Lindsay Steinriede is the 2011 ASP Women's World Longboard champion. The North American surfer secured the title in the historic first ever ASP event in China - the Swatch Girls Pro China.
The surf contest held in the Hainan Island was conquered by Chelsea Williams, who defeated Kelia Moniz in the final heat.
"I feel awesome!" Steinriede said. "I knew I didn't have control of the outcome so I was just letting it happen, and it just went my way so I'm really happy. One of the first things I came in and said to my husband after I lost was that I've had a lot worse things happen to me, I was just trying to stay positive. To be able to still be in the Title race was awesome and to actually win it, well it's just sinking in and I think I'm going to cry."
Steinriede surfed fantastic all event, putting her full repertoire and smooth style on display for the Chinese crowds on the beach, but couldn't get past the standout surfer of the event Chelsea Williams.
Steinriede won the ASP Women's World Longboard Title when the last contender standing, Kassia Meador lost to young Hawaiian Kelia Moniz in the Semifinals.
"I was devastated because I didn't want to leave it to chance, but I was more devastated because I didn't get that wave I wanted," Steinriede said. "My emotions are still up and down because I really wanted to be in the Final, but that's ok, I'll take the ASP World Title!"
Chelsea Williams was without a doubt the standout performer of the Swatch Girls Pro China, so it was only fitting to see her crowned the winner. Williams defeated Kelia Moniz in an action packed Final with the conditions turning on for the 2 best surfers of the day. Both surfers notched big scores, but it was Williams who continued her dominating run to claim her maiden ASP Women's World Longboard Tour win.
"I'm so happy to win the first ASP event in China," Williams said. "It feels amazing to be here and surf against everyone, they were all surfing really well. Fortunately for me it was on a left-hander which rarely ever happens, so I was just stoked to show what I can do on my forehand. I think this has been a longtime coming, I've come close to winning so many times so it feel amazing to finally win one."
2011 Swatch Girls Pro China | Final
Chelsea Williams (AUS) 15.33 def. Kelia Moniz (HAW) 12.36