Sierra Kerr and Jett Schilling Crowned 2023 World Junior Champions

at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Kerr and Schilling Claim Maiden World Junior Titles and Earn Place on 2024 Challenger Series
Benedetto and Bunch Earn Runner-up Finishes Amid World-Class Fields

Pictured front page and above: Today, Sierra Kerr (AUS) (L) and Jett Schilling (USA) (R) became WSL World Junior Champions in Oceanside, California. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Saturday, January 13, 2024) – Today, Sierra Kerr (AUS) and Jett Schilling (USA) won the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western and added their name to surfing history as WSL World Junior Champions. Kerr and Schilling overcame formidable fields to earn the World Junior Titles and claim their spots on the 2024 Challenger Series. Impressive showings from Zoe Benedetto (USA) and Jackson Bunch (HAW) earned them runner-up finishes after surmounting world-class opponents as they return to their respective Qualifying Series (QS) events in hopes of joining the 2024 Challenger Series contenders.

Kerr Kickstarts Competitive Surfing Legacy with World Junior Championship

A star-studded women’s Final featured one of the sport’s rising stars, Sierra Kerr (AUS), and current North America Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1, event wildcard, Zoe Benedetto (USA). A masterclass performance from Kerr’s signature progression and flair provided a near-perfect 9.00 (out of a possible 10) after opening the heat with a 7.83. Benedetto’s excellent 8.00 kept her in the heat, but slower conditions tested the Floridian’s patience and didn’t get the opportunity to perform before time expired.

“That was the craziest heat,” said Kerr. “It’s amazing to win. I feel like I haven’t been surfing that good this contest. I went in the Final just going to leave nothing on the table. I felt like I actually surfed good, so I was frothing. I wasn’t even expecting to qualify for the Challenger Series. I forgot that was a thing. That’s insane. Thank you to everyone who came and watched, and everyone that’s watching.”

In the 2022 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships, Sierra Kerr (AUS) established herself as a competitive threat with her Semifinal appearance and continues to push the boundaries of progressive surfing. Kerr backed herself up by winning the 2023 Australia/Oceania Pro Regional title and then showcased even more progression with a flawless run in Oceanside heading into the Final after a 16.17 heat total (out of a possible 20) victory over Talia Swindal (USA) in the Semifinals. Now, Kerr prepares for a big year ahead among the Challenger Series contenders and the opportunity to qualify for the 2025 Championship Tour (CT).

Schilling Delivers Southern California First World Junior Title Since 2018

A clash of event standouts delivered fireworks in the men’s Final between Southern California’s own Jett Schilling and Maui, Hawaii’s Jackson Bunch (HAW). Schilling wasted no time getting busy, posting a 6.33 on his first wave before finding a gem that allowed him to unleash his quick, powerful backhand for an excellent 8.33. Bunch was able to respond, posting a 6.00, but Schilling was relentless and posted a 7.17 to apply pressure to Bunch before besting that with a 7.90 and become a WSL World Junior Champion.

“It was so special, I couldn’t believe it,” said Schilling. “I just want to thank God and my family first and thank them for everything they’ve done for me This is really special for me, all my friends are here, it’s just surreal. Thank you to everyone. I have to work even harder for this year and just keep going until I get on the CT with all my friends.”

Schilling completed a flawless run of his own, not losing a single heat on the way to becoming the 2023 WSL World Junior Champion. The 20-year-old Schilling battled with fellow Southern Californian Levi Slawson in a stout Semifinal clash and surged past him in brilliant form. One of San Clemente’s rising talents, Schilling now returns to the Challenger Series in hopes of qualifying for the Championship Tour for 2025 alongside his fellow California contingent.

Benedetto and Bunch Earn Runner-up Finishes Amid World-Class Fields

An incredible run from wildcard Zoe Benedetto (USA) played the ultimate spoiler throughout competition all the way to the Final. Benedetto, the current North America Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1, surpassed reigning South America Regional Pro Junior victor Sol Aguirre (PER) in their Semifinal clash before her Final showdown with eventual WSL World Junior Champion Sierra Kerr (AUS). Now, Benedetto returns to the QS in search of maintaining her re-qualification place onto the 2024 Challenger Series.

“This week is my first World Juniors,” said Benedetto. “I couldn’t be more grateful for my team, my family, my friends, that support me through this. That final was like one of the highlights. I just felt really accomplished making it there. I felt not too pressured. Congrats to Sierra, she’s pushing women’s surfing so much. To share a Final with her is amazing. I’m really grateful. Can’t thank WSL enough, and everyone for making it a special weekend.”

Jackson Bunch’s (HAW) run throughout the World Junior Championships culminated with a runner-up finish. Bunch eliminated Leo Casal (BRA) in the Semifinals this morning with an excellent heat score of 16.63. But, Bunch couldn’t quite carry the momentum from the Semifinals into the Finals heat against Schilling, losing his first heat of the competition, and nearly joined Kai Barger (HAW) as one of Maui’s WSL World Junior Champions.

“The waves have been super fun. Just unlucky with the waves in that last heat,” said Bunch. “But, I’m super stoked and super grateful for this opportunity. I’m just having fun and I’m along for the ride.”

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Final Results:
1 – Sierra Kerr (AUS) 16.83
2 – Zoe Benedetto (USA) 11.50

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Final Results:
1 – Jett Schilling (USA) 16.23
2 – Jackson Bunch (HAW) 13.37

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Zoe Benedetto (USA) 10.17 DEF. Sol Aguirre (PER) 9.77
HEAT 2: Sierra Kerr (AUS) 16.17 DEF. Talia Swindal (USA) 12.26

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Jett Schilling (USA) 14.00 DEF. Levi Slawson (USA) 4.50
HEAT 2: Jackson Bunch (HAW) 16.63 DEF. Leo Casal (BRA) 13.33

The 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western are proudly supported by SAMBAZON, Best Western, Cup Noodles, Visit Oceanside, Original Sprout, Sun Diego, Boxed Water, Board and Brew, and Tractor Beverage Co.

