Claudia Slaven started training at Kurrawa earlier than ever and the decision is already reaping rewards

Claudia Slaven’s decision to start summer training earlier than ever is already paying dividends.

CLAUDIA Slaven’s decision to start summer training earlier than ever is already paying dividends.

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A 16-week block of training starting in June saw the aspiring Kurrawa ironwoman take out the open ironwoman final at Oceans 38 a few weeks ago, beating Nutri-Grain series athletes in the process.

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“It was definitely a confidence booster,” Slaven said.

“I haven’t been up there in iron before and we haven’t had waves like that before so it was great to get a win in those sort of conditions.

“This is the fittest I’ve ever been this early in the season.”

Claudia Slaven after winning round four of the Ocean 6 swim series last summer. Picture supplied.

Inspiring the 20-year-olds gruelling off-season preparation was the chance to compete in her first long course Coolangatta Gold as part of the elite women’s field.

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“I was more consistent at training than I’ve ever been,” she said.

“Endurance racing isn’t really my strength so I just wanted to finish for myself.

“I put in a lot of hours, like on Wednesday’s and Sunday’s we did sessions that were over three hours long so I had to work on the mental side as well.

“I just couldn’t wait to cross the finish line because the run leg was always going to be the hardest for me because I don’t like running.”

Claudia Slaven competing at the Coolangatta Gold in October. Picture: Harvpix

After finishing third in last summer’s Ocean6 swim series, Slaven said her Summer of Surf carnival focus would shift towards achieving similar results in iron racing.

“I definitely like swimming more so I do focus on that but I also want improve my board and ski legs,” she said.

“I’m hoping to make every iron final.”

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Summer of Surf finals iron heats kick off this afternoon at Burleigh Beach.