The Raglan Chronicle chats to Alani Morse about her recent surfing achievements at the National Champs held at Piha in January. Alani is a Raglan Area School student and is part of a young crew of surfers that have had a great result at this year’s national surfing championships.
Tell us about the national competition experience
This was an experience that I will never forget. There was so much to learn and grow from as a young surfer. I surfed in 3 divisions during the week, Open women’s, under 16 girls and u14 girls which make a super busy week so managing yourself is extremely important. There were many struggles like surfing against some of my best friends and getting stung by a jellyfish moments before my under 14 girls final which made it super hard to keep calm and focus. The pain was so intense. I gathered myself 15 minutes before my next final which was under 16 girls. I was super stoked personally with myself, getting two nines during the week. One of the 9’s was in the first minutes of my under 16 girls finals which was so exciting. I was also stoked to make the semi finals in the Open Women’s and surfing against some incredible female talent.
How does it feel to have secured the U16 national title?
I had no expectations of winning the title as there were so many amazing surfers in that division who were very determined to win so they could take a spot in the ISA world junior surfing champs. Being 12 years old I had no pressure on myself to win; I was just peaceful, surfed hard and left it in God’s hands.
Paddling out to my final heat I was still in pain from being stung on the neck by a jellyfish. With no expectations my heat started and a bomb left hand wave three times over my head came my way. I just went for it and managed to get two big hits, scoring a nine point ride which was the best feeling and then backing it up with a 5.6 to secure my victory. Best feeling ever to win this title; I was pinching myself for days afterwards. I feel so humbled to take these memories with me as a reminder of the feelings I felt being lifted up the beach.
When did you start surfing and who supported you?
I started surfing as a toddler. I loved the water so much and forced my Dad and Mum to take me out every weekend. Ever since I was very young my parents, older brother Theo, grandparents, aunty and uncles and friends all supported me and my dreams of becoming the best surfer I could be. I’ve had incredible support from the Raglan community and am so grateful to have these legends in my corner.
I’m sure there is more success to come. What is the goal for 2023 and beyond?
This year my goals are to train harder working on air surfing, tube riding, and overall surfing better on small or big waves. For my future goals I would love to represent New Zealand in the Olympics, even make it to WSL and see how far I can get.
I have a massive craving to ride amazing barrels, I want to surf them just as good as the men do if not better ;).
