Huntington Beach put the world's best longboarders' patience to the test with Elimination Round bouts unraveling at the Lexus US Open of Surfing.
From Waikīkī's standouts, 2023 World Longboard Champ, Kai Sallas and perennial World Title threat Sophia Culhane paved the way into the Round of 16 for Hawaii's contender. Plus, Kai Ellice-Flint clutched up in the face of elimination. Natsumi Taoka put on a showcase of poise and grace under pressure as the Longboard Tour veteran saved her season start in defining form. Surfline's forecast shows there's consistent swell on the horizon.
The Eero Top 5 included 13-year-old Ginger Caimi taking the spotlight, Declan Wyton's signature drop-knee style taking him into the Round of 16 before fellow Aussie Tully White's buzzer-beater heroics. Plus, 2018 World Longboard Champ, "Steezy" Steven Sawyer put his style on full display in tough conditions. The No. 1 spot goes to Sophia Culhane's impeccable Elimination Round turnaround to set up a stacked Round of 16.