SATURDAY 1.13.24

Finals Day Called ON at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Men’s Semifinals Starts at 7:35 a.m. PST (530AM HI TIME)
Women’s Semifinals Set to Follow
2023 WSL World Junior Champions to be Crowned
Watch LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Current North America Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1 Zoe Benedetto (USA) looks for a maiden WSL World Junior title starting in Semifinal, Heat 1. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Saturday, January 13, 2024) – Finals Day at the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western has been called back ON for a 7:35 a.m. PST start. Two-to-three foot, clean conditions pulse into the Oceanside Pier lineup with women’s Semifinals first in the water, followed by men’s Semifinals. Winners of the Semifinals will make their way into their respective Finals for their opportunity to become the 2023 WSL World Junior Champion.

Reigning South America Regional Pro Junior victor Sol Aguirre (PER) and current North America Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1 Zoe Benedetto (USA) will square off in Semifinal, Heat 1. Next, a battle of Regional Pro Junior victors unfolds in Semifinal, Heat 2, featuring Sierra Kerr (AUS) and Southern California’s own Talia Swindal (USA).

An all-Southern Californian affair starts men’s Semifinal action featuring Levi Slawson and Jett Schilling in Heat 1. Then, a clash between reigning Hawaii/Tahiti Nui Regional QS victor Jackson Bunch (HAW) and Brazil’s rising talent Leo Casal (BRA) then gets underway in Semifinal Heat 2.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) vs. Jett Schilling (USA)
HEAT 2: Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sol Aguirre (PER) vs. Zoe Benedetto (USA)
HEAT 2: Sierra Kerr (AUS) vs. Talia Swindal (USA)

Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western will open on January 9 and hold a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

EARLIER

Finals Day Locked In and World Junior Champions Ready to Be Crowned

at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow, Saturday, January 13, at 7:00 a.m. PST for a possible 7:35 a.m. PST start to Finals Day.

Kerr Puts on a Progressive Clinic, Returns to Semifinals
Swindal Claims Win in Southern-Californian Quarterfinal Showdown
Slawson and Schilling Set Up All-American Semifinal Clash With Big Performances
Casal Remains Lone Brazilian Alongside Hawaii’s Next Gen

Pictured frpnt page and above: Rising star Sierra Kerr (AUS) posted an incredible 17.54 heat total in Quarterfinal, Heat 2 and returns to the Semifinals. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Friday, January 12, 2024) – A full day of action locked in Finals Day matchups at the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western. Competitors flourished in the three-to-four foot, clean conditions to showcase their high-performance capabilities with the women’s Round of 16 and Quarterfinals, and men’s Quarterfinals completed. Now, the 2023 WSL World Junior Champions await crowning when competition resumes for its final day.

Kerr Puts on a Progressive Clinic, Returns to Semifinals

A battle of the sport’s rising threats unfolded between Brazil’s Laura Raupp and Australia’s Sierra Kerr. Raupp got out to an early lead, but Kerr’s signature progression and dynamic approach in her maneuvers earned an excellent 8.67 (out of a possible 10) to narrow the requirement. Kerr continued to respond after Raupp attempted to better her score, but Kerr’s forehand attack led to another impressive finish and another excellent 8.87. The 17.54 (out of a possible 20) heat total by Kerr, who splits her time between Carlsbad, California, and Australia, notes one of the best performances of the event.

“I definitely thought it was going to be pretty rough and grindy out there, but I felt pretty confident on this board, and I’m glad I took it out because the waves were pretty fun,” said Kerr. “This morning I was pretty nervous, but once you get a heat in you just want to get another and have fun. When I got my first wave, I didn’t expect that it was going to be a good wave and then thought maybe it was turning on. And when I got my second wave, I thought even if I fall, there will be another one, which there didn’t end up being, so happy to have made my turns.”

Swindal Claims Win in Southern-Californian Quarterfinal Showdown

An all-Southern California Quarterfinal dual provided a showdown featuring Malibu, California’s Talia Swindal, against her friend, San Clemente’s own Bella Kenworthy. The two battled in the tougher, low tide conditions with Swindal holding the lead heading into the final 10 minutes before unleashing her powerful forehand to accrue an excellent 8.17. Swindal then closed the door on her opponent with a 7.33 and held firm to earn her place in the Semifinals.

“I found my rhythm in that heat and felt really connected to the ocean,” said Swindal. “This board is pretty new and I’ve been riding it every day of the event and it works amazing. I was really stoked for that heat to surf against Bella [Kenworthy]. She’s one of my best friends so it was tough but also I love surfing against her because she pushes me to my best.”

Adding their names to the Semifinal draw, an in-form Sol Aguirre (PER) overcame young phenom Erin Brooks (CAN) before current North America Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1 Zoe Benedetto (USA) eliminated 2023 Europe Regional Pro Junior victor Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) to keep her World Junior Championships debut intact.

Slawson and Schilling Set Up All-American Semifinal Clash With Big Performances

A brilliant showing from Southern California’s own Levi Slawson (USA) and Jett Schilling (USA) in their respective Quarterfinal bouts set up an all-American Semifinal battle. Slawson delivered an astonishing showing against Brazilian standout Heitor Mueller (BRA) and posted a 17.36 heat total. Now, Slawson prepares for his opportunity to return to the SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Final and complete his redemption run.

“The waves are super fun and I was freaking out a little bit before the heat because the waves look super inviting,” said Slawson. “I had to keep myself calm and not over-surf any of my waves. This is what I surf every day so I was going out there with confidence and Heitor [Mueller] is a really good surfer so I couldn’t give him an inch.”

Schilling’s ability to thrive under pressure was on full display in his clash with 2023 South America Regional Pro Junior victor Ryan Kainalo (BRA). San Clemente’s Schilling was able to deliver a 7.50, needing a 7.12, on his vicious forehand and now prepares for Finals Day.

