Victorian surfer India Robinson has qualified for the 2022 World Surf League Championship tour today at the Michelob ULTRA Pure Gold Haleiwa Challenge in Hawaii.
Australia’s Robinson came into this event with plenty of hype behind her and the 21-year-old lived up to it. A dominant showcase of her forehand attack led her to a massive Quarterfinal victory before yet another win in the Semifinals, ultimately leading to the elimination of fellow Australian threat Molly Picklum. But, despite a fourth-place finish, Robinson had the work done and will be among the world’s best in 2022.
“I can’t believe I made the Final after such a big week and it’s a dream come true,” said Robinson. “I’ve worked so hard for this and it has paid off. I’m still in shock, but wow, I can’t wait for next year.”
Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) took out the final stop of the 2021 Challenger Series, following a dramatic Final to close the event over Gabriela Bryan (HAW), Carissa Moore (HAW), and Robinson (AUS). Sakura Johnson overcame inconsistent, three-to-four foot swell and provided moments of brilliance to secure her first major WSL victory and secure her qualification on the 2022 Championship Tour.
“This is such a huge moment in my life,” said Sakura Johnson. “Just a big thanks to everyone being here, rain or sunshine, and I’m just going to have a big smile. Thank you to everyone in Haleiwa, helping me and supporting me, and I’m really happy to represent Haleiwa and do it here. I’m truly in shock.”
For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.
Women’s Michelob ULTRA Pure Gold Haleiwa Challenger Final Results:
1 – Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) 13.17 10,000 points
2 – Gabriel Bryan (HAW) 11.50 8,000 points
3 – Carissa Moore (HAW) 9.76 6,500 points
4 – India Robinson (AUS) 2.00 6,100 points
Women’s Challenger Series Rankings:
1. Gabriela Bryan (HAW)
2. Brisa Hennessy (CRI)
3. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)
4. Caitlin Simmers (USA)
5. India Robinson (AUS)
6. Carissa Moore (HAW)
7. Luana Silva (HAW)
All photos (c) World Surf League
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