Cloud 9, Siargao – In a stunning display of talent, 17-year-old Sierra Kerr captivated spectators at the Siargao International Surfing Cup, part of the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series, held on the renowned Cloud 9 reef. The competition reached a thrilling peak on the fourth day, featuring six-foot barrels that provided the perfect backdrop for Kerr’s impressive performance.
During the Round of 32, Kerr secured a remarkable score of 18.03 points, the highest of the round. She opened her heat with a solid barrel ride, followed by an ambitious attempt to catch a left wave that ended in a fall, yet still earned her an 8.83. On her second wave, Kerr executed a sharp takeoff followed by an impressive rail gouge-to-cutty maneuver, scoring a 9.20 and showcasing her skills honed through years of practice.
As the tide shifted, Kerr took to the air on her third wave, attempting a massive straight air maneuver. Although she fell hard, the attempt demonstrated her fearlessness. With just 10 seconds remaining in her heat and already leading comfortably, Kerr executed a daring airdrop into a hollow wave, managing to tuck under the barrel just before being engulfed by the foamball.
“The waves were super fun,” Kerr remarked after her heat. “I ended up getting a couple good ones, like an 8 and a 9. I didn’t even know it was a 9 until I came in. I’m excited to get into the Round of 16 and get some more waves. Hopefully, the swell should be getting better, and I can catch some good barrels.”
The event was temporarily halted following Kerr’s heat due to low tide, while viewers watched other competitors struggle to find their rhythm in the challenging conditions. By dominating her heat, Kerr reaffirmed her reputation as a formidable contender in the water. The reigning World Junior Champion previously secured her title in smoother conditions in Oceanside in January 2024, but her skills have sharpened through extensive travel to world-class surf spots alongside her father, Josh Kerr, a respected figure in the surfing community.
Looking ahead, Sierra plans to release another video edit, titled “Kerrazyness,” before the year’s end. “I’ve always aimed to release two edits and graduate high school before I try to qualify for the tour,” she shared. “I’m thankful to be on the path of my dreams.”
At just 17, Kerr is among a talented group of young women making waves on the Championship Tour. With competitors like Caity Simmers (18), who won the championship last year, and Sawyer Lindblad (19), the Rookie of the Year, the future looks bright for this new generation. Kerr made her CT debut as a wildcard at the Fiji Pro this past August, finishing in a commendable equal ninth, and she is expected to make a significant impact on the tour in 2025.
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