Surphang Magazine Issue 44

Surphang Magazine Issue 44

Proudly presents

The Pro Show Kanoa's caned it!

Champ Chats Crierevelation

Sheldon Shines!

Twenty 15 Talent

Champions of the League All Amped Up!

Surphang Magazine

01 - SM

'On Top of the World!'

Unbelievably, we've reached the end of another year and what a year it's been. We could of course talk about the Brazilian storm sweeping through the sport, of near shark attacks in top level competitions but no, we won't. For us, Supporting Upcoming Rider Potential Here And Now Globally means the only topic conversation has to be the grom we sat down with and interviewed just over a year ago who has just made it on Tour – yes, congratulations Kanoa Igarashi!

Kanoa Igarashi really has caned it on the competition scene this year!

Photo: John Philpotts SM - 02

03 - SM

Surphang Magazine

Magazine Editor: Stuart Gaston Contributing Photographers: Leroy Bellet, Adrian Bort, Gones Diaz, Mario Entero, Kim Gillick, John F Jackson, Gary Lightfoot, Shayne Nienaber, Sam Moody, Shutter Pat, John Philpotts, Pete Singlehurst, Gunar Steinert, & Chuck@Surf-Shot.com Staff Photographer: Stuart Gaston

Send any photographic submissions for future issues of the magazine to: surphangmagazine@ymail.com

Cover Shot: Air time for Andy Criere!

Photo: Mario Entero

Seth Moniz made his mark once again in 2015!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

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ThisIssue'sFeatures

The Pro Show Champ Chats Surphalosophy Kanoa's Caned It!

Crierevelation

First up, it's Kanoa Igarashi who has caned the competition to finish in the top 10 – now it's time to take on the Tour!

Former French Junior Champion, Andy Criere has taken the QS by storm so we asked Andy to reveal the secrets to his recent success!

05 - SM

Sheldon Shines!

Sheldon Simkus has been tearing apart the Gold Coast this year so let us take you down under to see this future surfing star shine!

ThisIssue

Twenty 15 Talent

Champions of the League

All Amped Up!

Here's our pick of four of the most exciting upcoming surfers from around the globe who have made their mark this past year!

We take a look at the last year of Under 20 Pro Junior talent who have all taken a win on this first year of the World Surfing League!

And now winter's here, we're checking out what's hot in this year's wetties! This time we're 'All Amped Up' thanks to ION!

Andy Criere putting his stamp on proeedings!

Photo: Mario Entero

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Welcome to

The Pro Show Kanoa's caned it!

Photos: John Philpotts; Words: Stu Gaston

07 - SM Kanoa Igarashi keeping his eye on the prize!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow Well he's only gone and done it! Yes, Kanoa Igarashi has gone up against the world's best surfers and come out in the top ten making it onto the Tour for 2016! So having managed to catch up with the man himself this time last year to find out how he felt then about the year ahead, we thought we'd now look back over his past 12 months...

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Kanoa's Caned It!

09 - SM Kanoa Igarashi carving up his home break, Huntington!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow

Name: Kanoa Igarashi Age: 18 Nickname: Igar Years surfing: 15 Where you live: Huntington Beach, California Sponsors: Quiksilver, Red Bull, Oakley, CI Surfboard, O&E, Sex Wax, Jacks Local break/s: Huntington Favourite surfer?

Gabriel Medina, Nat Young, Matt Banting Favourite place to surf?

Kirra, Australia Favourite surf movie?

Black & White Favourite surf trick?

Barrel Favourite board?

CI Rookie 5'10” 18 ¼ by 2 ¼

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Kanoa's Caned It!

11 - SM Kanoa Igarashi ignites Huntington with his powerful surfing!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow It was clear from the start of his year that Kanoa meant business.

It began down under in Manly where he took his first victory of 2015 in the Pro Junior at the Hurley Australian Open.

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Kanoa's Caned It!

13 - SM Kanoa Igarashi pointing in the right direction!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow The first six months of 2015 then followed a similar pattern to the previous year with only a second place finish at the Ron Jon Vans Junior Pro at Coco Beach in March and no notable QS results to speak of. Kanoa obviously pacing himself.

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Kanoa's Caned It!

15 - SM Kanoa Igarashi kicking out quite a fan of spray!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow Then with another win at the Los Cabos Open of Surf at the start of June, Kanoa once again found his competitive rhythm and before long he was making some more notable results on the QS too – a 5th place finish at the Ballito Pro, followed by two 3rd places at the Murusaki Shonan Open in Japan and then the prestigious Vans US Open of Surfing, held at his home break of Huntington. But more importantly Kanoa now started to make his way up the rankings!

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Kanoa's Caned It!

17 - SM Kanoa Igarashi bang on time to take on the Tour!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow It was though in the middle of August that Kanoa finally began to really cane his competition when he took his first QS win of the 2015 season at the Vans Pro in Virginia.

