Surfing: Hansen climbs rankings

Gisborne surfer Bobby Hansen has improved to 30th on the rankings after finishing third in a four-star event in France yesterday.

Hansen was placed behind American Patrick Gudaskas and Dayan Neve, of Australia, in the final of the world qualifying series Vendee Pro at La Sauzaie.

Compatriots Maz Quinn finished 17th and Matt Scorringe 65th.

It represented Hansen's best result in his maiden season on the WQS tour.

It earned him 1095 rating points and lifted him to 30th on the rankings.

The three New Zealanders now travel to Thurso, Scotland, for the five-star O'Neill Highland Open.