Piccolo Clemente (PER)
Power and poise… on the rail, and on the nose. China delivered again, and we didn’t have to wait long for the expected swell to arrive. The left-hand reef point of Riyue Bay, Hainan Island, China was again the venue for the crowning of the WSL World Longboard Champion.
A soulful embrace of competitors and friends.
Nelson III Ahina (HAW) embracing the reigning world champion Harley Ingleby (AUS) after defeating him in Rd 3.
A father’s proud embrace.
Ben Skinner (GBR) faced a run away freight train in Piccolo Clemente in Semi Final 2. Despite posting a perfect 10, Ben was defeated by Piccolo Clemente (PER) with an 18.44.
Piccolo Clemente (PER)
Piccolo consistently posted the highest scores of the entire event. Rd 1 (19.83); Rd 2 (18.50); Rd 3 (17.10); Qtr final (19.50); Semi Final (18.44); and Final (18.30) defeating Taylor Jensen (USA) (17.70). This was certainly a surfing exhibition (to say the least) of excellent scores.
Piccolo Clemente (PER)
The Women
Youngest ever Women’s World Longboard Champion.
Youth and skill… Grace and flow. The Women’s title saw Kelia Moniz exit the draw early due to injury. Seemingly playing into the hands of Chelsea Williams, the current world champion. However, quietly going about her business (and just stoked to make into the next round with each heat win) was Southern Cali girl, Rachael Tilly. Slowly but surely Rachael conquered everyone in her path, including experienced campaigner Crystal Dzigas Walsh, in the final. Crystal was on a roll after winning in Taiwan, but Rachael’s confidence was through the roof.
Seeing Rachel win was a great highlight of the Women’s Championship. She had dreamed of being the world champ since she was 6 years old, and now the 17 year old high school student has been crowned as the youngest Women’s World Longboard Champion ever. I wonder how many young girls will dream and aspire to be like Rachael now? Congrats!
Rachael Tilly (USA) Womans’ World Longboard Champion 2015
Rachael Tilly (USA)
What do you do after you win the world title… of course, you Skype Mom.
