BALINEWS.ID – Local expertise shone brightly today as Westen Hirst from Lakey Peak and Jasmine Studer from Kuta clinched victories at Indonesia’s prestigious Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang amidst stellar surfing conditions. Both aged just 16, they showcased remarkable skill and determination throughout the competition.
The event, renowned for its challenging surf conditions, saw perfectly groomed 6ft+ waves all day, providing a stage for extraordinary performances by Indonesia’s top surfers and global free surfing icons.
Competitors rushed from around the world with just days’ notice when the event was given the green light to commence on Sunday. Among them were Mason Ho, Ivan Florence, Tosh Tudor, Balaram Stack, alongside Indonesia’s own surfing legends.
In the women’s final, Jasmine Studer dominated with a flawless performance, earning a perfect 10 and an 8.17 to secure her victory. Willow Hardy put up a strong fight with a 9 and 8.33, but couldn’t match Studer’s outstanding scores. The conditions delivered exceptional tube rides, showcasing some of the best female tuberiding in recent memory.
On the men’s side, Westen Hirst started strong with a stunning 9.9 double-barrel in the final. Despite challenges from Ivan Florence and Tosh Tudor, Hirst maintained his lead, eventually sealing his victory with a 7.33 score in the closing minutes. His win echoes the youthful triumph of Erin Brooks in past Rip Curl Cups.
Highlights included Ivan Florence’s wizardry in the tubes and Ketut Agus’s impressive performance, culminating in a memorable 9.8 ride. Hirst not only claimed victory but also achieved the highest combined qualifying score of the day, underscoring his dominance throughout the event.
Reflecting on his win, Hirst expressed, “I’ve grown up surfing Padang since I was a kid. To win The Rip Curl Cup here, it’s just unbelievable.”
In summary, the day was marked by historic achievements and unforgettable moments, solidifying Indonesia’s bright future in global surfing.
Event Results
Men’s Final:
- Westen Hirst (INA) 18.57
- Tosh Tudor (USA) 14.97
- Ketut Agus (INA) 13.70
- Ivan Florence (HAW) 5.33
Women’s Final:
- Jasmine Studer (INA) 18.17
- Willow Hardy (AUS) 17.33
- Kya Heuer (INA) 13.27
- Ziggy McKenzie (AUS) 10.00
About Rip Curl
Founded in Torquay, Australia, in 1969, Rip Curl remains dedicated to surfers, providing top products, running premier events, supporting athletes, and maintaining exceptional customer service. (*)
