DURBIDGE TO GUIDE CHASE FOR SURFING GOLD
AUSTRALIA’S top female and male surfers will be supported in their bid for historic gold medals at the Tokyo Olympics by one of their own – once he stops surfing himself.
Former Pipeline Master champion and pro surfer Bede Durbidge has been named as the elite program manager for Surfing Australia ahead of the sport’s Olympic debut in 2020.
Surfing is one of five sports, including skateboarding, recently added on to the Tokyo program with 40 athletes to compete at a natural wave at Tsurigasaki Beach,
Six-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore, reigning titleholder Tyler Wright and current world No.1 men’s surfer Matt Wilkinson have all indicated they will push for Olympic Games selection. Also in the mix are big names including Sally Fitzgibbons and Owen Wright and Australia’s world youth champions Macy Callaghan and Ethan Ewing.
Durbidge, who suffered near career-ending injuries surfing in Hawaii in 2015 and had a 17cm rod inserted in his back after smashing his pelvis, last year coached Hawaiian John John Florence to his world surfing title and will retire from the world tour at the end of his season to take up his new role.
“I’m honoured to take on this role as elite program manager,’’ Durbidge said.
“Coaching is something I’m so passionate about and to be able to work with Australia’s best athletes and coaches I’m just relishing the opportunity.
“I feel I have fulfilled my competitive surfing dream and next year will be perfect timing to transit into this role. Australia has a great chance of winning the first gold medals in surfing.”