A pair of Mandurah bodyboarders have claimed the title of the two best cadet bodyboarders in the country after taking out first and second in the under 16s Australian Bodyboarding Titles.
Long-time mates Matt Hanks and Henry Gibson took out first and second in the tournament respectively when they beat New South Wales and Queensland in the final, claiming the title of Australia’s best young bodyboarding pair.
“It was just really good to get the win,” Hanks said.
“It’s always good to be out there with a mate and perform well, so it was nice to win it all.”
The win was a long time coming for the duo, who had their Australian final called off last year due to a shark in the water.
“We were actually in the water at the time and the shark was only a couple of metres away from me,” Gibson said.
“I was pretty hesitant to get back in the water after that so it’s nice to sort of overcome that and get good results this time around.”
The Falcon duo have each been bodyboarding for about three years, and have already compiled impressive resumes.
They regularly compete together and have notched a number of awards during their competitive careers.
“It’s great to be able to surf with a mate anytime, so to compete with one is pretty awesome,” Gibson said.
“It sort of keeps you in a rhythm.”
The duo have been recognised with sponsorship, and thanked their manager for helping them take out the title.
“Our manager Ian Goldthorpe is an absolute legend, he always helps us out and makes sure we’re well organised,” Gibson said.
“Our sponsors also help us out with heaps of gear. Good Earth Surf Shop, Reeflex Wetsuits and Menace Clothing have really helped us along the way.”
In 2017, the pair will compete in the under 18s category, where the winner will be rewarded with a trip to Chile to test themselves in the World Bodyboarding Games.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
