Billabong British National Surfing Championships - Results
9th Septemner 2002Shaun Skilton wins Billabong British National Surfing Championships
Shaun Skilton (Skippy) from Porthtowan wins the 2002 Billabong British National Surfing Championships at Croyde Bay, North Devon. In a very close final Shaun defeated last years champion John Buchorski (Sennen) on a split decision from the judges. Two judges had Shaun winning, two judges had John winning and the fifth judge had them both tied on their best three waves, however on the best two waves Shaun defeated John by 0.2 points.
Finishing third with a remarkable performance was Craig Steward (Newquay), fourth place going to Russell Mullins (Newquay) who failed to catch any of the larger set waves.
In the Women’s category Tracy Boxall (Newquay), Instructor at the National Surfing Centre, regained her title, she last won back in 1999 and 1998, making this her third National Title victory. Second place went to last year’s winner Sarah Whitely (Saunton), third Sarah Beardmore (North Devon) and fourth Sarah Bentley (St Agnes).
The Junior title was defended successfully by Johnny Fryer (Isle of Wight) in another close final defeating an inform Oli Adams (Newquay). Third place went to Andrew Griffin (Newquay) and fourth Christian Swanson (Newquay).
An impressive display of contemporary Surfing helped 13-year-old Reubyn Ash (Bude) win both the Cadets (Under 16) and Youth (Under 14) divisions. Evan Rogers (Saltburn) won the Grommets (Under 12) his first major contest.
In the Bodyboarding Mark Griffiths (Wales) won the Open, Cara Johnson won the Women’s and Alex Hickman won the Juniors. The new Kneeboard Champion is Duncan Jones.
Ben Skinner (Newquay) became the star performer in the Longboard categories winning both the Open and Junior divisions. In doing so defeating European Longboard Champion Sam Bleakley and last years Champion Lee Ryan in the process.
The event attracted over 200 competitors with record entries in most of the categories. The surf conditions varied from 2 – 4 feet, with clean wave faces allowing the surfers to perform at their best. It has been hailed as one of the most successful British Nationals in recent years.
Next year’s event location and date have yet to be decided.
This years results can be downloaded.