With this key result under his belt, Kanoa was now really in a position to go all the way and head for the top of those all important rankings!

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Kanoa's Caned It!

19 - SM Kanoa Igarashi focused on fulfilling his dream!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow Meanwhile a Quarter Finals finish at the Pro Junior of that same Vans Pro in Virginia had been enough to see Kanoa take the WSL North American Pro Junior Champion title and this alone was enough to fire his competitive spirit and see him fuel up ready to take on the final few QS contests of the season and reach a top ten spot that he had always dreamed of!

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Kanoa's Caned It!

21 - SM Kanoa Igarashi caning another lip!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow And so Kanoa now headed to South America to take on his very own Brazilian storm. He began with a 5th place finish at the Mahalo Surf Eco Festival in Iticare and then he followed this up with his second QS win of the season at the Red Nose Pro in Florianopolis and so clinched the vital points that ne needed!

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23 - SM Kanoa Igarashi igniting a sunset surf!

Photo: John Philpotts

TheProShow Having followed the progress of Kanoa Igarashi since he was a grom tearing apart Huntington, nothing gives us greater joy than to finally see him fulflll his dreams and make it onto the Tour in 2016.

And one thing's for sure, Kanoa will no doubt continue to cane his competition and reach his ultimate dream that he shared with us when he spoke to him just over a year ago –“to be in the running for a World Title and to win as many World Titles as possible!”

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Champ Chats Crierevelation Photos: Mario Entero & Stu Gaston Words: Stu Gaston

25 - SM Andy Criere takes to the air!

Photo: Mario Entero

ChampChats Former French Junior Champion, Andy Criere has made the step up from the Pro Junior to the QS this year and he too has taken it all by storm so we asked Andy to reveal the secrets to his recent success...

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Crierevelation

27 - SM Andy Criere creates precision timing!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

Name: Andy Criere Age: 20 Nickname: AC Years surfing: 10 Where you live: Hendaye, France Sponsors: ION Action, Pukas Surfboards, FCS Local break/s: Hendaye Favourite surfer?

Mick Fanning Favourite place to surf?

San Juan, Lanzarote Favourite surf movie?

Trilogy Favourite surf trick?

Barrel Favourite board?

TAZ, Pukas 5'11 x 18 5/8 x 2 5/16

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Crierevelation Now it's been two years since we last spoke to you Andy, and you've still been ripping as hard as ever in that time!

Since becoming Under 18 French Junior Champion, you've moved seemlessly onto the WSL QS series with some amazing results though making the final at the WSL Pro at Anglet in August must have been a highlight. So talk us through that contest and the highs and lows that led to your best QS result so far?

The QS stops are very intense as all of us want to win but only one finally does‌ I believe that being consistant with high scoring heats shows you are on the right path. Sometimes a contest starts and everything seems to work.

That's what happened in Anglet. I knew that kind of opportunity doesn't come often, so I gave everything to go as far as possible‌ Even if I finished second behind Bino Lopes that was a man on man final I will remember‌

29 - SM Andy Criere takes precision placing seriously!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

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Crierevelation

31 - SM Andy Criere cranks another one off the lip!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

And what about earlier in the year when you had highlights like placing 3rd in the Maui and Sons Arica Pro in Chile where of course you could have gone even further if the event hadn't been cancelled due to a storm. So how's the year been for you over all looking back now?

I'm very positive about this year which was full of new experiences!

Arica was such a special trip! The wave scared me, but after a couple days surfing there, I started to understand the wave and how to avoid the dangers‌ When the contest started, I was just thinking about making it, keeping it simple and not making stupid mistakes.

My birthday was during the third day of competition and I did one of my most intense barrels in a contest ever – 9.5 points. I kept going until the last day of competition but unfortunately, it couldn't be completed because of the giant swell that destroyed the contest area. That was still another highlight from this past year but for now I need to keep learning from my mistakes and train harder for next year.

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Crierevelation

33 - SM Andy Criere carving it up!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

You've had to overcome some solid surfing from your contenders during all these contests both at home and abroad. First then, how do you rate your surfing peers over in France at the moment?

We are all fighting for the same reasons and by getting “older� everyone works in a different way.

It's always interesting to see the level when the season starts!

So having made such an impressive transition from the Junior ranks to the QS series this year, what's your goal for next year?

Now that the Junior only goes to under 18, I will focus on the QS tour and organise a couple of trips for filming as well as surfing good waves in between contests. In the end, all we want is to spend time in the water!

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Crierevelation

35 - SM Andy Criere cranks one off his bankhand!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

You've also picked up a new head sponsor in ION since we last spoke to you. So how have they helped you reach where you are now?

It's the second year I'm being supported by ION and I'm thankful for the opportunity they are giving me. They have been working with such determination and the improvements on their products show their continual commitment to grow slowly but surely in surfing.

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Crierevelation

37 - SM Andy Criere creates more power in his carves!

