Surfers representing Australia at this year’s Olympics will go by the name Irukandjis, the big poison spear, after the national team’s new identity was unveiled on Wednesday.
Led by Stephanie Gilmore, the Olympic surf team collaborated on the name, which also covers other genres of representational surfing including youth, seniors, longboard, big wave and paddle stand up.
It follows the names of national teams inspired by marine life such as the Dolphins, Sharks and Stingers.
The spear is named after the country of Irrukandji, a narrow strip of land on the Queensland coast between Cairns and Port Douglas, and the locals of Yirrganydji blessed Surfing Australia for the use of the name.
Soli Bailey, a world touring competitor who is now back in the qualifying series, was one of the main drivers behind the campaign, and will include the likes of Sally Fitzgibbons and Julian Wilson competes at the first Olympic event in Japan later this year. under the new branding.
The tiny Irukandji – which measures just one cubic centimeter – is a species of box seawater found in northern Australian waters. His sting causes symptoms that can lead to death.
“I really wanted us to find an awesome name for the team that embodied Australian indigenous culture,” said Gilmore, a WSL seven-time champion. “Irukandji is a perfect fit for our team as we strive to be ‘deadly in the water’ against our competitors at the Tokyo Olympics. ”
The branding and costume of the new team was developed in collaboration with native artist Jasmine Craciun, who was inspired by her ancestors, the Barkindji people.
“The uniform organic shapes represent a moving movement within the water and mimic light striking the ocean when viewed from below,” read a Surfing Australia statement.
Australia has a strong indigenous surf culture, and Shakira Westdorp, the four-time world champion, is considered one of the greatest female SUP athletes of all time.
While Bailey was the last Native surfer to compete at the top of the 2019 World Tour, a number of promising youngsters are coming through the ranks.
“Our name and identity are powerful forces,” said Surfing Australia chairman and seven-time world champion Layne Beachley. “As surfing enters the Olympics for the first time and is enjoyed by people all over the world, it was time to get to know our team. in Australia we can all join him. ”
Surfing is appearing at the Tokyo Olympics delay, scheduled for July and August this year, for the first time.