Get ready to be amazed by a surfing story that defies expectations! Two young longboarders have just shaken up the surfing world, achieving something so rare it’s only happened once before. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: Jaxon Willows from Mount Maunganui and Izaro Williamson-Sasia from Taranaki didn’t just win their age groups—they went on to conquer the senior divisions too, claiming a double double at the 2026 National Surfing Championships in Gisborne. This feat, previously accomplished only by Christchurch’s Jack Tyro in 2022, has everyone talking.
In challenging 1.0m conditions on Tuesday evening, these two—aged just 17 and 14—proved that age is just a number. Willows, after surfing four grueling heats in a single day, faced off against longboarding legends like Jordan Griffin, Dylan Barnfield, and Daniel Procter. Griffin, based in Australia, gave him a run for his money, but Willows’ marathon effort paid off with a stunning victory. Meanwhile, Williamson-Sasia wowed the crowd with a flawless right-hander, complete with a clean nose ride and lightning-fast footwork, scoring 6.27 out of 10 and securing the women’s title with a heat total of 10.94.
And this is the part most people miss: these weren’t just any wins—they were part of a larger celebration of surfing talent across 15 divisions, from shortboard to stand-up paddleboard (SUP), kneeboard, bodyboard, and adaptive disciplines. The event, hosted by Gisborne Boardriders Club and Trust Tairāwhiti, is the first of eight national competitions in the Epic Break summer campaign, showcasing surfers from under-14s to over-70s.
But here’s the controversial question: Are these young surfers the future of longboarding, or are they just lucky underdogs? Some argue that their wins are a testament to the evolving face of the sport, while others believe experience still reigns supreme. What do you think? Let’s debate it in the comments!
Other highlights included defending SUP champions Karlos Aarsen and Stella Smith repeating their victories, and Matt Scorringe securing his second senior title with a strategic left-hander approach. In the masters divisions, veterans like Steve “Teddy” Colbert—who last won a national title in 1984—proved that age is no barrier to greatness. Colbert’s win in the over-60s was one of the most celebrated moments, capping a 42-year wait for another national title.
With nearly 400 entries across 28 divisions, the event is a testament to New Zealand’s thriving surfing community. Special awards, like the Peter Byers Trophy for outstanding performance, add extra prestige. The competition continues daily from 8am to 5pm, with the open men’s and women’s finals set for January 17. Will we see more upsets, or will experience prevail? Stay tuned—this is one wave you won’t want to miss!