Photo: Mario Entero

ChampChats

You've been working with ION to produce some top quality edits focusing on improving key surfing skills such as “Better Carves in 60 seconds�. So have you any more of these or other edits focusing on your freesurfing planned?

I have new projects planned for sure but for now, as contests make me a better surfer, I will try to do both as good as possible.

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Crierevelation

39 - SM Andy Criere keeping focused!

Photo: Mario Entero

ChampChats

Now what about travelling... you must have been to and surfed some amazing places this year?

We are so lucky to travel the world with our surfboards! I have visited many different places and met amazing people. The place that comes to mind the most is Itacare in Brazil. A calm, fun and warm village, if you want to spend a couple of weeks at the beach, it's ideal!

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Crierevelation

41 - SM Andy Criere cranks out another off the top!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

So when and where out of all of them was your best surf session?

The trip that surprised me the most was Martinique. We had ten days of pumping surf in warm, blue water‌ You can't ask for more when you visit a place for the first time!

And what about gnarly wipeouts?

The gnarliest wipeouts and broken boards usually happen at home! I still have sand on my brain from a couple of surfs in Hossegor!

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Crierevelation

43 - SM The power in Andy Criere's surfing really is a revelation!

Photo: Stu Gaston

ChampChats

But what about training? How do you keep on top of fitness and keep on pushing your surfing?

I spend a lot of time surfing compared to the time I spend training but I know I will have to change that to improve the small details that make the difference.

Finally, where do you see yourself in five to ten years time?

I prefer to make the most of each day. We will see where it takes me‌

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Surphalosophy Sheldon Shines!

Photos: Adrian Bort, Shayne Nienaber &; Warwick Martin; Words: Stu Gaston

45 - SM Sheldon Simkus showing that lip who's boss!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy Sheldon Simkus has been tearing apart both the Gold Coast where he lives and the Australian contest scene this year so let us take you down under to see this future surfing star shine!

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Sheldon Shines!

47 - SM Sheldon Simkus setting up with that all important bottom turn!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy

Name: Sheldon Simkus Age: 18 Nickname: Shelly Years surfing: 12 Where you live: Tweed Heads Sponsors: Oakley, DHD, Shapers Fins, Nixon, Fu Wax. Local break/s: Snapper Rocks Favourite surfer?

Mick Fanning Favourite place to surf?

Snapper Favourite surf movie?

Trilogy Favourite surf trick?

Barrels Favourite board?

5’8 DHD Dx1

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Sheldon Shines!

49 - SM

Sheldon Simkus soaring off that lip!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy

What first got you into surfing?

Having my Sister doing Nippers, I was on the beach most weekends and from there it progressed from bodyboard to surfboard.

How big a part does surfing play in your life?

It's my favorite thing in the world to do. It's a huge part of my life.

When and how did you become sponsored?

My first little sponsers came from just surfing in grom comps around home. Then as I got older, I gained a few results and picked up O'Neill last year and more recently Oakley this year.

Who in surfing inspires you most?

I'd have to mention Mick Fanning again. The way he held himself in 2013 at Pipe to win his 3rd World Title was incredible.

What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why?

To be honest, I enjoy both a lot. I love surfing in comps and trying to win but also I just love travelling and trying to get perfect waves.

They are both so different but in the end so satisfying.

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Sheldon Shines!

51 - SM Sheldon Simkus working that right for all it's worth!

Photo: Warwick Martin

surphalosophy

Now the past year has seen you performing consistently well, earning yourself a top 10 finish on the WSL Pro Junior ranking after two semi-final finishes back at the Australian Open Pro Junior and the Hunter Business Boardriders Pro Junior. So talk us through those contests and the highs and lows that lead to your results?

That was a really fun week for me.

Getting two thirds back too back was a good confidence boaster.

You've also been storming to success in the QS events this summer with a quarterfinals finish at the Komune Pro in Bali. So how does it compare stepping up from the Pro Junior to the QS events?

After WSL announced that the Pro junior age bracket was getting changed from 20 and under to Under 18, I went from having 3 years doing the Juniors to it now being my last year. So, I started entering a few 1,000 rated QS events to gain a few spots going into 2016. It's fun surfing waves like Keramas in a comp and versing older surfers. It's a good challenge.

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Sheldon Shines!

53 - SM Sheldon Simkus power carving!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy

You had to overcome some solid surfing from your contenders. How do you rate your surfing peers in Australia at the moment then?

The Junior surfers in Australia are really good. Most of them are good comp surfers and have their heads switched on.

So which of them did you least want to be drawn up against in a heat and why?

I think Jacob Wilcox is a tough draw. Good comp surfer!

Now you've had various great results recently, so what goes down as your best victory to date?

Winning Snapper Rocks Open Club Championship.

What about training then? How do you keep on top of fitness and keep on pushing your surfing?

I train down at the Surfing Australia High Performance center.

The facility down there is world class.

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Sheldon Shines!

55 - SM Sheldon Simkus certainly gets to grip with those lips!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy So you're from the Gold Coast with some iconic breaks like Snapper Rocks right on your doorstep. How do those classic spots compare to others you've surfed around the world?

