Raglan local Jessica Santorik continued her exceptional run of form this weekend at the Rip Curl Pro. Jessica took out the Open Women’s Division, extending her lead in the Export Gold Series in which she remains undefeated.
In Sunday’s final Santorik had to come from behind after finding herself trailing Rosa Thompson (Auck) who opened her account with an 8.50 – the highest in the final. Santorik left her run until her last two waves posting consecutive 8.10 point rides.
“Yeah, far out I am so stoked. I am so tired after that final, I was just lucky to get those good waves at the end” commented Santorik. “I wanted to get the middle size waves but ended but getting the bigger waves that usually go fat. Today they walled up nicely for me out there” added Santorik.
“It is awesome to be undefeated this year, I hadn’t even given it that much thought to be honest, WQS here I come” commented Santorik after being reminded of her summer of dominance.
Santorik is heading to Australia next week to compete at her first ASP WQS event. She will take in two events at Merewether and Margaret River south of Perth before heading back to New Zealand.
Placing second in the final was Rosa Thompson who was the stand out surfer all weekend, while Raglan local Laura Rishworth finished in third place.
Young Gisborne surfer Morehu Roberts broke through the national ranks for the biggest win of his career taking out the Open Men’s Division. Roberts, who many consider as the most naturally talented surfer in New Zealand, fought off fellow Gisborne surfer Jay Quinn in the 25 minute head-to-head final scoring 15.50 to Quinn’s 14.80.
Earlier in the day Quinn took down local surfer Luke Cederman in the first semifinal. Roberts posted the events only perfect ten point ride in his defeat of Chris Malone in the second semifinal.
Photo: Silas/Kiwi Surf Mag
