Kana Nakashio of Japan and Caleb Tancred of Australia have emerged victorious at the 2025 Billabong Tahara Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 6000 event held at Long Beach in Tahara City, Japan. The competition saw a strong field of Asia Pacific surfers battling for crucial Challenger Series qualification points in small, demanding waves throughout the week.
Key Takeaways
- Kana Nakashio secured her first QS 6000 win, propelling her to the top of the Bonsoy Asia Super Series rankings.
- Caleb Tancred, in a remarkable comeback, claimed his biggest career victory.
- Both surfers overcame challenging two-foot conditions, emphasizing wave selection.
Nakashio’s Dominance and Ranking Leap
Kana Nakashio continued her impressive form, following a recent runner-up finish with a victory over compatriot Rita Suzuki in the women’s final. Despite the slowing ocean conditions, Nakashio managed a two-wave total of 7.83 to clinch the win. Her performance has placed her at the forefront of the Bonsoy Asia Super Series, with only two events remaining in the season. Nakashio expressed her determination to maintain this momentum heading into the Challenger Series event in Portugal.
Tancred’s Triumphant Return
Caleb Tancred made a significant comeback to competitive surfing, securing his most substantial career win. After a nearly five-year hiatus, the talented natural-footer from the NSW Central Coast has been steadily re-entering the QS circuit. In a closely contested final against Alister Reginato of Australia, Tancred, despite a slow start, found crucial waves to post a winning total of 9.60 with his powerful backside snaps. This victory positions him second in the Australia/Oceania regional rankings, bolstering his aspirations for Challenger Series qualification in 2026.
Finals Day Showdown
Finals day at the Billabong Tahara Pro was characterized by challenging one to two-foot waves, making strategic wave selection paramount for the competitors. The men’s semifinals featured an all-Australian lineup, with Lennix Smith, Taj Stokes, Alister Reginato, and Caleb Tancred all advancing. On the women’s side, alongside Nakashio and Suzuki, Anon Matsuoka and Keira Buckpitt also reached the semifinals, guaranteeing significant results for their careers. The event window for the 2025 Billabong Tahara Pro QS 6000 ran from September 16 to 21, 2025.
Sources
- Kana Nakashio and Caleb Tancred Win 2025 Billabong Tahara Pro QS 6000, World Surf League.
- Stage Set For Finals Day at Billabong Tahara Pro QS 6000, World Surf League.