Having waves like Snapper right here is amazing. It's definitely shaped me into the surfer I am today. In saying that it's a bummer going to other spots that aren't as good.

And where else around the world have you been lucky enough to surf so far?

I enjoy surfing in Indo and Hawaii a lot. Both spots are amazing.

So when and where has your best surf session been then?

This year I was in Indo when one of the larger swells for the last couple of years hit. I was at Ht's and it was solid 6-8ft with some larger roll ins. Just Kai Hing and myself out. It was an incredible day. One session I'll never forget.

And what's the worst wipeout of your life so far?

Ht's in Indo. Had my back grated on the reef.

You've obviously travelled to and surfed some amazing spots around the world! So where's left? Where do you still want to travel to and surf?

I've been to the Mentawaiis twice but still haven't surfed Macaronis or Greenbush. One day.

“It was an incredible day.

One session I'll never forget.�

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Sheldon Shines!

57 - SM Sheldon Simkus shining bang on time!

Photo: Adrian Bort

surphalosophy

Finally then, what about your future? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years time?

Hopefully on the CT. That's the main goal.

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Sheldon Shines!

59 - SM Sheldon Simkus soaring high!

Photo: Shayne Nienaber

surphalosophy

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Twenty 15 Talent Photos: Gines Diaz, Kim Gillick, Gunar Steinert & Stu Gaston; Words: stu gaston

61 - SM Tommy Boucaut grabbing some air time!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots Here's our pick of four of the most exciting upcoming surfers from around the globe who have made their mark this past year!

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Tommy Boucaut

63 - SM Tommy Boucaut taking that tail high!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots First up, it's Tommy Boucaut who finished his final year on the WSL European Pro Junior circuit at 10th on the rankings. Equally impressive in both competition and freesurfing his local, be that in Australia or France, Tommy is going to be a big name on the QS in the years to come...

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Tommy Boucaut

65 - SM Tommy Boucaut and his backhand attack!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

Name: Tommy Boucaut Age: 20 Nickname: Boucattyy Years surfing: 11 Where you live: Lennox Head, Australia & Capbreton, France Sponsors: Quiksilver and Globe footwear Local break/s: Lennox Point and La Piste Favourite surfer?

Mark Occhilupo and Andy Irons Favourite place to surf?

Aussie Pipe, Jervis Bay, Australia Favourite surf movie?

Momentum (2001) by Taylor Steele Favourite surf trick?

Barrels Favourite board?

5'11 Swallow tail

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Tommy Boucaut

67 - SM Tommy Boucaut carving up Caparica!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

What first got you into surfing?

I got into surfing because I was brought up around the ocean... My dad owned an Icecream van in Byron bay, so I would be at the beach surfing all day, eating Ice creams for lunch. My parents bough me my first board when I was 9 Who in surfing inspires you most?

The most inspiring surfer for me is Andy Irons

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Tommy Boucaut

69 - SM Tommy Boucaut bang on time!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

When and how did you become sponsored?

My first sponsor was Globe footwear when I was 12... I did alot of the grom comps so I guess that helped.

What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why?

To be honest I love both. Nothing beats getting amazing waves with your friends...But competing is also an amazing feeling.

What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far?

My favourite moment was winning the Gromsearch national final on the Sunshine coast.

What's been the highlight of this past year for you?

Probably surfing in the Franito Pro Junior in the Canary islands...Amazing waves with only a few guys in the line up.

So where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf?

Australia, France, Tahiti, Hawaii, Spain, Portugual, Canary Islands and Panama

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Tommy Boucaut

71 - SM Tommy Boucaut taking to the air once more!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

When and where was your best surf session?

Teahupoo in 2010 with a good mate and only a few bodyboarders out.

What's the worst wipeout of your life?

My worst wipeout was at Tallows on a small day. I just pulled into a barrel and fell off with out breathing.

Do you train as well as surf?

Yes, but mostly surfing.

What do you do when you don't surf?

I play guitar or hang out with my friends.

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Tommy Boucaut

73 - SM Tommy Boucaut tail slashing a Lacanau left!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

What's your goal for next year?

To win a contest or go on a crazy trip with amazing waves..

And what about the future?

Not too sure, I guess I'll take it as it comes. Hopefully always surfing.

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Luis Diaz

75 - SM Luis Diaz laying one down in Lanzarote!

Photo: Gines Diaz

HotShots Next let's look at Luis Diaz whose surfing has been lighting up not only the shores of his native island Gran Canaria but also the whole of Europe with top quality performances in WSL Pro Juniors through France, Portugal and Spain throughout the year taking him to 17th on the rankings. Still only 17, Luis has another year left to truly make his mark on the contest scene!

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Luis Diaz

77 - SM Luis Diaz looking to the next big one!

