Trials wins send locals back to Bells stage

LOCAL favourites Xavier Huxtable and Ellie Harrison are heading back to the big stage after reclaiming their crowns at the Rip Curl Pro Trials at Bells Beach.

The pair progressed through the Victorian trials over the weekend, earning wildcard spots into the main event and another shot at the world’s best.

It will be the third time both Huxtable and Harrison have competed in the Rip Curl Pro.

Huxtable returns to Bells Beach on the back of his strongest season yet on the Challenger Series.

 

The 23-year-old narrowly missed qualification for the world tour, finishing just seven spots outside the cut.

His result however did guarantee him access to the 2026 Challenger Series.

Huxtable made headlines at last year’s event with a stunning upset over then world number one Italo Ferreira and will again look to make an impact this April.

“Getting the opportunity to mix it with the world’s best is such a privilege,” he said.

“This year I get to do it with some my best mates like George Pittar and Oscar Berry, so it’s fantastic.”

Huxtable said keeping his body and mind right would be the key to performing well in the main event.

 

“I just want to be in a good mindset, and throw everything I have it at it,” he said.

“Everyone surfs amazing, so you’ve got to give it your all and have fun with it.”

Fellow Challenger Series competitor Ellie Harrison has cemented herself as one of the top threats at Bells Beach in only a short timeframe.

Harrison advanced all the way to the quarter-finals in her first attempt at the event in 2024, backing it up last year with a ninth-place finish that included an opening-round win over eventual world champion Molly Picklum.

Her powerful rail work and trademark forehand carve make her particularly suited to the Bells bowl.

 

“I’m so excited to have another opportunity to be up there against the professionals on tour,” Harrison said.

“It means so much for me, especially to do it for a third time.

“I’ve got a bit of pressure on me with those recent results,

but I’m feeling good, am trying to live every day normal and keep having fun.”

The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach is underway.

Tune in via the World Surf League website.