Chat With A Ninja: Janelle Harding
This interview first appeared in the March 2026 edition of the SSG Multisports newsletter.
From Trail Ultra Runner to Ironman Finisher and World Championships Qualifier: Nelly’s Epic Journey
In true Ninja spirit, Nelly Harding has gone from Defence Force triathlete and 100km trail runner to Ironman finisher and 70.3 World Championships qualifier in Taupo. As our 100th member and a proud mum racing alongside her competitive daughter, she brings decades of heart, grit and community love to our swim-focused group at Suttons Beach. Here’s her quick chat on motivation, family milestones and more.
1. How did you first get involved with SSG Multisports, and what keeps you coming back to our swim-focused community at Suttons Beach?
I first got involved by swimming one of your yearly Moreton Bay swims - I remember being alone, and waiting for the swim start, and I then saw the SSG crew, laughing. I started coming along to the open water swims on a Sunday and within a year later, I was an SSG member! I was the 100th member.
2. You've been racing and training with your daughter. What sparked your triathlon passion, and how has sharing it as a family made it special?
I've been doing triathlons since my 20s, I used to compete in the defence force triathlons and I just loved the format. Once I had children I kept swimming and running and moved myself to the gym. I started trail running in my 40s, completing a couple of 50kms races and the night I finished my 100km I thought that is it, Ironman is next. I then joined a club and started training for my first Ironman and completed Port Mac IM in 2022. My first daughter is competitive so she loves the race vibes and atmosphere.
3. From marathons like Sunshine Coast to multisport events, what's your proudest achievement so far?
My proudest achievement so far is...........completing 100km trail race at Glasshouse, that was hard mentally! And then completing my second IM at Port Mac. Ok another proud moment is when I came AG 5th at Port Mac 70.3 and got a spot to the World Championships in Taupo NZ, that was pretty special indeed.
4. Balancing family, work, and training, how do you stay motivated through challenges?
I stay motivated by hanging around like-minded people! If they're training for a 70.3 or IM I'm close by, I love the training and sharing the experience and growth with others, and as a result they become great friends. This is what motivates me the most, the people and the results.
5. Most memorable racer or opponent you've competed against (perhaps a family story or standout SSG moment)?
Hmmm, my most memorable race, I think is Worlds 70.3 in Taupo, 4 SSG members raced and we had a great time, plus everyone was very friendly.
6. Favourite bands or playlists for training? Do you have a go-to song for tough ocean swims or long runs?
Typically if I am training outside I don't listen to music, I love nothing, I'm a music teacher and my weekly noise level is way too high, hence the enjoyment of silence or chats. If I'm on the trainer, it's Slippery When Wet, that's it, nothing else. I may move to Guns and Roses if needed :).
7. Favourite pastime outside triathlons (maybe family adventures or relaxing hobbies)?
I love hiking! The trails are just wonderful, they're so peaceful. Oh and I love skiing with my family, that's a favourite of ours.
8. Claim to fame, besides racing with Evelyn or your consistent podiums?
My claim to fame is coming 5th at Port Mac 70.3, that race was perfect for me, I had goals for each discipline and I achieved them. My best ROTB for sure!
9. Favourite Australian sports star, and why (as a multisport athlete, perhaps an endurance icon)?
I used to love the swimming, Susie O'Neill and Sam Riley, just superstars while I was growing up.
10. Pre-race ritual no one knows about (especially for events you do with your daughter)?
Ha no I am pretty standard, nothing special. There's a bit of rubbish talk the night before, but let's face it, the 17 year old is going to beat me in the water - it's the bike and run where I would get her.
11. Biggest regret in sport, if any, or a lesson learned from a tough race?
Biggest regret - assuming that my nutrition will work, it'll be ok. WRONG. Worst race ever was my race after Worlds, I just assumed I had it. Always work out the carbs, hydration and nothing new on race day -ever!
12. Dream job if not in triathlons
Dream job used to be a ranger in NZ, they walk the hikes and check the paths while also checking passes - who wouldn't want to hike those hills for a job!
13. Favourite quote that keeps you motivated during training or races?
I am grateful, always
14. If you had one wish for SSG Multisports in 2026, what would it be?
Gees, not sure on this one, we do a great job and grow every year.
15. Advice for new SSG members, especially parents or families balancing training like yours?
Get up and do your training, even if you're tired, you will feel better, every time
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