Photo: Gines Diaz

HotShots

Name: Luis Diaz Age: 17 Nickname: Luchi Years surfing: 7 Where you live: Canary Islands Sponsors: Quiksilver, Monster Energy, Pukas Surfboards, Wawa, Jam Traction, Feather Fins Local break/s: North of Gran Canaria Favourite surfer?

Julian Wilson, Jonathan Gonzalez Favourite place to surf?

El Quemao, La Santa , Galdar Favourite surf movie?

Stranger than Fiction Favourite surf trick?

Barrel Favourite board?

My Pukas 5'9 shaped by Taz

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Luis Diaz

79 - SM Luis Diaz looking to the landing!

Photo: Gines Diaz

HotShots What first got you into surfing?

A birthday present of a surf lesson Who in surfing inspires you most?

Kelly Slater When and how did you become sponsored?

When I was 11 years old at a Pro Junior in the Canaries was when I got sponsored by Quiksilver What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why?

Competition, I'm very competitive!

What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far?

Every moment that I'm improving my surfing

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Luis Diaz

81 - SM Luis Diaz letting out a big backhand spray fan!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots What's been the highlight of these past few years for you?

I won the European Quiksilver Comp, the Maider Arosteguy, a couple of years ago and the European Volcom Final , and got 2nd in Europe at the last ISA, but these results aren't really a highilght for me – I still have many things to do ‌

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Luis Diaz

83 - SM Luis Diaz letting loose in Lanzarote!

Photo: Gines Diaz

HotShots Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf?

Out of Europe, I've been to Hawaii and Australia When and where was your best surf session?

A bit ago at home at a right slab called El Agujero What's the worst wipeout of your life?

I've had a couple of heavy ones, but for example ther was one where I hit the reef with my head Do you train as well as surf?

Yes, I do physical and technical training What do you do when you don't surf?

Training, studying, skate..

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Luis Diaz

85 - SM Luis Diaz driving off the top in Lacanau!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots What's your goal for next year?

To win the Pro Junior and qualify for the World Juniors And what about the future?

Try to be a WCT surfer!

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Louis Gillick

87 - SM Louis Gillick getting out his air game!

Photo: Kim Gillick

HotShots Louis Gillick is our third Hot Shot this time around and he's certainly been mixing up his talent this year.

On the contest side, he's made 17th on the WSL Australian Pro Junior rankings yet he's been pushing himself to take his freesurfing to ever greater heights. So Louis's definitely got a big future ahead!

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Louis Gillick

89 - SM Louis Gillick getting to the point!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots

Name: Louis Gillick Age: 20 Nickname: Louie Years surfing: 13 years Where you live: Culburra Beach, NSW, Australia Sponsors: Alpinestars, Byrne Surfboards, Peak Wetsuits, Sin Eyewear, Farking, Powerbase Fins Local break/s: The Lake Favourite surfer?

Parko Favourite place to surf?

The Lake Favourite surf movie?

Fitty Fitty Favourite surf trick?

Barrel Favourite board?

5'11 x 18.5 x 2.1/4

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Louis Gillick

91 - SM Louis Gillick launching over that lip!

Photo: Kim Gillick

HotShots What first got you into surfing?

My dad started surfing in his teenage years and got hooked on it and has been surfing ever since and so it has been a big part of his life. As his son, he brought me into what he loved and taught me how to surf when I was 7.

Who in surfing inspires you most?

John John Florence, his style is so layback and smooth, he is always pulling out those big airs and knows how to put it on rail, can ride a barrel extremely well and somehow lands a lot of miracles!

When and how did you become sponsored?

It was about 5 years ago. I was in Bali and a guy from Ripcurl we know called me up and said he had talked to the guy from Peak Wetsuits and said they were keen to take me on. That was my first sponsor and not long after that they just continued to come from Alpinestars and Byrne etc.

What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why?

Free surfing is so fun! You have no time or pressure so I love it but comps I do prefer. I like pressure and being pushed to surf a wave harder than your opponent to beat them. All your mates are around in good vibes and I like thinking of the heat tactics and watching people perform, it's interesting to watch and learn from them.

“I like pressure and being pushed to surf a wave harder than your opponent to beat them.�

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Louis Gillick

93 - SM Louis Gillick getting in that green room!

Photo: Kim Gillick

HotShots

Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf?

Bali, Tahiti, New Zealand, Japan, Taiwan, France, Spain, Morocco and all around Aus When and where was your best surf session?

It was at home 2 years ago at the place we call “The Lake�. There is a lake on the other side of the sand hills and when it gets full it bursts open and pushes all the sand out so it shapes the perfect bank and it opened 2 years ago and we got unbelievable long perfect barrels. It was 6ft and offshore all day. Never got so many good barrels in the one day before!

What's the worst wipeout of your life?

I was surfing a slab near home and a row of wash through sets came in that were about 8ft. I wore all of them straight on the head, got washed over the rock island in knee deep water, creased my board and got a few sea urchins in my feet and hands. It was a heavy wave.

