Kanoa Igarashi first Asian surfer on the world tour with pride

KANOA Igarashi is carrying the mantle as the first Asian surfer on the world tour with pride.And he’s showing he has plenty of talent in the process.

Surfing

KANOA Igarashi is carrying the mantle as the first Asian surfer on the world tour with pride.

And he’s showing he has plenty of talent in the process.

Born in America to Japanese parents, Igarashi represents Japan on tour and is making waves around the world as he proves he’s up to competing against the best.

The 19-year-old beat Frenchman Jeremy Flores yesterday to advance to Round 4 of competition and continue his dream start to the year.

“I feel there’s a lot of people supporting me, not just from America but especially Japan,’’ he said.

“Both my parents are Japanese and have had the Japanese culture always around me in my house and there’s been a really good balance for me growing up.

“I feel comfortable being Japanese and also American.

“There’s a lot of people that flew over here just to watch me compete and I’m really stoked to make it worthwhile (for them).’’

Igarashi is no stranger to Snapper Rocks, having travelled to the iconic beach several times through sponsors Quiksilver.

“I’ve been coming here ever since I was 10 years old, I take part in the trials and I come to the contest but this is my first time competing so it’s a different feel,’’ he said.

“It’s definitely overwhelming, it’s crazy to have the crowd roaring when you’re on the wave and you’re trying to compete.

“But I love the pressure, I love being able to finish a wave and have that content feeling.’’

Igarashi has quickly become a crowd favourite but he’s also attracting plenty of interest in Japan.

“It’s been crazy, I’ve been having messages and calls and texts and stuff,’’ he said.

“It’s been overwhelming and amazing and it makes me feel really good that I’m representing Japan really well right now.

“My whole family is watching online in Japan and loving it and a lot of people are behind me right now and I think that’s definitely helping me get these scores and results.’’