For the Swatch Girls Pro China 2011, the world’s best female longboard surfers flocked to Hainan – China’s Hawaii – to surf for the title of the Women’s World Longboard Championship. Heat after heat, the large crowds got to enjoy thrilling duels. The turquoise South China Sea waves continued to build throughout the day under the palm-fringed, mountain-backed point in the bay. The girls amazed the Chinese fans with their mix of classic lines and modern progression, performed with trademark feminine grace.
Despite the seemingly relaxed and elegant maneuvers – there where two champions to be announced and the competition was hard-fought!
Going into the event – any of the 32 riders had the chance to grab the longboard title. Despite of Lindsay Steinriede (USA), Jennifer Smith (USA) and Ophelie Ah-Kouen (REU) going into the competition as favorites, Chelsea Williams (AUS) and Kelia Moniz (HAW) were without a doubt the standout performers of the event.
In an action packed final, Chelsea carved her way to victory with powerful turns, defeating her worthy opponent Keila by merely a single point!
The 23-year old Australian claims her first ASP victory and at the same time makes surfing history by winning the first ever ASP contest in China!
With a solid 5th position, Lindsay Steinriede (USA) managed to maintain her lead in the overall ranking and took home this year’s title as ASP Women’s World Longboard Champion.