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Louis Gillick

95 - SM Louis Gillick liking those aerial antics!

Photo: Kim Gillick

HotShots

What's been the highlight of this past year for you?

This year I haven’t had the results I was hoping for but it was my first year doing the QS and have learnt a lot but I recently just got 3rd in the DP Battle Royal invite only Do you train as well as surf?

Yes I do train, where I live there are not allot of facilities to go to or specialist in surf training so I do all the training at home and have been to a few training camps at the HPC so have picked up some exercises and have put them to work down at home.

What do you do when you don't surf?

I work for my dad during the week as a brick layer, but if the surf's flat I love taking photos with the gopro on the little shoreys or go fishing

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Louis Gillick

97 - SM Louis Gillick getting out his backhand attack!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotShots What's your goal for next year?

My goal would be to get into the QS10,000s And what about the future?

My dream since I was a kid was to be a professional surfer on tour so that's where I want to be one day, on the WCT!

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Jake Elkington

99 - SM Jake Elkington jamming out that tail!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots Finally, our fourth talent from Twenty Fifteen is 16 year old Jake Elkington who lives in Cape Town.

He reached 15th on the WSL Africa Pro Junior rankings and is sure to be one to watch for the future!

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Jake Elkington

101 - SM Jake Elkington setting those fins free!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots

Name: Jake Elkington Age: 16 Nickname: Elko Years surfing: 9 Where you live: Cape Town Sponsors: Billabong, BOS Ice Tea, Dakine, Von Zipper, Surfears, Dutchie Surf Designs, Grow Surfboards Local break/s: Long Beach Favourite surfer?

Filipe Toledo Favourite place to surf?

Supertubes Favourite surf movie?

Spinning at the Speed of Now Favourite surf trick?

Carve Favourite board?

5'9 swallow tail

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Jake Elkington

103 - SM Jake Elkington pointing in the right direction!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots

What first got you into surfing?

I watched my dad surfing and I wanted give it a go myself, and I thought surfers looked pretty cool.

Who in surfing inspires you most?

Mick Fanning When and how did you become sponsored?

In 2010 my brother and I did well in a grom competition and we were spotted by the Billabong team manager.

What do you prefer then, free surfing or competitions and why?

Contest surfing. I am very competitive and it gives me a chance to prove myself to everyone.

Nothing feels better to me than winning!

“I am very competitive.

Nothing feels better to me than winning!�

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Jake Elkington

105 - SM Jake Elkington loving those lips!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots What moment are you most proud of in your surfing career so far?

Being the team GB U16 top seed going to California.

What's been the highlight of this past year for you?

Competing in the World Junior Championships in California.

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Jake Elkington

107 - SM Jake Elkington carving off the top!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots

Where around the world have you been lucky enough to travel to and surf?

I am very lucky to have some of the best waves in the world very close to where I live. I have also travelled to and surfed California, Bali, Maldives, Ecuador, Namibia, Mozambique, Portugal and Newquay.

When and where was your best surf session?

About two months ago when I surfed Lower Trestles for the first time. It was quite late in the afternoon and the wind was cross shore, which made it perfect for airs and big turns.

What's the worst wipeout of your life?

Falling off at Skeleton Bay in Namibia. I was in the barrel and I got sucked over the falls, I hit the sand super hard. I'm not sure how long I was under for, but I think it was a two wave hold down.

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Jake Elkington

109 - SM Jake Elkington caning another lip!

Photo: Gunar Steinert

HotShots

Do you train as well as surf?

Yes, I have 3 surf coaches and a personal trainer.

I'm always working on my fitness.

What do you do when you don't surf?

Table tennis or skateboarding.

What's your goal for next year?

To get into the final of the 2016 ISA World Junior Championships in the Azores.

And what about the future?

Next year I am going to do some more Pro Junior contests. Possibly in Europe and Australia, there are hardly any Pro Junior contests over here in South Africa! Hopefully I will be able to go to the WSL World Junior Championships. Once I am out of the Pro Junior category I will begin my WQS campaign. I am always looking for more sponsors!

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Champions of the League Photos: John F Jackson, Gary Lightfoot, Sam Moody, Shayne Nienaber, Shutter pat, Chuck@Surf-shot.com; & Stu Gaston; Words: stu gaston

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Seth Moniz setting the surf alight!

Photo: John F Jackson

TheGoss For many junior surfers across the globe, 2015 became their last opportunity to take a title on the WSL Pro Junior tour with it being the last year for surfers under 20.

For a select few, it was also the opportunity to become a champion of the new World Surfing League – so here are our selection of fifteen of those lucky few...

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Champions of the League

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Ethan Ewing winging his way to a win!

