Harrison helps Australia win surfing gold

BARWON Heads surfer Ellie Harrison has helped Australia secure its first open team gold medal surf at the ISA World Surfing Games since 2011.

Her 5th place finish in the semi-finals at La Bocana and El Sunzal pulled the country over the line in the overall rankings to oust Peru, Spain and France for top honours.

The Australia Irukandjis’ win in El Salvador ended more than a decade of close calls, including four team silver medals since the team’s last gold, and signals the start of a new golden era for Australian surfing.

It was Australia’s sixth team gold medal in ISA World Surfing Games history, and its 16th overall team medal, reinforcing Australia’s status as the most successful nation in the event’s history.

Harrison’s strong performance was backed up by a gold medal from 19-year-old Dane Henry and bronze medals from Sally Fitzgibbons and Morgan Cibilic.

Team Australia coach Adam Dufner reflected on the collaborative team atmosphere of the Irukundjis.

“It has been a privilege and an honour to coach and support this amazing team of incredibly talented athletes and wonderful young individuals. This event has been a highlight of my coaching career.”

Australian captain Sally Fitzgibbons echoed his excitement.

“Our team really connected through our values of how much it means to us to represent our nation,” she said.

“Every individual athlete, coach and staff member woke up every day ready to take on the challenge.

“Out of every ISA medal I’ve won, this is the one that stands out. I couldn’t be prouder, and this memory will stay with me forever.”