Hovell's best previous world result was 11th in China in 2018, with Smith gaining a bronze medal at the same event.
Hovell won his second national title in Westport this year and Smith was runner-up in the women's event.
“I've been going to the gym up to seven times a week, and surfing up to seven times a week to get ready for Puerto Rico,” Hovell said.
“It's been a fairly slow build-up for me due to ongoing recovery from Covid, but I feel ready to go now.”
Smith, who has been based in Mt Maunganui for about a year, has been doing a lot of cardio work in the gym, and running, to increase her fitness levels.
“I've also been surfing as much as I can, so I reckon I'm well prepared for it,” the 20-year-old said.
A fundraiser she ran with Holly Quinn and Amy Spence has paid for her trip.
“I really appreciated that support, and I'm so excited for my first world event since 2018.”
Hovell has had some support too.
He said he was “pretty much” funding the trip himself, but he'd had help from his employers, McFall Fuels, and from the Ngāti Porou Surf Lifesaving Club.
“That help was much appreciated,” Hovell said.
His brother Kiel has been to the San Juan surf breaks, where the titles will be held.
“He's told me the beach and reef breaks there always produce plenty of waves, and they are coming into their winter season now, when there's always sizeable surf.”
Both surfers say they will look to produce some solid surfing and hope to make finals.
They fly out on October 24 for Houston in the US, and then travel down to Puerto Rico. The championship opening ceremony is on October 28. Competition starts the next day and ends on November 6.
