Surfers prepare for Tokyo 2020 Olympics

The 2019 Surfing Australia National Squad has wrapped up a successful two-day Olympic Readiness Camp at the Surfing Australia High Performance Centre (HPC).

With the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games now looming large, twelve squad members went into the camp that featured surf sessions, Tokyo 2020 planning sessions, group activities and guest speakers.

Bede Durbidge Elite Program Manager is happy with how the Olympic Readiness Camp went.

“The camp has been a huge success. Having the group of athletes available and here for the duration has been great. There’s been a lot of learning, a lot of questions and everyone is so excited for the 2019 calendar and the upcoming Olympics.

Two Olympians, former NSW Institute of Sport diver Matt Mitcham and current NSWIS canoe slalom world champion Jess Fox presented to the group.

“We had Matthew Mitcham come in an share his incredible journey which was fantastic, as well as Jessica Fox who is just an amazing athlete” said Durbige.

“The group is very lucky to have had that calibre of person and athlete in the room.”

Kim Crane National High Performance Director sees the camp as an important opportunity for athletes.

“Whilst our elite athletes compete on the World Championship Tour as individuals, our HP program staff, athletes and coaches commit to the importance of coming together as a group to build upon the Team Australia culture.

“This week’s camp allows us to connect, reflect, laugh, learn, plan, and prepare for performance.

“I’m proud of our group for who they are as the world’s best surfers and people.”

2019 Australian National Squad:

• Julian Wilson – QLD
• Soli Bailey – NSW
• Jack Freestone – QLD
• Mikey Wright – NSW
• Ryan Callinan – NSW
• Owen Wright – NSW
• Adrian Buchan – NSW
• Wade Carmichael – NSW
• Stephanie Gilmore – QLD
• Tyler Wright – NSW
• Sally Fitzgibbons – NSW
• Nikki van Dijk – VIC
• Bronte Macaulay – WA
• Macy Callaghan – NSW

Image Credits: Ted Grambeau / Nikon Australia