Cornwall: Young surfers top junior and open championships

Arthur Randell and Lola Bleakley have taken the honours in both the under-18s and open categories in the English National Longboard Surfing Championships.

It was a tough men’s open final at Fistral in Newquay with Randell, 18, from Porthtowan, up against talented surfers Adam Griffiths, Ben Howey and Ted Pearson.

Randell also took the under-18 national title in a close heat between Ted Pearson, Kaz Phillips and Isaac Dakin.

In both the women’s open and under-18 girls, Lola Bleakley, 17, from Sennen, was a force to be reckoned with, taking both titles against world class surfers Beth Leighfield, Mali Harbour and Sylvie Puddiphatt.

“Anyone witnessing the surfing action will agree that our athletes displayed world-class levels of athleticism and skill,” said event manager Lauren Tapscott.

“We saw a repertoire of elegant footwork, cross-stepping, hang 10s and powerful turns combining both classic and modern styles of surfing.

“This year’s competition was, in the final rounds, dominated by young talent with both our winners Arthur and Lola winning the open and junior divisions.

“A big well done to every competitor involved in this contest.”