Harrison, Neunuebel snare opening round surf titles

Great Southern pair Tony Harrison and Mike Neunuebel have both secured opening-round victories at the WA Longboard Titles, contested in powerful conditions at Yallingup main break.

Held over three days, the first round of the annual State titles had a number of Great Southern competitors but it was Albany’s Harrison and Denmark veteran Neunuebel who tasted success.

In the over-70 men’s division, Harrison finished with an impressive 23.5 score based off two finals to easily defeat Mick Marlin (7.6).

Neunuebel was also an opening round winner, claiming a thrilling over-55 men’s final. The crafty veteran scored 11.27 to win the division from Barrie McKinnon (10.76), with Brett Merifield (9.24) and Neil Anthony-Heyward (8.8) rounding out the final.

Harrison also finished second in the over-65 men’s division, his score of 12.8 based off two finals just bettered by Stan Davies (19.54).

Also on double duties, Neunuebel was fourth in the over-60 men’s.

Young Denmark surfer Gidget Neunuebel made the final of the open women’s final after a terrific weekend. She finished third with a score of 8.13 as Georgia Young (11.3) claimed the victory from Lauren Williams (8.64).

Denmark’s Michaela Ross also took part in the opening round of the series which will move to Denmark in May for round 2.