Photo: Shayne Nienaber

TheGoss ETHAN EWING CARVE PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

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Seth Moniz soaring high over the competition!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGoss SETH MONIZ SUNSET BEACH PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

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Josh Moniz taking it tail high!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGoss JOSH MONIZ PIPELINE PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

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Miguel Blanco releasing those fins on the way to his win!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss

MIGUEL BLANCO CAPARICA PRIMAVERA SURF FEST PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

121 - SM Natxo Gonzalez nailing a Portuguese lefthander!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss NATXO GONZALEZ PROZIS PRO JUNIOR ESPINHO CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

123 - SM Cody Young caning one off his backhand!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss CODY ROBINSON SKULLCANDY OZ GROM OPEN PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

125 - SM Eithan Osborne takes it airborne!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGoss EITHAN OSBORNE BILLABONG JUNIOR SERIES, JEFFREY'S BAY PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

127 - SM Gatien Delahaye pointing in a winning direction!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss GATIEN DELAHAYE PENA TXURI PRO JUNIOR SOPELANA CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

129 - SM Griffin Colapinto's constant grinding paid off!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGoss GRIFFIN COLAPINTO VANS US OPEN OF SURFING PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

131 - SM Momoto Tsuzuki making those winning moves!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGoss MOMOTO TSUZUKI GOPRO JUNIOR GAMES PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

133 - SM Nomme Mignot nailed his air game to take the Airwalk title!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss NOMME MIGNOT AIRWALK PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

135 - SM Nelson Cloarec clinched the WSL European Championship title!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGoss NELSON CLOAREC LANZAROTE TEGUISE 2015 FRANITO PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

137 - SM Dylan Lightfoot focused on that top spot!

Photo: Gary Lightfoot

TheGoss DYLAN LIGHTFOOT BILLABONG JUNIOR SERIES, CAPE ST FRANCIS PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

139 - SM Matt Passaquindici made winning look easy!

Photo: Shutter Pat

TheGoss MATT PASSAQUINDICI RVCA PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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Champions of the League

141 - SM Cam Richards caned the competition!

Photo: Sam Moody

TheGoss CAM RICHARDS SPRITE SOUP BOWL PRO JUNIOR CHAMPION

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All Amped Up! Photos: Mario Entero & Stu Gaston Words: Stu Gaston & Isaac Marshall

143 - SM Andy Criere all amped up and ready to charge!

Photo: Mario Entero

HotWots

With winter really starting to take its grip on our waters, those epic swells are pounding our coastline and so the desire for longer surfs and longer sessions in the water has never been greater – so thanks to the innovations in wetsuit design you can be in there longer than ever! So in our continuing series of 'Hot Wots' features, we'll be taking another in depth look at What's Hot in the world of wetsuits, revisiting watersports giant ION's Onyx Amp which is now in a zipless version.

This time around we've got previous English Junior Champion, Isaac Marshall to help test out this performance suit alongside ION's own team rider, previous French Junior Champion, Andy Criere. And with two high performance surfers on board, they really were 'All Amped Up', fully charged and ready to get this one suited up and in the water!

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All Amped Up!

145 - SM Isaac Marshall fully charged and chucking that spray!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots

ION have recently launched into the surf scene, having always been a watersports giant, and have tagged their new zipless take on the popular Onyx Amp wetsuit for 'Hotshot riders looking to showcase their skills in style.' With this in mind, Isaac took on the challenge of testing the suit on a good day of surf at his local spot, Sennen.

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All Amped Up! A modern twist on the timeless classic, the Onyx Amp takes on a melange of contrasting colours and a new zipless style. The combination of ION's renowned Hot Stuff lining and new Ninja Spine makes this suit the perfect blend of quality, comfort and protection. For those striving hot shots who demand stretch rather than warmth, the zipless option features more stretch material and with additional tape sealing on the inside, this is a suit with so much swagger, it's up to the surfer to do the performing.

NINJA SPINE By mimicking the concept of the Ninja Knees, ION gives the same freedom of movement to where it's neeeded. By incorporating a small striped insert between the back and the buttock panels, more flexibility is provided for rotation and stretch.

NINJA KNEES When buying a wetsuit, the first thing a surfer will do is pull the arms to see how stretchy they are. Well ION believes the legs deserve the same attention, so the new Ninja Knees feature uses the same highly elastic materials as used in the arm panels. The result is astonishing with awesome freedom of movement, especially when bending the knees.

So bringing all these highly elastic panels together and you have a truly flexible wetsuit!

147 - SM Isaac Marshall all 'Amp'-ed up!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots ZIPLESS A performance orientated zipless construction for slick style, light weight and sublime stretch.

SEAM PROTECTION All stress points that come under a lot of force are reinforced with either Melco Tape on the inside seams, or rubber logo patches on the outside of the suit to prevent ripping.

SEAL TITE A rubber like stripe print is provided around the inside of the wrists and ankles. This results in a tighter sealed fit which stops water from rushing into your suit and loosening of material around these areas.

CONTOUR CUT To improve flexibility and comfort, all ION wetsuits come with the ION Contour Cut. It greatly enhances flex in the collar, wrists, elbows, insteps and the back of the knees.

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All Amped Up!

