When the seven-time women’s world champion cliff diver, one of the most decorated cliff diving pros in the world, is an Aussie, it stands to reason that their home country should host the sport’s biggest annual event. Which is exactly the reason why Sydney Harbour will be transformed into an adrenaline-junkie haven from November 8.
Homegrown diving star, Rhiannan Iffland, will be returning home to an anticipated 50,000 person crowd in the Royal Botanic Garden after taking out a King Kahekili trophy earlier this year in Türkiye.
If there’s one thing Aussie spectators know how to do, it’s how to get behind one of our hometown heroes with enough whoops and whistles to carry them to victory.
The divers will be hurling themselves at speeds of 85 kilometres an hour into the waters of Sydney Harbour. Since the only cliffs high enough to suit the event look out of the headland waters that are not only choppy but active shipping lanes, a purpose-built platform will be constructed by the waters off Bennelong Point, in view of both the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. If you want to get in on the action, spectating is free and you can nab a scenic spot at the Botanic Gardens nearby.
Iffland shared her excitement at the chance to show the folks back home why she’s the leading female cliff diver in the world. “I’m extremely proud of my journey so far and the final being held in Sydney has kept me motivated all season long,' she said. "I can’t wait to put on the best show I can for friends, family and fans."
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