Casal Remains Lone Brazilian Alongside Hawaii’s Next Gen

An impressive showing in the afternoon conditions from Leo Casal (BRA) provided one of the heavier upsets of the event so far after eliminating reigning World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS). Casal’s strong backhand led to a heat-best 6.43 to take control and force Earle into needing a 6.53. But, the ocean did not provide Earle an opportunity and Casal earned his place in the Semifinals.

“The conditions seem like Brazil, we surf a lot of beach breaks with smaller conditions like this and I’m used to it, I love it,” said Casal. “I do training at a clinic for therapy and training. A lot of professional surfers and skateboarders train there and that’s my preparation for when I’m home.”

Rounding out Semifinal competitors, the event’s top performer Joel Vaughan (AUS) took on current Hawaii/Tahiti Nui Qualifying Series (QS) No. 2 Jackson Bunch (HAW) and battled for the last spot. Bunch earned a massive win with his aerial antics to post an excellent 8.10 and now looks for a maiden World Junior Championships title of his own.

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow, Saturday, January 13, at 7:00 a.m. PST for a possible 7:35 a.m. PST start to Finals Day.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Sol Aguirre (PER) 11.27 DEF. Erin Brooks (CAN) 11.10
HEAT 2: Zoe Benedetto (USA) 10.67 DEF. Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) 9.86
HEAT 3: Sierra Kerr (AUS) 17.54 DEF. Laura Raupp (BRA) 12.50
HEAT 4: Talia Swindal (USA) 15.50 DEF. Bella Kenworthy (USA) 7.57

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) 17.36 DEF. Heitor Mueller (BRA) 12.34
HEAT 2: Jett Schilling (USA) 14.83 DEF. Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 14.44
HEAT 3: Leo Casal (BRA) 12.10 DEF. Jarvis Earle (AUS) 9.84
HEAT 4: Jackson Bunch (HAW) 15.43 DEF. Joel Vaughan (AUS) 13.20

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Round of 16 Results:
HEAT 1: Erin Brooks (CAN) 13.83 DEF. Noah Klapp (DEU) 5.63
HEAT 2: Sol Aguirre (PER) 13.23 DEF. Eweleiula Wong (HAW) 11.33
HEAT 3: Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) 15.67 DEF. Ellie Harrison (AUS) 14.13
HEAT 4: Zoe Benedetto (USA) 11.84 DEF. Nora Liotta (HAW) 10.87
HEAT 5: Sierra Kerr (AUS) 15.17 DEF. Keira Buckpitt (AUS) 10.17
HEAT 6: Laura Raupp (BRA) 14.60 DEF. Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) 10.33
HEAT 7: Bella Kenworthy (USA) 12.83 DEF. Louise Lepront (RSA) 9.77
HEAT 8: Talia Swindal (USA) 14.50 DEF. Zahli Kelly (AUS) 12.76

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) vs. Jett Schilling (USA)
HEAT 2: Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Semifinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sol Aguirre (PER) vs. Zoe Benedetto (USA)
HEAT 2: Sierra Kerr (AUS) vs. Talia Swindal (USA)

Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western holds a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

……at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western.

EARLIER UPDATE BELOW

Day 4 is ON for Friday. Thursday: Men’s Quarterfinalists Determined

Women’s Round of 16 Starts at 7:35 a.m. PST

Men’s and Women’s Quarterfinals on Schedule

GO LIVE DAY HERE ON YOUTUBE

Pictured: Opening Round standout Erin Brooks (CAN) returns to the water in Round of 16, Heat 1. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Friday, January 12, 2024) – The World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western has been called back ON for a 7:35 a.m. PST start. Competition begins with women’s Round of 16 heats in three-to-four foot, clean conditions before moving directly into men’s Quarterfinals duals. Then, women’s Quarterfinals bouts will finish the day to determine who earns their place in Finals Day for a chance to become the 2023 WSL World Junior Champion.

Opening Round standout Erin Brooks (CAN) will start women’s Round of 16 duals with Noah Klapp (DEU) in Heat 1.

2023 South America Regional Pro Junior victor Sol Aguirre (PER) and replacement threat Eweleiula Wong (HAW) will square off in Heat 2. Aguirre is joined by fellow No. 1’s Talia Swindal (USA), Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK), Sierra Kerr (AUS), Louise Lepront (RSA), and more looking for their place into the Quarterfinals.

A world-class Quarterfinal draw awaits men’s competition beginning with Encinitas, California’s own Levi Slawson taking on event threat Heitor Mueller (BRA) in Heat 1. Jett Schilling (USA) will clash with 2023 South America Pro Junior No. 1 Ryan Kainalo in Heat 2 (BRA) before Heat 3 features Leo Casal (BRA) facing reigning World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS). Finally, a battle of event standouts between Jackson Bunch (HAW) and Joel Vaughan (AUS) finishes Quarterfinal action.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)
HEAT 2: Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Ryan Kainalo (BRA)
HEAT 3: Jarvis Earle (AUS) vs. Leo Casal (BRA)
HEAT 4: Jackson Bunch (HAW) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Noah Klapp (DEU)
HEAT 2: Sol Aguirre (PER) vs. Eweleiula Wong (HAW)
HEAT 3: Ellie Harrison (AUS) vs. Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)
HEAT 4: Zoe Benedetto (USA) vs. Nora Liotta (HAW)
HEAT 5: Sierra Kerr (AUS) vs. Keira Buckpitt (AUS)
HEAT 6: Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Laura Raupp (BRA)
HEAT 7: Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Louise Lepront (RSA)
HEAT 8: Zahli Kelly (AUS) vs. Talia Swindal (USA)

EARLIER UPDATES:
Vaughan Decimates Round of 16 Proceedings with Event-Best Showing
Brazilian Duo Mueller and Kainalo Put On Dominant Displays in Oceanside
Slawson and Schilling Continue Pushing Southern California Forward
Earle Keeps World Junior Title Defense Intact
GO LIVE DAY HERE ON YOUTUBE

Pictured: Australia’s Joel Vaughan unleashed the event’s best performance so far with a near-perfect 18.53 heat total. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Thursday, January 11, 2024) – A whirlwind day of competition at the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western determined the event’s first Quarterfinalists in three-to-five-foot stormy conditions. Heavy winds forced event organizers to go on hold throughout the morning before conditions cleaned up to complete the men’s Round of 16. The women’s Round of 16 heats were called OFF for the day and will get underway when competition resumes.

