Jared Houston has claimed the Itacoatiara Pro 2014, held in Niteroi, Brazil.
The South African bodyboarder defeated former world champion Pierre Louis Costes, in the decisive heat, with thick six-foot waves pumping in the Brazilian wedge.
Houston had a tough clash in the quarterfinals, as he had to beat an in-form Mike Stewart. The Hawaiian proved that age is no barrier, and forced Jared to give all he had.
"I tell you what," said Houston. "I hope I'm still surfing like that when I'm his age," he added. The South African found another former world champion in the semifinal: Amaury Lavernhe. The French surfed clean slabs, but Houston wanted to win in Itacoatiara.
In the final heat, Jared Houston showed total commitment and tasted victory when the final siren blew. He's leading the 2014 APB World Tour rankings.
"Oh man, I am just so stoked. I've been working hard this year, and it feels so good to have a reward like this," added Jared Houston.
Itacoatiara Pro 2014 Final
Jared Houston (ZAF), 13.65 def. Pierre Louis Costes (FRA), 11.75