So often we get caught up in discussion about the “shoulda, coulda, woulda beens” of our sport. The young guys and girls with all the talent, but (for-whatever-reason) couldn’t make that next step in to the big leagues. With Round 1 only a few weeks away here are the handful of budding young superstars that we believe are about to take that step this Summer.
Zach Morris – Newport
“6’3, a gun swimmer and extremely talented” is what current Australian Ironman Champion and clubmate Max Brooks had to say about the teenager. Morris (17) is already one of the fastest swimmers in the sport, and with his work ethic and talent, we are expecting big things from Zach all summer.
Finn Askew – Newport
Another promising young talent from the Northern Beaches is Finn Askew. Finn has ultra-elite fitness, He’s lightning quick across the sand, and most importantly just “absolutely froths” clubbies. When Finn gets a few hairs on chest and gets that ski moving he’s going to be a real problem.
Kaan Karadag – Kurrawa
Already a Junior Australian Rep Kaan Karadag has flown under the radar, but is now quickly becoming a threat in any board or Ironman race. Current Summer of Surf Board Race Champion Matt Bevilacqua said “Very rarely do you see young athletes who are gifted with natural talented, but also have the same amount of humility. It’s an honour to train beside him”.
Tex Dixon – Surfers Paradise
From the rough streets of Noosa, 17-year-old Texas Dixon made the move to Surfers Paradise this year, and its already paying dividends. Tex is becoming a rare “triple threat” ironman with 3 strong disciplines including a weapon of board leg. Ironman and training partner Max Beattie was quick to sing his praises “2 things I’ve learned about Tex since he has joined our club, don’t challenge him to a rap battle, or a flat water board race”.
Joe Collins – Northcliffe
The young kiwi prodigy training out the Kev Morrison Ironman Academy at Northcliffe, is THE one to watch from across the ditch. From the cold waters of Fitzroy, New Zealand, Collins has also represented his country at the top level and is getting better every time he races. After a strong showing at the International Surf Challenge in South Africa, it was obvious that Joe belongs at the top level and it’s only a matter of time. Countryman and Mentor of Collins, Cory Taylor said “Yeah bro! Joe’s mean as”.
With round 1 only 3 weeks away, we can’t to see these boys mix it up with the best surf athletes in the world.
