When the World Surf League Championship Tour arrives in Raglan this May, one of the country’s most accomplished surfers will be paddling out on familiar ground.
Billy Stairmand has secured a wildcard into the New Zealand Pro, putting him in the draw against the world’s best, this time on the wave he knows better than most.
“This is crazy and really surreal for me, and I’ve been pretty emotional since getting the news,” he said.
He may be one of New Zealand’s most decorated surfers, but you’re just as likely to find Billy most days around Raglan playing a round of golf or grabbing a meal in town.
Raised here, Billy’s career has taken him to Olympic competition and events around the world, but the chance to compete at home carries a different weight. The long left-hand point break beneath Mt Karioi is a wave he knows inside out.
Billy has been working towards this level for most of his career. A two-time Olympian and nine-time New Zealand champion, he has spent more than 15 years competing on the Qualifying Series and Challenger Series, often close to breaking through to the Championship Tour.
He first drew international attention in 2011 when he defeated 11-time world champion Kelly Slater at Margaret River.
“I’ve been on the QS and Challenger Series for over 15 years now, knocking on the door of the Championship Tour and have come close a few times. But now, to get that opportunity and for it to be at home, in my backyard and in front of all of my friends, family and community and country, is such a huge honour and privilege.”
Raglan’s point break is a different prospect to most stops on tour, long and technical in places. Billy has spent more than three decades surfing it. That familiarity doesn’t guarantee results, but it gives him an edge when it comes to figuring out the wave.
Billy will be one of three New Zealand surfers in the draw, with Taranaki’s Tom Butland and fellow local Raglan surfer Alani Morse also securing wildcard spots for the Raglan leg of the World Surf League Championship Tour next month.
“The Championship Tour coming to New Zealand is such a huge opportunity for everyone, not only to compete for a spot in the main event but to see the world’s best up close and in waves they get to surf,” Billy said.
“That does so much for a young aspiring surfer, so this is such a big deal for all New Zealanders.”
For the town, the event is as much about community as competition.
“It’s really exciting that there will be three Kiwis in the event,” Billy said. “Raglan is a beautiful little town with amazing waves, so I’m so stoked to see the world’s best get to experience this place.”
“It’s going to be an amazing experience for all of the community, and I can’t wait.”
At 36, Billy is one of the more experienced surfers in the field, but he remains active on the international circuit and continues to perform at a high level. He enters the event with form, experience and a deep understanding of the conditions.
For locals watching from the hill or the rocks, the storyline is straightforward. Billy will be out there at home taking on the best in the world.
