Lacanau, France – Johanne Defay (REU), 15, became the youngest surfer to claim the ASP European Women’s Junior title after placing 3rd in the ASP Grade-2 Oakley Pro Junior today. Defay, who finished her 2009 campaign with a third final in four events, showed she was the most consistent competitor this year and will represent ASP Europe in the ASP Women’s World Junior Championships (WJC) at Narabeen next January along with regional No. 2 Alizee Arnaud (Hossegor, FRA).
"It’s pretty unbelievable to win the title," Defay said. "I never thought of that before coming to Europe and starting touring but it appeared more and more makeable and I am so happy to grab that crown. I made three finals in four events, the waves were tough today and I am not really at ease in small conditions so I couldn’t do any better. It’s been a very close race and I am glad to finish on top of the ratings."
Defay, who raised her regional title trophy in front of a massive and cheering crown, will be much expected for her first appearance in the ASP Women’s WJC, the Reunion island born surfer having the skills to cause some upset if the swell offers consistency.
"I am stoked to get that spot into the WJC in January," Defay said. "I’ve been there already but never as a competitor and it’s going to be hard, but it’s great to become part of that lucky pack and get a chance to surf with the world’s best Under-21 female surfers."
Visit www.aspeurope.com and http://oakleyprojunior.com for results, photos and news of the ASP Grade-2 Oakley Pro Junior
ASP Grade-2 OAKLEY PRO JUNIOR RESULTS
Women’s Final
1st, Pauline Ado (FRA), 15.96 pts
2nd, Justine Dupont (FRA), 12.84 pts
3rd, Johanne Defay (REU), 11.94 pts
4th, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF), 9.33 pts
Women’s Semifinals
Heat 1: Justine Dupont (FRA) 14.50 pts, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 9.06 pts, Garazi Sanchez (EUK) 7.30 pts, Marie Dejean (FRA) 7.14 pts
Heat 2: Pauline Ado (FRA) 9.17 pts, Joanne Defay (REU) 8.14 pts, Joanne Panzini (FRA) 7.83 pts, Maud Lecar (FRA) 7.10 pts
ASP EUROPEAN WOMEN’S PRO JUNIOR FINAL RATINGS
1st, Johanne Defay (REU)
2nd, Alizee Arnaud (FRA)
3rd, Marie Dejean (FRA)
4th, Garazi Sanchez (EUK)
<5th, Justine Dupont (FRA)