Vaughan Decimates Round of 16 Proceedings with Event-Best Showing

2023 standout Joel Vaughan (AUS) made his statement with a powerful, event-best showing against Tenshi Iwami (JPN). Vaughan’s remarkable forehand attack and aerial antics earned a near-perfect 18.53 (out of a possible 20) heat total with a 9.43 (out of a possible 10) and 9.10. Now, Vaughan prepares to continue this momentum into the Quarterfinals and surge toward a maiden World Junior Championships title.

“I kind of started a little slow, then I think I got an 8.17 on my first one and it was just one turn,” said Vaughan. “Then I fell off and came in, ran around, reset, went back out there and had 15 minutes to go. I had some good waves and had a bit of fun.”

Brazilian Duo Mueller and Kainalo Put On Dominant Displays in Oceanside

Brazil’s Heitor Mueller continues to show his composure on the World Junior Championships stage and put a glimpse of his potential on full display. Mueller found a gem amid the stormy conditions and showcased his power on critical sections to earn a near-perfect 9.00 (out of a possible 10) and 15.00 (out of a possible 20) heat total against current Hawaii/Tahiti Nui Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1 Shion Crawford (HAW). Now, Mueller enters the Quarterfinals in his World Junior Championships debut with ambitions set on Finals Day.

“I got the two turns and then on the final turn I felt the board getting away from me and I was able to stick it,” said Mueller. “My practice at home in Brazil paid off and I’m stoked to get through that heat. This is the first time I rode this board so I’m very happy it went good and now I’m looking to keep it going in the next heat.”

In another dominant display, Mueller’s countryman Ryan Kainalo (BRA) pushed him into the Quarterfinals with a day’s best 15.83 heat total. Kainalo found his form in 2023, winning the South America Regional Pro Junior title, and continues to show he’s a rising threat heading into 2024.

“I’m pretty happy to make this heat, and I just want to surf in the Quarterfinals,” said Kainalo. “When the left came, I didn’t hear my score and I didn’t know what happened in the heat. Later I tried to stay close to Luke because he’s a good surfer, and I needed to not give him a chance at the heat. But I’m pretty happy to make it because I lost in this round last year. And now two more heats to make the Final, I’m pretty excited.”

Slawson and Schilling Continue Pushing Southern California Forward

Levi Slawson (USA) wasted no time posting the round’s first excellent score, posting an 8.50 on his opening ride against Elimination Round standout Harley Walters (AUS). Slawson’s signature forehand power led him to a 14.60 heat total in the testy conditions, and he now moves back into the Quarterfinals.

“It was a tricky morning, and I didn’t expect to be as wild and unruly as it was, but I’ve seen this happen a bunch of times here with the winds switching later in the day,” said Slawson. “I think I got the last clean wave of the day with that 8.50. In my mind I didn’t think I was going to make that last turn because I got to it super late. I feel like I haven’t really fully opened up yet and feel like I’m just getting started.”

Earle Keeps World Junior Title Defense Intact

Reigning World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS) kept his title defense hopes intact after battling with Elimination Round standout Monnojo Yahagi (JPN). Also, big performances from Jett Schilling (USA), Leo Casal (BRA), and Jackson Bunch (HAW) added their names to the Quarterfinal draw to inch closer to the SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Final.

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow, Friday, January 12, at 7:00 a.m. PST to determine a possible 7:35 a.m. PST start for women’s Round of 16 competition.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) 14.50 DEF. Harley Walters (AUS) 7.50
HEAT 2: Heitor Mueller (BRA) 15.00 DEF. Shion Crawford (HAW) 13.20
HEAT 3: Jett Schilling (USA) 10.83 DEF. Sam Piter (FRA) 10.50
HEAT 4: Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 15.83 DEF. Luke Thompson (RSA) 12.83
HEAT 5: Jarvis Earle (AUS) 11.80 DEF. Monnojo Yahagi (JPN) 10.16
HEAT 6: Leo Casal (BRA) 12.37 DEF. Taj Lindblad (USA) 10.80
HEAT 7: Jackson Bunch (HAW) 15.16 DEF. Marlon Harrison (AUS) 13.20
HEAT 8: Joel Vaughan (AUS) 18.53 DEF. Tenshi Iwami (JPN) 12.76

Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western hold a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

EARLIER UPDATES….
First Eliminations at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western
Raupp’s Near-Perfection Under Pressure Takes Her to the Round of 16
Buckpitt Stuns Proceedings, Notable Names Thrive Amid Elimination Scare
Slawson Responds to Opening Round Loss in Convincing Form
Crawford, Yahagi, and Walters Stand Apart Among Heavy-Hitters
GO LIVE DAY 3 HERE ON YOUTUBE

Day 3 Called ON at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Men’s Round of 16 Starts at 11:35 a.m. PST
Women’s Competition Called OFF for the Day

Pictured: 2022 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships runner-up Levi Slawson (USA) looks for another big Round of 16 performance in Heat 1. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Thursday, January 11, 2024) – The World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western has been called back ON for a 11:35 a.m. PST start. Men’s Round of 16 action will get underway to determine Quarterfinalists. Women’s competition has been called OFF for the day.

2022 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships runner-up Levi Slawson (USA) looks for his spot back into the Quarterfinals, but must overcome an in-form Harley Walters (AUS) in Round of 16, Heat 1.

