The HTA Sunset Pro, a World Surf League Qualifying Series (WSL) 2,000-level event, concluded in spectacular fashion at Sunset Beach, Oahu. Fifteen-year-old Kiara Goold of Tahiti and Hawaii’s Finn McGill emerged victorious, claiming their respective titles in powerful eight-to-twelve-foot waves. Both surfers delivered standout performances throughout the competition, culminating in memorable wins at the legendary surf break.
Key Takeaways
- Kiara Goold, at just 15, secured her maiden QS victory with an impressive heat total.
- Finn McGill achieved his second career QS win and his first on home soil.
- Both champions have significantly boosted their rankings and are poised for future success.
Teenage Phenom Kiara Goold Claims Maiden QS Victory
Fifteen-year-old Kiara Goold etched her name into Sunset Beach history with a dominant performance at the HTA Sunset Pro. She showcased remarkable poise and skill, winning every heat from the quarterfinals onwards. In the final, Goold posted a commanding 16.34 heat total, overcoming strong competition from Moana Jones Wong, Malia Lima, and Aelan Vaast. Her exceptional 8.67 wave score early in the final set the tone, followed by a crucial 7.67 that put her opponents in a combination situation. This victory places Goold at No. 3 in the regional rankings and marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
Finn McGill Seizes Long-Awaited HTA Sunset Pro Title
For Finn McGill, the HTA Sunset Pro victory was a hard-earned triumph, marking his second career QS win and his first at the iconic Sunset Beach. After several runner-up finishes at the venue, McGill finally broke through, defeating a formidable lineup in the final that included Championship Tour (CT) mainstay Barron Mamiya, Joshua Moniz, and Kingston Panebianco. McGill’s near-perfect 9.00 wave score was a highlight of his performance, ultimately leading him to victory. This win propels McGill to the No. 1 spot in the regional rankings, solidifying his position as a top contender.
Runner-Up Finishes and What’s Next
Moana Jones Wong and Joshua Moniz both delivered strong performances to reach their respective finals, earning crucial points and runner-up finishes. Jones Wong maintains her No. 1 regional ranking, while Moniz, a previous winner at Pipeline and Haleʻiwa, moves to No. 5. The focus now shifts to the HTA HIC Haleʻiwa Pro, the next event on the schedule, which begins on November 29th and will also feature longboard competitions.
Sources
- Kiara Goold and Finn McGill Win HTA Sunset Pro, World Surf League.
- Highlights: HTA Sunset Pro – Finals Day, Surf News Network.
- Highlights: HTA Sunset Pro – Finals Day, World Surf League.
- Results – HTA Sunset Pro 2025, World Surf League.
