Nikki van Dijk qualifies for the 2014 ASP Women’s World Tour

PLAYA DE PANTIN, Galicia – Spain – September 2, 2013
Surfer Nikki van Dijk (AUS) 18, has qualified for the 2014 ASP Women’s World Tour with victory at the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) 6-Star Pantin Classic Galicia Pro.

In 4-5 foot surf, the 2012 ASP World Junior Champion claimed the crucial win over compatriot Dimity Stoyle at the final stop on the 2013 ASP Women’s Qualifying Series.

Van Dijk was the stand-out surfer of the day, displaying commitment and radical manoeuvres as she battled the powerful offshore winds reminiscent of her home-town Phillip Island, Victoria.

“I feel amazing, I’m so thankful for the support I’ve had, like my sister’s coming with me,” van Dijk stated. “I’m so happy I’ve finally done it! I was so nervous about the whole ranking’s thing and it’s easy to get caught up in all that, so the previous event in France was a bit of a speed bump to my goal, but it kind of made me wake up and realise I could do it without worrying too much and just being myself.”

Van Dijk will officially join the elite ASP Women’s Top 17 next season, fulfilling a long time personal goal. Having had the opportunity to surf against the world’s best as a Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach wildcard competitor, she will compete among the world’s best and vie for a world title.

“I definitely look up to Steph Gilmore, Carissa, Sally and all of them,” van Dijk admitted. “I cannot wait to surf against them again, I’ve been a wildcard in a couple of events but this time it’s for real!”

With a six month break until the tour begins, van Dijk will savour her victory and qualification before commencing training for 2014.