The final six champions of the 2024 State Junior Surfing Titles have been crowned, with the Capes region boasting significant representation.
The thrilling conclusion of the three-day event took place at Geraldton’s Flat Rocks on Sunday, drawing nearly 100 of Western Australia’s top junior surfers. The event featured exceptional conditions, described by Surfing WA events manager Justin Majeks as an “unforgettable finale.”
Dunsborough’s Maverick Wilson emerged victorious in the under-18 boys’ division, while Ruby Berry from Margaret River secured the title of under-18 girls’ State champion. Margaret River’s Okie Fraser, based on accumulated points, was confirmed as the 2024 under-18 boys champion.
Additional podium finishes included Dunsborough’s Ollie Holmes, who triumphed in the micro-groms under-12s, and Cruz Uros, who won the under-16 boys’ division. Margaret River’s Olive Hardy claimed the under-16 girls’ trophy, and Ily Fraser took home the title for the under-14 girls.
Contenders were greeted with clean and consistent three to four-foot surf and excellent weather, adding to the excitement of the final round. Champions from the earlier rounds of the annual contest were also celebrated.
“I’d like to congratulate our newly crowned junior State champions, as well as our divisional winners and finalists, for an exciting title race in 2024,” Majeks said. “The WA Junior Surfing Titles have showcased the depth of talent in WA and their ability to adapt to different locations and conditions, which will be crucial for success at the nationals.”
Fraser expressed his joy at winning the title and looked forward to competing against the best surfers from across the country later this year. “It’s been my goal to win the title this year,” he said. “The boys all surf so well, and the waves have been pumping, so I’m stoked to get some good waves.”
Despite coming in second to Wilson in a close call, Fraser’s consistent performance throughout the competition secured his championship title. Berry, who had just returned from competitive surfing on the east coast, was delighted to be back in Western Australian waters. “It’s nice to be surfing over reef and in waves with real power and push,” she said. “This is my final year in the Juniors, and to win the State title means a lot to me. I can’t wait for the National Titles and want to thank my mum and dad for all their support.”
In the under-16 division, Dunsborough’s Kade Martin performed admirably but was edged out on championship points by Uros.
The State Junior Surfing Titles have once again highlighted the incredible talent and dedication of Western Australia’s young surfers, setting the stage for a promising future in the sport.
related topics:
