SURFING

Three Surf Coast surfers have returned from the Australian Longboard Titles as national champions, with first-time winner Angela King, veteran Greg Brown and history-maker Jenene Nelson each claiming gold at Cabarita Beach.

Nelson is chaired up the beach after her win. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

King claimed the over-40 women’s crown in her debut season in the division, while Brown extended his decorated career with another national title in the over-55 men’s competition.

Nelson rounded out the Victorian success by becoming the inaugural Australian champion in the new over-70 women’s division.

Angela King glides on the nose of her board. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

For King, the title was made more meaningful because she was competing alongside eldest daughter Delilah, who lined up in the under-18 girls division.

“It was so exciting to win the over-40 women’s this year,” the Torquay surfer said.

Angela King won the over-40 women’s Australian title. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

“I’ve never done it before.

“I used to compete when I was younger, and this year I came back to give it a go because my daughter was in the under-18s and I wanted to surf with her.”

Greg Brown has now topped more than 20 Australian titles. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

Brown’s victory added another Australian title to a career that now spans more than 20 national championships.

“I’d like to give a massive thank you to the Victorian Team, or the ‘Vic Mafia’ as we call ourselves,” the Lorne resident said.

“They’re an incredible bunch and the support they give is amazing – they’re always down on the beach cheering me on through every heat.

Brown throws his board off the roof of a wave. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

“And, of course, a huge thank you to my wife, who is always there supporting me every step of the way.”

Nelson became the inaugural Australian champion in the new over-70 women’s division, the first time the age group has featured at the national titles.

Angela King won her first over-40 women’s crown at Cabarita Beach, near Byron Bay. Photo: Surfing Australia.

 

“I love this sport because even if you’re over 70, you can still do this,” she said. “Every day you wake up, you can achieve what you put your mind to.

“Come on over-70s ladies, let’s completely fill this division.”