Current Hawaii/Tahiti Nui’s Qualifying Series (QS) No. 1 Shion Crawford (HAW) will face Opening Round standout Heitor Mueller (BRA) in Heat 2 before Southern California’s own Jett Schilling will take on 2023 Europe Regional Pro Junior victor Sam Piter (FRA) in Heat 3.

Also, reigning World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS) returns to the water alongside in-form competitors Ryan Kainalo (BRA), Taj Lindblad (USA), Monnojo Yahagi (JPN), Luke Thompson (RSA) and more.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) vs. Harley Walters (AUS)
HEAT 2: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)
HEAT 3: Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Sam Piter (FRA)
HEAT 4: Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Ryan Kainalo (BRA)
HEAT 5: Jarvis Earle (AUS) vs. Monnojo Yahagi (JPN)
HEAT 6: Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Taj Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 7: Jackson Bunch (HAW) vs. Marlon Harrison (AUS)
HEAT 8: Joel Vaughan (AUS) vs. Tenshi Iwami (JPN)

Pictured: Brazil’s emerging talent Laura Raupp put on a near-perfect showcase in Oceanside, California. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Wednesday, January 10, 2024) – Elimination implications upped the pressure at the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western. Two-to-three foot conditions tested competitors’ patience and ability to showcase their potential with men’s and women’s Elimination Round duals on the line. Now, Round of 16 match ups are set with Opening Round victors ready to take on today’s standouts.

One of Brazil’s rising threats Laura Raupp faced elimination with just three minutes remaining and rose to the occasion when the ocean came to life. Raupp’s forehand power and technique was on full display to accrue a near-perfect 9.00 (out of a possible 10), overtaking the lead from Asia’s No. 1 Kana Nakashio (JPN). Now, Raupp returns to the Round of 16 after finishing with a Quarterfinal result at the 2022 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships.

“I was disappointed with myself because I had priority and let her go on the 7.50 so I knew I needed a better wave to show my surfing,” said Raupp. “I’m super stoked to make that heat. I was at the World Juniors last year so I’m stoked to make it again as a wildcard and just enjoying my time here in California with my family. It’s such a dream being here.”

A stunning performance from Keira Buckpitt (AUS) eliminated South America standout Sophia Medina (BRA) in a stout dual between the two rising competitors. Buckpitt’s quick start earned her the heat lead before Medina applied pressure to the Australian with a 7.50. Nearing the end of the heat, Buckpitt used her priority to block Medina on a potential scoring wave and left the Brazilian in an opportunity to strike again. But, the ocean did not cooperate and Buckpitt maintained her lead until time expired.

“I definitely didn’t think I was going to beat her,” said Buckpitt. “Just knowing Gabriel [Medina] is in her corner and how good she is, I just thought no way. This is definitely the biggest event I’ve done with all the big names like Sierra [Kerr], Bella [Kenworthy] and them. I’m a no-namer here, but I want to give it my best go.”

Also thriving under pressure, wildcards Ellie Harrison (AUS), Zahli Kelly (AUS), Eweleiula Wong (HAW), and Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN), joined Hawaii/Tahiti Nui’s top representative Nora Liotta (HAW) with wins in their Elimination Round duals to move into the Round of 16. Talia Swindal (USA) also heads into the Round of 16 after Janire Etxabarri (EUK) had to withdraw from the event due to injury.

Slawson Recovers From Opening Round Loss in Convincing Form

Men’s Elimination Round action heated up with spots into the Round of 16 on the line and heavy-hitters looking to keep their World Junior Title hopes intact.

Encinitas, California’s own, 2022 World Junior Championship runner-up, Levi Slawson (USA) recovered from his Opening Round loss with a commanding win over Japan’s Yuma Nagasawa. Slawson’s aggressive forehand maneuvers garnered a 14.06 (out of a possible 20) heat total and Round of 16 appearance to continue his redemption run.

“Yesterday I had a close heat, I made a mistake and fell on one of my waves and lost just barely short,” said Slawson. “I’m stoked to be in Oceanside this year and looking forward to the rest of the week. Throughout this whole area of Southern California, there’s so many guys to look up to. So many people to thank for showing me good surfing at such a young age. I’ve had good results over the last couple weeks, but this week I’m here focused on the World Juniors. I want to do one better than last year. Stoked to be competing. I’ve been loving all the competitions.”

Crawford Finds Near-Perfection and Yahagi Goes Excellent Among Heavy-Hitters

The North Shore of Oahu’s newest threat, Shion Crawford (HAW) continues to show his prowess in the jersey and posted a near-perfect 9.33 amid elimination implications. Crawford’s powerful forehand, groomed in his home waters of Haleiwa, was unleashed on the sandbars of Oceanside to surge into the Round of 16.

“I was the alternate last year, hoping to get in, but now I’m finally in it so I can show my surfing,” said Crawford. “I finally put two turns together. I just want to surf good. It’s a little bit soft, but a couple fun waves around here. I’m staying with Jackson [Bunch] and we’re always competitive. I look up to him and I just want to beat him all the time. But I love him too, and Brodi, and all the Hawaii boys. We’re all cheering for each other.”

2023 Asia No. 1 Monnojo Yahagi (JPN) and proven Hawaii/Tahiti Nui threat Brodi Sale (HAW) squared off and Yahagi matched Sale’s aerial antics with his own. Yahagi landed a massive air-reverse to earn an excellent 8.17 after already posting a 7.50, earning one of the day’s best 15.67 heat total, and moving into his first Round of 16 appearance at the SAMBAZON World Junior Championships.

“Before that heat I felt the wind come up and I like that direction of wind for airs,” said Yahagi. “I saw Brodi [Sale] go for airs and know he’s scary in the air. It was fun to get waves like that. Definitely tough, but fun when you got the right one.”

