Harrison “super excited” for 2023 World Junior Championships

BARWON Heads surfer Ellie Harrison is gearing up for her maiden World Junior Surfing Championships next month, with the hope of getting one step closer to her dream of the WSL Championship Tour.

Starting on January 9 at Seaside Reef in San Diego, California, Harrison will take to the water as one of 24 surfers in the women’s field, with only one being crowned the best junior surfer on the planet.

Regional qualifying events throughout 2022 have determined the Junior Championship fields from each country, and the event will mark the first of its nature since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The three-time Australian junior surfing champion and current Australia/Oceania Pro Junior title holder in Harrison said she was incredibly excited to be heading to California in just under two weeks’ time.

“I’m super excited for the WSL World Juniors in January, the waves look very fun over there, so I’m keen to explore the area and see a new place,” Harrison said.

“It’s going to be really great to see all the surfers who have qualified from around the world and meet new people.

“My goal is to bring my best surfing and take it heat by heat.”

Coming off a second-place finish in the Australian Qualifying Series event at URBNSURF in Melbourne, Harrison said she was feeling confident in her ability going into one of the biggest events of her career.

“My last couple of results have given me more competition practice and some vital lessons heading into worlds.

“The World Junior Championship title is one I’ve always wanted, succeeding in that goal would be my biggest achievement so far.

“The big goal of mine has and always will be to compete on the Championship Tour, however I’m just excited for the upcoming years to travel the world, compete and surf and explore new places.”

Winners at the World Junior Surfing Championships will not only take home the huge title but will secure spots on the 2023 WSL Challenger Series, giving them the opportunity to further showcase their talent on a global stage.

For more information, head to worldsurfleague.com