English National Championships

Jun 15, 2026

As the podium ceremonies took place at 4pm under glorious sunshine and light winds, it was hard to believe this was the same beach that greeted competitors at 8am. The day began with challenging conditions, as the Under-16 boys paddled out on a dropping tide into gusting winds and light rain that felt more reminiscent of a winter swell than a summer championship event. However, as the competition progressed and the stakes rose, Fistral Beach delivered, producing clean 3–4ft sets and improving conditions that set the stage for a spectacular day.

Heath Gillespie in action.


The standard of surfing throughout the event was exceptional, with athletes across all divisions showcasing the depth of talent within English surfing. Every competitor arrived with one goal in mind – to become an English National Champion. After a day of intense heats and standout performances, our champions were crowned.

Sunny Ingram.

Several surfers delivered standout performances throughout the day. In the challenging morning conditions, Seb Whiteley found a diamond in the rough, scoring an impressive 8.17 on a chunky section to secure his place in the semi-finals. His combined heat total of 15.84 stood as the highest heat score of the competition before midday and set the benchmark for the rest of the field.
 
In the Under-18 Boys division, Joel Nicholson continued his impressive progression after moving up from the Under-16 ranks, where he previously claimed the Grom Search title. He demonstrated confidence and skill throughout the event, delivering powerful surfing all the way to the final. Despite a determined effort, he was unable to find the scoring opportunities he needed in the closing stages of the competition.
Lila Skinner throwing buckets.
Sunny Ingram also impressed in the Under-18 Girls division, consistently posting strong scores with powerful turns and keeping the pressure on her competitors throughout the day. However, it was Willow Smith who proved untouchable in the final. A superb 8.50 on her last wave secured both the championship title and the highest single-wave score of the event, capping off a remarkable performance.
 
Lila Skinner displayed consistency and composure throughout the Under-16 Girls division, carrying her momentum all the way to the final. Despite strong challenges from Annie Nicholls, Martha Edwards and Coco Arthur, Skinner rose to the occasion and secured the title of 2026 Caravan and Motorhome Club English National Champion.
Cairo Garcia
hitting 12 o'clock.
In the Under-16 Boys division, Cairo Garcia's determination was evident from the very start. The first surfer in the water that morning, he was already free surfing before registration had even opened. That commitment paid off as he progressed through each round and delivered a commanding performance in the final. Staying active and capitalising on every scoring opportunity, Garcia claimed his first English National Championship title in impressive fashion.
Willow Smith Under 18 Champ.

The English Nationals are incredibly proud of every athlete who competed. Reaching the podium at a national championship is no small achievement, and the level of performance across both Under-16 and Under-18 divisions was outstanding. Beyond the results, the event showcased the strength of England's surfing community—from athletes and coaches to families, friends and supporters who contribute so much to each competitor's journey.
Finally, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Caravan and Motorhome Club, whose continued support as our headline event sponsor makes our English Nationals possible.

Under-16 Girls
1st – Lila Skinner

2nd – Martha Edwards

3rd – Annie Nicholls

4th – Coco Arthur

Under-16 Boys
1st – Cairo Garcia

2nd – Seb Whiteley

3rd – Jensen Martin

4th – Harley Miller

Under-18 Girls
1st – Willow Smith

2nd – Sunny Ingram

3rd – Kaja Millward

4th – Harlyn Sykes

Under-18 Boys
1st – Heath Gillespie

2nd – Jago Tasker

3rd – Isaac Friend

4th – Joel Nicholson