Australian surfer Laura Enever smashes world record by conquering colossal wave
Australian surfer Laura Enever triumphs, claiming the world record for conquering the largest wave ever paddled into by a woman, showcasing her remarkable ability to push boundaries in the surfing world
Laura Enever, an Australian surfer, can finally rejoice in officially setting a new world record for paddling into the largest wave ever ridden by a woman. The size of the wave, measuring approximately 13.3 meters (43.6 feet), has been verified by Guinness World Records and the World Surf League (WSL). This remarkable achievement occurred on January 22 in Hawaii.
Caroline Marks, representing the United States, celebrates her victory in the Final at the SHISEIDO Tahiti Pro held on August 16, 2023 in Teahupoo, Tahiti, French Polynesia. (Photo by Matt Dunbar/World Surf League via Getty Images)
Matt Dunbar/World Surf League/Getty Images
How Caroline Marks capitalized on a special connection with the ocean to win her first surfing world title
"I realized its enormity as I paddled towards it, and as I caught the wave and looked down, I knew without a doubt that it was the largest wave I had ever conquered," Enever expressed, as reported by the WSL.
"I recognized it as the pinnacle moment in my life, with every aspect harmoniously aligning and my unwavering commitment and self-belief propelling me forward. The experience represented a significant breakthrough in my surfing journey and serves as a profound and cherished milestone in my professional career."
Receiving the award months later feels amazing; I can't believe it.
Paddling-in entails surfers independently entering waves instead of being towed-in by a jet-ski to reach the most massive breaks.
The previous record was established eight years ago when professional surfer Andrea Moller, hailing from Brazil, conquered a 12.8-meter (approximately 42-foot) wave in Hawaii.
Expressing gratitude, 31-year-old Enever acknowledges the trailblazing efforts of the previous generation of female surfers who paved the path for her own accomplishments. Their inspiration motivated her to pursue the sport.
Pushing boundaries
The Australian hopes her own career will inspire the next generation of girls to follow suit.
"Appreciation goes out to all the incredible women, and I am constantly filled with admiration," expressed Enever.
"Previously, this record was held by Andrea Moller, and it is a privilege to now hold that record and continue to advance the realm of big wave surfing. I am confident that the upcoming female big wave surfers, the future generation, will achieve the same feat."
Enever began surfing at the age of 11 and quickly rose to prominence in her junior career, earning the title of World Junior Champion in 2009.
Following her junior success, she qualified for the WSL Championship Tour, where she competed for a impressive seven-year span.
Video Ad Feedback
He loves giant waves, hates being underwater
01:30
- Source:
CNN
Laura's relentless pursuit of pushing herself to the limits has led her to participate in WSL Big Wave events, marking a significant achievement. WSL Chief of Sport Jessi Miley-Dyer expressed huge congratulations for this remarkable feat.
"Laura is an awe-inspiring individual who exudes fearlessness and unwavering dedication. It fills me with immense pride to honor and recognize her remarkable achievements. These astonishing world records provide us with a wonderful opportunity to highlight remarkable athletes such as Laura, who continually challenge the limits of Big Wave surfing."
In 2016, Aaron Gold, an American surfer, etched his name in history by conquering an astounding 19.2-meter (approximately 63-foot) wave off the coast of Hawaii, securing the ultimate paddle-in surfing record.
Germanys Sebastian Steudtner owns the record for the biggest wave ever surfed, riding a 26.21-meter (about 86-foot) whopper in 2020.