Yahagi’s fellow Japanese competitor Tenshi Iwami (JPN) joins him into the Round of 16 alongside a powerful performance from Harley Walters (AUS), Luke Thompson (RSA), Leo Casal (BRA), and Sam Piter (FRA) as they look to push themselves into the Quarterfinals.

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow, Thursday, January 11, at 7:30 a.m. PST to evaluate the conditions and make a decision for a possible 8:05 a.m. PST start to the competition.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Elimination Round Results:
HEAT 1: Ellie Harrison (AUS) 8.93 DEF. Sky Brown (GBR) 5.90
HEAT 2: Laura Raupp (BRA) 15.33 DEF. Kana Nakashio (JPN) 13.33
HEAT 3: Zahli Kelly (AUS) 12.10 DEF. Cocona Kawase (JPN) 9.17
HEAT 4: Eweleiula Wong (HAW) 10.84 DEF. Isabelle Nalu (BRA) 6.97
HEAT 5: Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) 12.90 DEF. Kalea Gervasi (PER) 10.10
HEAT 6: Nora Liotta (HAW) 10.44 DEF. Anastasia Venter (RSA) 7.90
HEAT 7: Keira Buckpitt (AUS) 12.00 DEF. Sophia Medina (BRA) 9.97
HEAT 8: Talia Swindal (USA) DEF. Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Elimination Round Results:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) 14.06 DEF. Yuma Nagasawa (JPN) 8.60
HEAT 2: Monnojo Yahagi (JPN) 15.67 DEF. Brodi Sale (HAW) 11.20
HEAT 3: Luke Thompson (RSA) 14.50 DEF. Luc Lepront (RSA) 12.53
HEAT 4: Tenshi Iwami (JPN) 13.60 DEF. Mitch Du Preez (RSA) 12.60
HEAT 5: Shion Crawford (HAW) 15.00 DEF. Luke Brumby (AUS) 13.10
HEAT 6: Harley Walters (AUS) 15.77 DEF. Adur Amatriain (EUK) 14.57
HEAT 7: Leo Casal (BRA) 11.67 DEF. Ilay Bochan (ISR) 10.24
HEAT 8: Sam Piter (FRA) 14.60 DEF. Reed Platenius (CAN) 11.00

Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western holds a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW

Day 2 Called ON at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Women’s Elimination Round Starts at 7:35 a.m. PST (535am HI time)
Men’s Elimination Round on Schedule
Watch LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Australia’s emerging talent Ellie Harrison looks to recover in Elimination Round, Heat 1. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Wednesday, January 10, 2024) – The World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western has been called back ON for a 7:35 a.m. PST start. First eliminations await in two-to-three foot conditions beginning with women’s Elimination Round, head-to-head duels and will be immediately followed by men’s Elimination Round battles.

A highly-anticipated clash between wildcard threats Ellie Harrison (AUS) and Sky Brown (GBR) will kick off women’s Elimination Round action in Heat 1.

Regional standouts including North America No. 1 Talia Swindal (USA), Hawaii/Tahiti Nui’s emerging contender Nora Liotta (HAW), South America No. 1 Isabelle Nalu (BRA), and more will look to stay in contention for the 2023 World Junior Title in their respective bouts.

2022 WSL World Junior Championships runner-up and Encinitas, California’s own Levi Slawson (USA) will look to rebound against Japan’s Yuma Nagasawa in men’s Elimination Round, Heat 1.

Also vying to keep their World Junior Title hopes alive, regional No. 1’s Shion Crawford (HAW), Mitch Du Preez (RSA), Reed Platenius (CAN), and Sam Piter (FRA) will have to overcome the Elimination Round alongside event threats.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Levi Slawson (USA) vs. Yuma Nagasawa (JPN)
HEAT 2: Brodi Sale (HAW) vs. Monnojo Yahagi (JPN)
HEAT 3: Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Luc Lepront (RSA)
HEAT 4: Tenshi Iwami (JPN) vs. Mitch Du Preez (RSA)
HEAT 5: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Luke Brumby (AUS)
HEAT 6: Adur Amatriain (EUK) vs. Harley Walters (AUS)
HEAT 7: Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Ilay Bochan (ISR)
HEAT 8: Reed Platenius (CAN) vs. Sam Piter (FRA)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Elimination Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Ellie Harrison (AUS) vs. Sky Brown (GBR)
HEAT 2: Laura Raupp (BRA) vs. Kana Nakashio (JPN)
HEAT 3: Zahli Kelly (AUS) vs. Cocona Kawase (JPN)
HEAT 4: Eweleiula Wong (HAW) vs. Isabelle Nalu (BRA)
HEAT 5: Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Kalea Gervasi (PER)
HEAT 6: Nora Liotta (HAW) vs. Anastasia Venter (RSA)
HEAT 7: Sophia Medina (BRA) vs. Keira Buckpitt (AUS)
HEAT 8: Talia Swindal (USA) vs. Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)

DAY ONE HIGHLITES…at SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western

Day 1: High-Performance Showcase Sets Up Elimination Round Draws

Defending World Junior Champion Earle and Standout Vaughan Lead Australian Charge
Mueller Makes His Move Alongside Brazilian Countryman Kainalo
Wildcards Lindblad, Brooks, Benedetto Begin Rattling Proceedings

Pictured: Joel Vaughan (AUS) put on one of the day’s best performances in his Opening Round debut. Credit: © WSL / Morris

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Tuesday, January 9, 2024) – The race for the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western titles got underway today with electric performances on opening day at Oceanside Pier in California. Three-to-four-foot, clean morning conditions provided competitors with a variety of opportunities to showcase their surfing. Men’s and women’s Opening Round heats were completed, setting up the event’s first eliminations when competition resumes.

Defending World Junior Champion Earle and Standout Vaughan Lead Australian Charge

Reigning WSL World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS) started his title defense in winning form with opening-round success. Earle looks to become just the fourth multiple World Junior Champion to put himself among an elite class and rejoin the Challenger Series in 2024.

