Jay Quinn flying high at the Gizzy Champs. The veteran star's presence inspired the younger surfers to step up to compete alongside him in the Open Men's division, which he won. Photo / Derek Fryer
Jay Quinn flying high at the Gizzy Champs. The veteran star's presence inspired the younger surfers to step up to compete alongside him in the Open Men's division, which he won. Photo / Derek Fryer
The annual Gisborne Surfing Championships delivered an action-packed day that brought together competitors from Under-12s through to Over-60s.
The surfers were met with fast-breaking waves throughout the Gisborne Boardriders Club-hosted event at the Creeks surf break at Makorori Beach.
“It was testing even the most experienced riders,” Boardriders spokeswoman AnneleenVan Damme said.
“The waves proved particularly demanding for the younger competitors, who showed resilience and determination taking on the conditions.”
“Overall, it was a celebration of the region’s thriving surf culture, with strong participation mainly across the younger divisions and an impressive display of talent emerging from the junior ranks.”
She was joined on the U14 podium by Summer Hovell, Scarlett King and Grace Ross, while Nell Alder and Macy Warren were second and third respectively in the U16 girls.
Macy Warren eyes up the section of wave ahead of her in conditions that proved challenging at times, particularly for the younger riders. Photo / Derek Fryer
“Roy Thomas secured victory in the Under-14 boys with Waylon Lynch, Connall McCavana and Felix Tong rounding out the final,” Van Damme said.
In the U16 boys’ division, Archie Alder was first, followed by Harry McFarlane, Sol Bevins and Waylon Lynch.
Van Damme said the Under-18 divisions continued to highlight the strength of Gisborne’s talent.
“Abbie Cook won the Under-18 girls’ division from Charlotte McDiarmid, Brooke Matthews and Macy Warren.
“Tobias Smith claimed his first Under-18 boys’ title, with Harry McFarlane, Archie Alder and James Lalla finishing close behind.”
Charlotte McDiarmid won the Open Women’s division from Brooke Matthews, Abbie Cook and Van Damme.
“The Open Men’s division saw an outstanding performance from [former world junior champion and World Qualifying Series professional] Jay Quinn, who claimed victory over Max Phillips, Ollie Tong and Jaxon Pardoe,” Van Damme said.
“Quinn’s presence was particularly inspiring for the younger surfers, encouraging many to step up and compete in the Open Men’s division alongside him – an opportunity that highlighted both the depth of talent and the supportive culture within the local surf community.”
Tobias Smith executing a nice re-entry during the championships at the Creeks break at Makorori. Photo / Derek Fryer
The Over-50s division was won by James Fowell, with Sam Phillips second and Malcolm McGregor third.
National champion Teddy Colbert earned top honours in the Over-60s, ahead of Richard Page and Michael Everard Yukich.
Event organisers praised the commitment of all competitors who took part, emphasising the “Gizzy Champs” were as much about inspiration and community as about results.
“The success of the event was made possible thanks to the incredible support of Gisborne’s passionate surf community, whose enthusiasm continues to drive the sport forward in the region,” Van Damme said.
