Victorian surfing double-header shines at Bells

TORQUAY Boardriders has gone back-to-back in the Victorian Teams Titles for the first time in six years.

The local powerhouse was too strong for its fellow counterparts in three-to-four feet waves at Djarrak/Bells Beach on Sunday.

Led by world qualifying series Xavier Huxtable, Torquay Boardriders looked like the ones to beat throughout the day, winning its first heat in strong fashion to advance straight to the final.

Local compatriot Jan Juc Boardriders also found its way into the final, while Peninsula Surfriders and Phillip Island also had its eyes on the prize.

Torquay started on fire in the final with two strong scores, including a near perfect 9.83 (out of a possible 10) from Huxtable for his lethal attack on a long wave through the Bells bowl.

Jan Juc dropped a 7.00-point ride and a 6.07 to keep itself within striking distance, however Huxtable went back out as the power surfer and locked away a strong score to put it out of reach.

Jan Juc scored second place, while Peninsula Surfriders finished in third and Phillip Island fourth.

Peninsula Surfriders was victorious in the Women’s and Juniors divisions, showcasing its credentials as a breeding ground for star surfers of the future.

It was a starring display from Huxtable, who also took home the open men’s title in round one of the 2024/25 Victorian Open Series on Sunday.

The powerful natural footer scored a plethora of the highest heat totals of the day and carried his momentum into the final to take the event win.

“It was awesome to get the opportunity to compete at Bells again in an open state round,” Huxtable said.

There was an epic turn out for it with lots of top-quality surfers which made for a super fun day. Stoked to find some fun waves on the day and end up getting the win.”

Jan Juc surfer Willis Droomer was second, third went to Peninsula Surfriders talent Joel Wookey and Jan Juc’s Tim Birnie was fourth.

In the open women’s division, Ava Holland was the victor.

The Mornington Peninsula youngster showcased a strong backhand attack on the waves to defeat fellow finalists Sara Hickson, Sarsha Pancic and Lillian Bassed.

For the full results, head to www.liveheats.com/surfingvictoria