Australia’s presence was reinforced with an excellent showing from 2024 standout competitor Joel Vaughan. Vaughan posted only one of two 10-point rides on the Challenger Series for his aerial antics. He showed his powerful forehand attack, finishing the wave for an excellent 8.17 (out of a possible 10) to accrue one of the day’s best heat totals, a 14.44 (out of a possible 20). North Shelly’s Vaughan looks for a maiden World Junior Title to close his Pro Junior career and return to the Challenger Series.

“I just saw Brady’s wave before, and he was a little late and it looked really nice, then the wave after came through and I was like I have to go on this one,” said Vaughan. “Every single heat is super stacked. You kind of just, almost try not to look at the heats. I’m really looking forward to just competing again in the Challenger Series. My goal is to qualify this year and put as much effort in as I can and work really hard toward that.”

Mueller Makes His Move Alongside Brazilian Countryman Kainalo

Brazil’s duo of Ryan Kainalo and Heitor Mueller earned South America early success as Mueller’s back-and-forth battle with current Hawaii/Tahiti Nui No. 1 Shion Crawford (HAW) and Australia’s Harley Walters garnered an Opening Round victory. Mueller earned his maiden WSL victory in 2019 and has since posted multiple wins both on the Qualifying Series and Pro Junior regional tours. But, Mueller now has sights on adding the pinnacle of Pro Junior competitions to his resume, the WSL World Junior Title.

“I’m happy with my performance in that heat,” said Mueller. “It’s my first time here in Oceanside. I just want to go with everything into the next heat.”

Also earning Opening Round victories and avoiding the Elimination Round, Jett Schilling (USA), Marlon Harrison (AUS), and Jackson Bunch (HAW) moved straight into the Round of 16.

Wildcards Begin Rattling Proceedings

One of North America’s rising talents, Taj Lindblad (USA), utilized his wildcard spot right away to earn an Opening Round win. San Clemente’s own, Lindblad, looks to make a statement in his final event as a Pro Junior for an opportunity to move straight onto the 2024 Challenger Series after showcasing a glimpse of his potential in 2023 among the Challenger Series contenders.

“It felt really good to get that heat win,” said Lindblad. “I surf here a lot. Mostly because T-street is really flat, so we always drive down here and end up surfing the pier. It’s kind of home. I’m sleeping in my own bed and wins are fun, so that’s always a plus. It clicked in my head I probably need more foam. I’m lucky enough to have [Kolohe Andino], and he gave me three boards for this event.”

Young phenom and fellow wildcard Erin Brooks (CAN) provided a comeback spectacle in the dying moments of her Opening Round, Heat 3 debut. Brooks faced being sent to the Elimination Round by Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) and Cocona Kawase (JPN) heading into the five-minute mark before taking to the air for a 6.27 and then showcasing her powerful forehand attack to garner the day’s best single-wave score, an excellent 8.33, and heat total of a 14.60. Now, the 16-year-old Brooks looks to continue her charge into the Round of 16.

“It was the first heat of the year for me, so I was a little bit nervous,” said Brooks. “The girls in my heat were surfing so well, so I knew I needed to step it up and I was waiting for waves that weren’t really coming. I kind of had to scramble at the last minute. I don’t really get nervous. I just keep my calm breathing and just pray.”

The wildcard threats weren’t done yet and Zoe Benedetto (USA) overpowered her maiden SAMBAZON World Junior Championships appearance with an excellent 8.00. Current North America QS No. 1, Benedetto, faced off with Asia Pro Junior No. 1 Kana Nakashio (JPN) and replacement competitor Eweleiula Wong (HAW), and took a commanding win to earn her place into the Round of 16.

“The first heat is always kind of scary but it is nice knowing it’s non-elimination,” said Benedetto. “I want to do my best and skip a round if I can so I was just trying to go through the motions and breathe. This is my first World Junior Championships. I haven’t really done that many junior events because I wanted to focus on the QS and making the Challenger Series. But [this event] is something you look at every year and think you wish you were there.”

Dynamic Opening Round wins from 2022 World Junior Championships standout Sierra Kerr (AUS), Africa’s No. 1 Louise Lepront (RSA), Noah Klapp (DEU), Bella Kenworthy (USA), South America’s No. 1 Sol Aguirre (PER), and Europe’s No. 1 Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) pushed them straight into the Round of 16.

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow, Wednesday, January 10, at 7:00 a.m. PST for a possible 7:35 a.m. PST start.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Opening Round Results:
HEAT 1: Jackson Bunch (HAW) 13.77 DEF. Tenshi Iwami (JPN) 13.50, Ilay Bochan (ISR) 7.17
HEAT 2: Jett Schilling (USA) 12.33 DEF. Adur Amatriain (EUK) 11.67, Luke Brumby (AUS) 11.17
HEAT 3: Marlon Harrison (AUS) 12.44 DEF. Levi Slawson (USA) 12.40, Luc Lepront (RSA) 10.24
HEAT 4: Jarvis Earle (AUS) 12.17 DEF. Yuma Nagasawa (JPN) 9.30, Reed Platenius (CAN) 7.84
HEAT 5: Joel Vaughan (AUS) 14.44 DEF. Brodi Sale (HAW) 11.84, Monnojo Yahagi (JPN) 11.53
HEAT 6: Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 12.30 DEF. Luke Thompson (RSA) 9.26, Mitch Du Preez (RSA) 7.50
HEAT 7: Heitor Mueller (BRA) 13.84 DEF. Harley Walters (AUS) 13.30, Shion Crawford (HAW) 12.03
HEAT 8: Taj Lindblad (USA) 13.73 DEF. Leo Casal (BRA) 12.03, Sam Piter (FRA) 12.00

