Get ready for a thrilling tale of surfing excellence! The 2026 NZ Festival of Longboarding has crowned its champions, and what a spectacle it was!
Jaxon Willows, the young surfing sensation from Mount Maunganui, dominated the festival, securing back-to-back wins in both the Men's and Juniors divisions. But here's where it gets controversial... Willows, at just 17 years old, outperformed seasoned veterans with years of experience under their belts. Imagine the confidence and skill it takes to surf against the likes of Matt Newdick, Dylan Barnfield, and Matt Cockayne and come out on top! Willows' performance was nothing short of extraordinary, with a remarkable 17.66-point heat total in the Boys' Division, showcasing his critical nose riding and fancy footwork.
And this is the part most people miss... Te Waiotu Fairlie, or Tologa, joined Willows in the winner's circle, claiming the Women's Division title. Fairlie's journey is an inspiring one, having overcome a challenging year to trust in her abilities and emerge victorious. With a 9.86-point heat total, she left her competitors in the dust, including Jay Ryan, Demi Roberts, and Emma Ryan.
But the festival wasn't just about the young guns. Morgan Bramley took home the Over 50 Men's Division, defeating fellow local Owen Barnes in a thrilling final. Meanwhile, Wyn Hoogerbrugge, a long-time NZ Longboard Series participant, claimed the Over 40 Men's Longboard Division, proving that age is just a number when it comes to surfing prowess.
The Under 18 Girls Longboard Division final was a nail-biter, with the lead changing hands multiple times. In the end, it was Izaro Williamson Sasia who emerged as the National Champion, edging out Emma Lay with a 4.67-point wave ride in the final moments. Lay's performance was impressive, but it just fell short of the required 5.51-point ride for the win.
The New Zealand Longboard Series, comprising six events, showcases the best of longboarding talent across the country. From the National Championships in Gisborne to the Ray White Duke Festival of Surfing, these competitions bring together a diverse range of surfers, from seasoned veterans to up-and-coming groms. It's a celebration of the sport and a testament to the dedication and passion of these athletes.
So, what do you think? Are you inspired by the stories of these surfing stars? Do you agree that age is no barrier to achieving greatness in the water? We'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let's spark a conversation about the beauty of longboarding and the incredible athletes who make it their passion.
