Billy Stairmand puts on the standout performance of Day 1 at the GWM Sydney Surf Pro, posting a near-excellent heat total of 15.20.
Competition is underway at the GWM Sydney Surf Pro presented by Bonsoy, Stop No.2 of the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series.
Opening day saw the completion of the men’s Round of 80. Competitors battled tough conditions with waves in the three-to-five foot range that were affected by strong cross-on-shore winds at North Narrabeen.
“I was a bit unsure about conditions this morning when the event was called on,” Billy admitted. “There are definitely opportunities out there and I love going left so I was glad to get that win. It looks like the rest of the window will offer up some good waves so it felt good to get through that one.”
Billy’s sharp backhand was in sync with the Narrabeen lefts, particularly on his highest-scoring ride where he landed a massive blow-tail re-entry to consolidate his lead.
“I feel really at home here in North Narrabeen. I’ve spent a lot of time here and stay with a local family so I’m feeling comfortable.”
“I feel really at home here in North Narrabeen. I’ve spent a lot of time here and stay with a local family so I’m feeling comfortable.”
Billy’s first Challenger Series (CS) outing on the Gold Coast finished with an early exit. The same fate befell Kehu Butler (Round of 64) and Paige Hareb (Round of 48) on the Goldie.
All three Kiwi surfers will be looking to capitalise on the decent swell hitting Narrabeen this week.
Billy will surf in Heat 5 of the Round of 64 with Kehu in Heat 13. Paige is scheduled to contest Heat 6 in the Round of 48.