For many young Australian surfers, this is the moment they've been waiting for all year. The 2017 Taj's Small Fries crowned seven new champions in Yallingup, Western Australia.
The event organized by former Championship Tour (CT) surfer Taj Burrow got underway in three different locations - Injidup, Yallingup, and Shallows - with a broad range of ocean conditions. In the end, the future stars of Australian surfing confirmed they're ready for the world.
"I couldn't be happier with how the event has gone, it seems to get better and better every year, and I'm stoked to be here to see the groms tear into their finals," explained a very happy Taj Burrow.
The 12th Annual Taj's Small Fries introduced a new division. The 10 & Under Mixed category saw Maverick Wilson giving his heart and soul to the waves.
In the highly competitive 16 & Under Boys division, Finn Cox was able to drop a 9.50 for an excellent backhand ride and confirmed his superiority in a final that also included Kian Martin, Seth Van Haeften, and Charlie Castleden.
"It's been the best day ever, and this is the biggest winner I've ever had. Taj is one of my favorite surfers, and I can't wait to go on the Surfing World trip. It's going to be sick," stated Finn Cox.
Emma Cattlin shone in the 16 & Under Girls division. The young talent used local break knowledge to overcome April McPherson, Arabelle Gibson, and Taiana Duncan.
"I'm off to the GromSearch National Final, so this is the perfect confidence boost before I head to North Narrabeen tonight. Thanks to Taj and all the organizers for such a great event," concluded Cattlin.
2017 Taj's Small Fries | Champions
16 & Under Boys: Finn Cox (Margaret River, WA)
16 & Under Girls: Emma Cattlin (Yallingup, WA)
14 & Under Boys: Josh Grange (Burleigh Heads, QLD)
14 & Under Girls: Coral Durant (Red Bluff, WA)
12 & Under Boys: Jack Mickle (Trigg, WA)
12 & Under Girls: Willow Hardy (Margaret River, WA)
10 & Under Mixed: Maverick Wilson (Mandurah, WA)