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Opening Round Results:
HEAT 1: Bella Kenworthy (USA) 12.34 DEF. Talia Swindal (USA) 10.70, Keira Buckpitt (AUS) 9.93
HEAT 2: Louise Lepront (RSA) 9.16 DEF. Ellie Harrison (AUS) 8.90, Kalea Gervasi (PER) 6.93
HEAT 3: Erin Brooks (CAN) 14.60 DEF. Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) 14.00, Cocona Kawase (JPN) 12.27
HEAT 4: Sierra Kerr (AUS) 13.84 DEF. Sky Brown (GBR) 10.23, Anastasia Venter (RSA) 6.83
HEAT 5: Noah Klapp (DEU) 13.83 DEF. Nora Liotta (HAW) 11.10, Zahli Kelly (AUS) 8.67
HEAT 6: Zoe Benedetto (USA) 13.73 DEF. Kana Nakashio (JPN) 13.73, Eweleiula Wong (HAW) 11.37
HEAT 7: Sol Aguirre (PER) 12.50 DEF. Laura Raupp (BRA) 11.73, Isabelle Nalu (BRA) 6.46
HEAT 8: Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK) 13.17 DEF. Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) 10.16, Sophia Medina (BRA) 8.13

Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western holds a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW…

DAY 1: SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western Called ON

Oceanside hosts some high-performance small shoulder high sets with clean offshores.

Men’s Opening Round Starts at 7:30 a.m. PST (530am HI Time)
Hawaii has 5 surfers competing.
Women’s Opening Round on Schedule
GO LIVE HERE

The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships hosted by Best Western showcase the most talented 20-and-under surfers in the sport.

Winning the event gets these young stars onto the Challenger Series and one step away from the Championship Tour, and adds them to a proud history of past champions.

From world champs Andy Irons and Gabriel Medina to tour standouts Sally Fitzgibbons and Jordy Smith, many past World Junior Champions have gone on to become some of the most

influential figures in surfing.

OCEANSIDE PIER, Oceanside, Calif., USA (Tuesday, January 9, 2024) – Opening day of the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western has been called ON for a 7:30 a.m. PST start. Three-to-four foot, clean conditions will provide the showcase for men’s Opening Round action before moving directly into women’s Opening Round. Each heat will host three competitor heats with the winner bypassing the Elimination Round.

Men’s Opening Round affairs begin with Hawaii/Tahiti Nui’s reigning Qualifying Series (QS) Regional victor Jackson Bunch (HAW) taking on Japan’s Tenshi Iwami and Israel’s Ilay Bochan in Heat 1. Next up, Southern California’s rising standout Jett Schilling (USA) will face off against fellow 2022 World Junior Championships competitor Adur Amatriain (EUK) and Australia’s Pro Junior No. 2 Luke Brumby (AUS) in Heat 2.

Also ready for Opening Round action, 2022 WSL World Junior Champion Jarvis Earle (AUS), runner-up Levi Slawson (USA), regional No. 1’s Reed Platenius (CAN), Ryan Kainalo (BRA), Shion Crawford (HAW), Harley Walters (AUS), Monnojo Yahagi (JPN), Mitch Du Preez (RSA), and Sam Piter (FRA) look to make their mark among a stacked field of 2023 World Junior Championships contenders.

Women’s Opening Round bouts begin with Southern California duo, North America Pro Junior No. 1, Talia Swindal and current QS No. 5 Bella Kenworthy (USA) taking on Australia’s Keira Buckpitt (AUS) in Heat 1.

The battle for a new women’s World Junior Champion continues in Heat 2 featuring Australia’s Ellie Harrison facing off with Africa’s No. 1 Louise Lepront (RSA) and Kalea Gervasi (PER). Also, reigning regional victors Sierra Kerr (AUS), Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK), who is joined by sister Janire, Kana Nakashio (JPN), and Isabelle Nalu (BRA) will take on a formidable field beginning with Opening Round match ups.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Jackson Bunch (HAW), Tenshi Iwami (JPN), Ilay Bochan (ISR)
HEAT 2: Jett Schilling (USA), Adur Amatriain (EUK), Luke Brumby (AUS)
HEAT 3: Levi Slawson (USA), Marlon Harrison (AUS), Luc Lepront (RSA)
HEAT 4: Jarvis Earle (AUS), Reed Platenius (CAN), Yuma Nagasawa (JPN)
HEAT 5: Joel Vaughan (AUS), Brodi Sale (HAW), Moonjo Yahagi (JPN)
HEAT 6: Luke Thompson (RSA), Ryan Kainalo (BRA), Mitch Du Preez (RSA)
HEAT 7: Shion Crawford (HAW), Heitor Mueller (BRA), Harley Walters (AUS)
HEAT 8: Leo Casal (BRA), Taj Lindblad (USA), Sam Piter (FRA)

SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Women’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Bella Kenworthy (USA), Talia Swindal (USA), Keira Buckpitt (AUS)
HEAT 2: Ellie Harrison (AUS), Louise Lepront (RSA), Kalea Gervasi (PER)
HEAT 3: Erin Brooks (CAN), Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK), Cocona Kawase (JPN)
HEAT 4: Sierra Kerr (AUS), Anastasia Venter (RSA), Sky Brown (GBR)
HEAT 5: Zahli Kelly (AUS), Nora Liotta (HAW), Noah Klapp (DEU)
HEAT 6: Zoe Benedetto (USA), Eweleiula Wong (HAW), Kana Nakashio (JPN)
HEAT 7: Sol Aguirre (PER), Laura Rapp (BRA), Isabelle Nalu (BRA)
HEAT 8: Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN), Sophia Medina (BRA), Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)
Watch LIVE
The SAMBAZON World Junior Championships Hosted by Best Western will open on January 9 and hold a competition window through January 14, 2024. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

About the WSL
The World Surf League (WSL) is the global home of competitive surfing, crowning the undisputed World Champions since 1976 and showcasing the world’s best surfers on the world’s best waves. WSL is comprised of the Tours and Competition division, which oversees and operates more than 180 global competitions each year; Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), home of the world’s largest high-performance, human-made wave; and WSL Studios, an independent producer of unscripted and scripted projects.