The Huntington Beach Longboard Classic was the first stop on the World Surf League’s Longboard tour for 2023, creating a one-of-a-kind festival atmosphere for the world’s top longboarders.
Taking place Saturday, July 29 – Sunday, Aug. 6, the men’s, and women’s finals had an unusual twist as Hawaiian cousins Kaniela Stewart (15.73) and Kelis Kaloepa’a (14.14) were the winners in the event. Kelis started the season as the women’s No.2 ranked longboard surfer in the world before her victory. Women’s Final: 1. Kelis Kaleopa’a – 14.14; 2. Honolua Bloomfield – 13.73.
Kaniela Stewart’s victory in the men’s final was a bit of redemption after falling short last year to this year’s runner up Taylor Jensen. Men’s Final: 1. Kaniela Stewart – 15.73; 2. Taylor Jensen – 12.43.
The season’s timeframe is designed to make travel more accessible for athletes to compete. The 2023 locations include celebrated events and point-breaks from around the world. More information can be found online at www.worldsurfleague.com.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedermedia.com.
