Ali Day has retired a happy man after winning a barely believable 11th Coolangatta Gold on the weekend to sign off from the elite ironman ranks in perfect style.

The former Kiama Surf Life Saving Club nipper has rewritten the record books to become one of the most decorated and admired athletes in the history of the sport.

Over a career spanning more than 15 years, Day became the first ironman to win the three major titles in the same season – Coolangatta Gold, Iron Series and Australian Championships.

This year’s Coolangatta Gold was shortened but Day yet again blitzed the opposition to win in a time of two hours, 23 minutes and 39 seconds to finish 53 seconds ahead of Northcliffe rival Matt Bevilacqua and Cory Taylor, who was a further 26 seconds behind his training partner.

“It’s so good – that’s probably one of the first times I had doubts coming into it,” Day conceded.

“I felt like Bevy was coming home like a freight train. I’m just counting my lucky stars that I got away with another one.

“Obviously, with the 40km race you’re in rhythm the whole time and with the shorter race, running that soft sand was brutal.

“You just never get in the flow. I knew that if I could just keep somewhat of a barrier, I was going to be OK. Bevy, CT - they were chasing me that whole time and I was holding on for dear life in that last run leg.”

Day removed any doubts that he would go around again next time.

“That is 100% the last time I’ll do this race,” he said.

“It was a huge challenge. I wanted to tell myself after last year that I wouldn’t come back and do it. But at the same time, I get to live this incredible life, I have an incredible family and an incredible support network, sponsors.

“I still knew in the back of my mind I had one more in me and I’m so glad I was able to win this one.”

Day led by 70 seconds coming into the final run leg and Bevilacqua looked to be finishing the stronger but the undisputed champion was too strong.

The Coolangatta Gold has a new female champion with 24-year-old Electra Outram from Sunshine Beach claiming her first major title.

Before taking part in his final event, Day was inducted into the Surf Life Saving Australia Hall of Fame, recognising his extraordinary career defined by excellence, resilience, and contribution to the surf life saving movement.

Ali crosses the finish line. Photo: Surf Life Saving Australia

His career accolades include:

10x Coolangatta Gold Champion (a record unmatched in history)

5x Nutri-Grain Ironman Series Champion with 22 race wins

4x Australian Ironman Champion

World Ironman Champion

4x Queensland Open Ironman Champion

Australian and state representative

“You never start your career to get awards or have this recognition, you want to make the Iron Series, I wanted to win the Gold, you want to be a professional and get the most out of yourself for as long as you could,” Day said.

“I’ve been in the sport since I was eight years, and a professional for 17 years so it’s really special for me, but it’s more special for my circle – my kids, my parents, Kel, my coaches, the clubs and people who have made my career what it is.”

Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said Day “represents everything that Surf Life Saving stands for – courage, commitment, and community.

“His record speaks for itself, but it’s his integrity and passion for giving back that truly set him apart.

“Ali’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a champion who has inspired generations on and off the beach.”