In a thrilling display of talent, Mount Maunganui's Jaxon Willows and Taranaki's Izaro Williamson-Sasia have achieved an extraordinary feat at the 2026 National Surfing Championships, leaving the greats in awe. But what makes this victory so remarkable?
The Young Surfers' Triumph:
Willows and Williamson-Sasia, aged 17 and 14, shocked the surfing world by winning both the senior and junior longboarding divisions. This achievement is so rare that it has only been done once before, by Jack Tyro in 2022. But these young talents didn't stop there. They went on to win four titles in total, an incredible accomplishment!
The Senior Division Upset:
The senior division saw Willows face off against longboarding veterans in a marathon effort, surfing four heats in one day. He held his own against Australian Jordan Griffin, who managed to keep up but ultimately finished second. Ex-champions Dylan Barnfield and Daniel Procter, both from Gisborne, had to settle for third and fourth places, respectively. And here's where it gets interesting: Barnfield and Procter are local legends, yet these young surfers stole the show.
A Dominant Performance:
Williamson-Sasia's victory in the women's division was equally impressive. She scored an impressive 6.27 out of 10 with a clean nose ride and swift footwork, leaving Ariana Walker in second place. This win is a testament to her skill and determination, as she dominated the waves with grace and power.
A Day of Champions:
The championships witnessed a total of 15 titles awarded, with Willows and Williamson-Sasia's four wins being the highlight. The day also saw repeat victories for stand-up paddleboard champions Karlos Aarsen and Stella Smith, who defended their titles with style. And the surprises didn't end there...
The Veteran's Return:
In a heartwarming comeback, Steve 'Teddy' Colbert claimed the over-60s title, his first national win since 1984. After 42 years, Colbert's victory is a testament to his enduring passion and skill. This win is sure to inspire surfers of all ages.
A Week of Surfing Excellence:
The event, hosted by Gisborne Boardriders Club, is just the beginning of an eight-part national series, showcasing the best of New Zealand's surfing talent. With over 400 entries across various disciplines, the competition is fierce. And with special awards like the Peter Byers Trophy for the week's most outstanding performance, the stakes are high.
Controversy and Comment:
But what do you think? Is it fair to say that these young surfers have surpassed the greats? Or is it too soon to make such bold claims? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's celebrate the incredible talent on display at this year's National Surfing Championships!
