Schools out for surf teen chasing second win in Nutri-Grain ironwoman

SHE’S had her head down buried in text books and exams but there is no chance schoolgirl ironwoman Jemma Smith will be flying under the radar in the Nutri-Grain series on Sunday.

Umina’s Jemma Smith, centre, with second placegetter Georgia Miller, left, and third placegetter Lizzie Wellborn, right.

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SHE’S had her head down buried in text books and exams but there is no chance schoolgirl ironwoman Jemma Smith will be flying under the radar when she chases her second win of the Nutri-Grain series on Sunday - if she’s on the start line that is.

The 18-year-old surf sensation from Umina on the NSW Central Coast is hoping to celebrate finishing her HSC exams with success in the second round of the Ocean 6 and Nutri-Grain series at Coolum on the weekend.

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Smith stunned her older and more experienced rivals when she took a break from study to contest — and win — the opening leg of the Nutri-Grain series last month.

“This time I will be able to put all my focus into it,’’ said Smith, who was studying for her exams between races in round one.

Umina's Jemma Smith in the limelights after the biggest win of her career. Pic: Troy Snook.

“I’ve been able to up my training because my exams are over.

“I was able to fly under the radar a bit in round one but I guess now, they will be looking at me a bit more this time.’’

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Jemma Smith edged out Newport's Georgia Miller to win her first Nutri-Grain Ironwoman crown.

But despite leading home a NSW cleansweep of the podium in a major upset in the opening round of the Nutri-Grain series, Smith must still qualify to race Sunday’s second leg in heats on Saturday.

Only the top six finishers from last year’s women’s and men’s series automatically qualify for the Nutri-Grain racing, with both Smith and men’s round one winner TJ Hendy, son of surf legend Trevor, vying for one of 14 spots still up for grabs during the preliminary racing on Saturday.

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“You just have to go to the line and put your best foot forward every time you race,’’ said an unfazed Smith.

Coolangatta Gold winners Ali Day and Courtney Hancock are expected to make a mark this weekend with good swell being forecast for the racing.