Thirteen-year-old surfer breaking records as first Indigenous world champ
Teenager Leihani Zoric almost didn't compete in El Salvador, but now she's the youngest ISA Under 18 World Junior Champion in history, and the first Indigenous world champion surfer.
Leihani Zoric, a 13-year-old Indigenous surfer from Byron Bay in New South Wales, is making history as the youngest Under 18 World Junior Champion in International Surfing Association (ISA) history. Despite feeling extremely unwell, Leihani insisted on competing in El Salvador, where she ultimately became the first Indigenous world champion surfer at any level.
The young athlete, who inspired by Soli Bailey and Cathy Freeman, visualized becoming the ISA gold medallist, writing her goal down over 1,000 times. Representing Australia, the 13-year-old competed in three age divisions above her own and emerged victorious, taking home the title. Leihani's triumph came after a stellar year, which included winning the Junior Girls and Open Women's divisions at the 2026 Indigenous Surfing Titles.
Her success has not gone unnoticed, with Locana Cullen and Lucy Darragh also claiming individual golds at the World Junior Championships, while Australia secured three out of the four divisions. The World Junior Champions' success is a testament to Leihani's hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of her family and community.
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