149 - SM Isaac Marshall making a mark with his stylish backhand attack!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots

STYLE The style of the suit is vibrant to say the least and really stands out. The logos are in prime positions on the chest, legs and arms which, in terms of advertising the brand, makes sense. Personally I prefer wetsuits that are plain black with a smaller logo but there were some subtle and stylish elements to this suit. Even though I think the orange logo is slightly too bright, I do agree with the use of the darker red for the upper body as I think it's much more subtle and stylish. I definitely agree with the use of a no zip system though as the suit looks seamless and less cluttered in the chest region.

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All Amped Up!

151 - SM Andy Criere charging in his Onyx Amp! Photo: Mario Entero

HotWots

FUNCTIONALITY The Onyx Amp is loaded with a whole host of innovative features. As well as your obvious drain holes and key pocket, it has fully liquid seamed seals on its outer lining. Less obvious are the extra stretchy neoprene sections at the base of the back and around the knees, though these certainly add to the flex of the suit!

The Hot Stuff lining more than gives that extra warmth to keep you positive about those early morning dawnies. The suit also feels like an Italian tailored jacket with bodily contour cut wrists and ankles which improve the overall fit.

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All Amped Up!

153 - SM Isaac Marshall hotting things up!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots

COMFORT The zipless system is very comfortable as you have no zip digging into your chest or back when you are paddling etc. The neoprene in the suit seemed to be one of the softest I have ever experienced!

However the suit did seem tight and did feel slightly restricting when I was in the water. Having said that the cause of this could very easily be the cut of the suit or even the sudden change from a 3/2 to a 5/3 in that week as that extra layer of rubber can always need adjusting to at this time of year! The warmth of the suit was unbelievable though. I rarely find myself being too hot in the water at Sennen but wearing the Onyx Amp, I did actually feel too hot, so I can imagine in the depths of the cold wintery swells, it has the capability of keeping you very warm indeed!

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All Amped Up!

USABILITY As I said, I did feel slightly restricted when I was in the water, especially when paddling. I felt as though my range of movement was slightly limited in my shoulders and chest.

This could be because I wasn't used to the selection of panelling and seams with this being the first time I'd used a zipless suit, or whether the cut of the suit was different to the brands I'm used to, I'm not sure. Certainly, on the other hand, the suit was very comfortable and warm which meant I was happy to stay out in the water for a good long session which is a definite bonus at this time of the year when you want to make the most of it!

155 - SM Isaac Marshall making the most of it!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots

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All Amped Up!

157 - SM Isaac Marshall putting the Onyx Amp through its paces!

Photo: Stu Gaston

HotWots

STRETCHABILITY The Onyx Amp is surprisingly stretchy for a 5/4, meaning it does fit like a glove. At first, I was wondering quite how easy it was going to be putting on this new zipless style of suit but I needn't have worried. Getting in and out of the suit was actually very easy. Even without the help of a zip, I found myself in no struggle getting the suit on and off so in that sense, I was pleasantly surprised by the stretch of the neoprene.

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All Amped Up!

159 - SM Andy Criere loves a suit as light as the air!

Photo: Mario Entero

HotWots

THE VERDICT All in all, I thought the suit was a success. In terms of warmth and comfort of the neoprene I rate it highly. I can conclude that I would buy this suit based on the review and test session I had in it – in plain black would be preferable though!

STYLE ●●●●●●●○○○ ●●●●●●●○○○

FUNCTIONALITY ●●●●●●●●○○ ●●●●●●●●○○

COMFORT ●●●●●●●●○ ●●●●●●●●○○

USABILITY ●●●●●●●●○○ ●●●●●●●●○○

STRETCHABILITY ●●●●●●●●●○

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T H E G A L L E R Y

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Thomas Delplace on his way to taking his impressive air game tail high!

Photo: Stu Gaston

TheGallery

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T H E G A L L E R Y

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Jake Sage searching out waves whatever the conditions!

Photo: Pete Singlehurst

TheGallery

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T H E G A L L E R Y

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Connor Stratton-Darling always creative and innovating like new sponsor Vissla!

Photo: Pete Singlehurst

TheGallery

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T H E G A L L E R Y

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Arran Strong on a neverending hunt for barrels!

Photo: Chuck@Surf-shot.com

TheGallery

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Surphang Magazine

169 - SM Russel Bierke bringing a new dawn!

Photo: Leroy Bellet

NextIssue Unbelievably, that's another year done and so soon we'll be bringing you our first issue of 2016 and it's going to be one to remember as we celebrate not only 4 years of Supporting Upcoming Rider Potential Here And Now Globally – or SURPHANG as we like to call ourselves – but also the dawn of a new era in surfing! Yes we'll be focusing on the fresh upcoming talent from all four corners of the globe so be sure to join us then! And for now, keep SURPHANG!

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Thanks for reading the Forty Fourth issue of

Surphang Magazine

We'll certainly be following Kanoa's progress on Tour in 2016!

Photo: John Philpotts