Do we kick off with the opening line describing his incredible achievements?
Do we delve straight into the story telling of his Surf Lifesaving career?
We could begin by telling you what a humble, loyal and loving father, husband and
friend he is, or perhaps launch into his legacy and the magic he has made within our
sport of Surf Lifesaving.
For now, let’s start with Ali and the moment he believes defined his extraordinary
career.
“Qualifying for my first Iron Series when I was 19, I got my singlet, the pair of togs
with my last name on the back and I was racing my idols, we were on TV, and
signing autographs at such a young age!” he spoke, reminiscing on the beginning of
what was to come.
“That was the moment I had achieved the dream that I had set out to tick off; to be an
Ironman in the Ironman Series.”
And so began, the legacy of Ali Day.
Built upon the foundation of mindset and mentality, Ali’s approach to training and
racing has not only led him to success, but has shaped the athlete that we know, and
love today.
“I've always had to have that mindset or mentality to leave no stone unturned,” Ali
shared.
“I wasn't necessarily the strongest or the fastest, nor did I have the best skills, but it’s
always been about doing everything right, ticking all the boxes!”
Whilst at time’s it has meant sacrifice, Ali’s commitment and devotion to our sport has
ultimately delivered a career of fulfillment, exhilaration and life-defining moments.
“It’s what I’ve had to do for this success in my career, it’s something I’ve thrived on
and what I’ve loved doing,” he said.
“It’s made me the athlete that I am today!”
And who he is today is indeed a humble, loyal and loving father, husband and friend.
Adored both on and off the beach, Ali will tell you that his success is not only built
upon the foundation of his mindset, but the pairing of his hard work and the impact of
those closest to him.
“I’ve been really, really lucky with the people that I have had around me, especially
my wife Kel, she’s had the greatest impact on my career!” the sincerity in his voice
felt with every word.
“In terms of coaches I’ve been so fortunate, with Michael King and now with Zane
Hamill, and in terms of the mentors that I have had, and the clubs that I have been a
part of I’ve just been so lucky with the people that have come into my life!”
Upholding excellence for the many years of success, Ali narrows it down to three
simple ingredients.
“I’ve been lucky with the people that have come into my life, I’ve worked really hard
with it all and at the same time, I’ve loved it which has made it pretty easy for me!”
But as the saying goes, all great things must come to an end.
What an honour it has been.
Seeing out the 2025/26 season Ali’s next chapter awaits and he, as always, is ready.
“I’m looking forward to not being selfish with my time, not being bound to a diet or a
season, breaking free from the strict rules I’ve had for many years,” he shared.
“I’m obviously going to miss it, I’ve done it for so many years and to be able to be fit,
healthy and to have that as your job, I’ve been so fortunate.”
Ready to take a step back from the discipline and greater into the role of fatherhood,
Ali looks forward to a new flexible routine with Kel and their boys.
“It’s been a gradual process and now, I’m ready to really explore the next chapter,
spending time with my family, going away together and being entirely present with
them.”
An incredible athlete, an extraordinary human.
The recipient of countless awards, the champion of boundless events.
Grateful for his career, humble in his achievements.
Although this chapter has a little more to give, Ali’s gratitude is at the forefront for the
final pages.
“I’ve been so lucky with the people that have come into my life, it’s been an absolute
privilege, and I would just like to say thank you.”
Asking for nothing in return, but giving everything he’s got, Ali Day will see out the
2025/26 season leaving a legacy of true grit, devotion and pure magic for those who
dare to dream as big as he did.
“Hopefully I’ve made enough impact on the sport that I can leave it in a better place
for the next person to come along and do it!”
All we can say is, THANK YOU ALI DAY!