Raglan surfer Alani Morse, 15, has secured a wildcard into the upcoming World Surf League event after winning both the Under 20 and Open Women’s titles at the recent Backdoor King and Queen of the Point at Manu Bay.
“I was in tears after that final,” Alani said.
The Backdoor King and Queen of the Point drew a strong local turnout, both in the water and on the Manu Bay hillside, with added interest this year as the event offered wildcard spots into the Championship Tour.
Raglan surfers were well represented across the divisions. Local surfer Kora Cooper made a strong run to the men’s final, finishing third and drawing strong support from the crowd.
The heritage heat was claimed by Raglan local and New Zealand surfing icon Daniel Kereopa who navigated the six person final the best, Kereopa was joined by two-time champion Tom Carroll, famous DJ Dimity Stoyle, Backdoor Surf founder Geoff Hutchison, Luke Cederman and WSL wildcard surfer Billy Stairmand.
Billy has also been confirmed as a wildcard for the New Zealand Pro, marking a long-awaited opportunity to compete at Championship Tour level at his home break.
“This is crazy and really surreal for me, and I’ve been pretty emotional since getting the news.”
“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.” Billy said.
Taranaki’s Tom Butland claimed the men’s title and will join Alani and Billy in the New Zealand Pro, bringing the total number of Kiwi surfers in the draw to three.
The New Zealand Pro runs from May 15 to 25 at Manu Bay, with local surfers set to feature alongside the world’s best.