Local surfers go big at Aussie SUP Titles

THE Surf Coast and Bellarine’s best stand-up paddleboarders have landed on the podium at the Australian SUP Titles on Phillip Island.

Torquay’s Emma Webb added another two national awards to her trophy cabinet, going back-to-back in both the 10ft Open Women and O/40 Women’s Longboard SUP divisions.

Webb’s Australian titles tally is now well into double digits across the SUP and Longboard surfing disciplines.

Matt Tackle (Jan Juc) surfed his way to a second and a fourth place in the 10ft Open Men and Open Men divisions respectively, while his father John secured a third in the O/60 10ft SUP.

On the flat water, Susanne Prosser (Wallington) secured a second place in the Open Women’s Marathon Race.

More than 70 athletes from across the cou

ntry competed in the five-day national event, with champions crowned in 18 divisions of SUP surfing and technical racing.

Surfing Victoria contest director Liam Robertson said while conditions were tough, the surfing on show was top notch.

“It was another fantastic event on Phillip Island, and we thoroughly enjoyed having Australia’s best back in Victoria.

“We got some super fun waves. It was windy and challenging at times, but Australia’s best did an amazing job adapting to the conditions and surf breaks we used over the week.”

He congratulated all winners on their efforts, including the local athletes.

“Emma is an incredible surfer, and her results are evident of that! It was a great effort to go back-to-back in the 10ft Open Women and O/40’s Women’s Longboard.

“Matt and John also had a really great event, as did Susanne. We are always thrilled to have them all representing Victoria at these events.”

Overall, Victoria was awarded the state champion title for the event.

For full results, head to liveheats.com/surfingaus