Billy Stairmand is getting his shot to compete on the world’s top surfing tour.
The two-time Olympian, nine-time national champion and World Surf League Challenger Series regular will be in the line-up when the Championship Tour hits Raglan in May.
It’s a dream come true for Stairmand, 36,not only to be offered a wildcard entry by the World Surf League, but for his Championship Tour debut to be on his home turf in Raglan.
“This is crazy and really surreal for me, and I’ve been pretty emotional since getting the news,” Stairmand said.
“I’ve been on the QS [Qualifying Series] and Challenger Series for over 15 years now, knocking on the door of the Championship Tour and have come close a few times. But now, to get that opportunity and for it to be at home, in my backyard and in front of all of my friends, family, community and country, is such a huge honour and privilege.
His wildcard does not impede the other two spots available to local surfers through the King and Queen of the Point competitions, to be held before the event.
The competition is a staple of the New Zealand surfing calendar, and this year is expected to draw a massive line-up with a wildcard position on offer for both the men’s and women’s winners.
This year, the King and Queen of the Point brackets are only open to New Zealand citizens, ensuring two Kiwi winners join the Championship Tour fields.
Three Kiwis in the water across the two competitions will be the most a single Championship Tour stop has ever had.
“The Championship Tour coming to New Zealand is such a huge opportunity for everyone, not only to compete for a spot in the main event but to see the world’s best up close and in waves they get to surf,” Stairmand said.
“That does so much for a young aspiring surfer, so this is such a big deal for all New Zealanders. It’s really exciting that there will be three Kiwis in the event, and this trials event will be a big one.
“Raglan is a beautiful little town with amazing waves, so I’m so stoked to see the world’s best get to experience this place, as well as for all of the kids to meet their heroes and see the world’s best surfing go down in New Zealand.
“It’s going to be an amazing experience for all of the community, and I can’t wait.”
Christopher Reive joined the Herald sports team in 2017, bringing the same versatility to his coverage as he does to his sports viewing habits.
