TEAM Australia, captained by Gerroa’s Sally Fitzgibbons, is off to a solid start at the 2018 UR International Surfing Association (ISA) World Surfing Games in Japan with five of the six-strong team advancing through round one with heat wins.
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Captain Fitzgibbons top-scored for the Aussie girls in round one, winning her heat with a 12.30 point heat total in solid typhoon swell conditions.
"This is my first time in Japan and I am excited to experience the beautiful surf culture that this country has to offer,” Fitzgibbons said.
“Seeing all the other teams arrive creates a special energy.
“It makes me realise that this is bigger than just an individual performance.
"It is so motivating to come here and surf for my country.
“We are aiming for the Olympics, but also beyond that, trying to create a strong culture that will carry our team into the future."
Kai Tandler is the standout Australian in the men’s draw, taking victory comfortably with an 11.57 point heat total in round one and a second place 13.23 point heat total in round two to advance through to round three.
All three Australian girls remain in the main draw with Holly Wawn already through to round three.
Sally Fitzgibbons and Phillip Anderson are set to surf their round two heats on Monday or Tuesday.
Dextar Muskens was unable to advance through round one after drawing a tough heat against the likes of New Zealand’s Billy Stairmand and Indonesian super stat Rio Waida.
