Larry Fisher runner up at the Billabong Pro Whangamata!
Raglan surfer and Hughes Surfboards team rider, Larry Fisher has surfed to an impressive runner up finish at the Billabong Pro Whangamata on the weekend.
Fisher, who was said to have showcased some of his best surfing of his career, was in age defying form, notching up several 8+ point rides in his earlier heats while on way to the final.
Fisher scored 14.37 in the final out of a possible 20, after starting out with a 7.8 point ride for two huge forehand hacks. Requiring an 8.44 to take the lead Fisher on the hooter, took of on a right hander and smashed what could have been the turn of the contest, but sadly fell on his next maneuver, leaving him to settle for second place.
“I thought he was ripping the whole event, I have never seen him surf that good before so I am stoked form him actually” commended event winner, Bobby Hansen of Fisher’s performance.
At a ripe age of 38, Fishers performance on the weekend was nothing short of inspiring. As the former coach to the New Zealand Junior Surf Team, and current teacher and coach of the Raglan Area School Surfing Academy, he defiantly proved to all his pupils and understudy’s that he can not only talk the talk, but walk the walk.
When asked about the board he was riding in the competition, a Hughes Surfboards XTR Gherkin, he had this to say: "The Gherkin is the perfect small wave board. Its fast, maintains speed through flat sections, is loose in the pocket, while also holding when in the pocket. Not only does it excel in small waves, but will also work in bowly waves where driving off the rail is needed."
Larry wasint the only team rider to place in the finals. In the Billabong Grom Series the Sansom twin’s, Gabriela and Bianca impressed, surfing into the final of the Under 16 Girls event. This time around, Gabriela got the nod over her sister, placing second, while Bianca was one behind her in 3rd place.
For a full run down of the event click here : http://www.surfingnz.co.nz/hansen_completes_comeback_at_billabong_pro.htm
