Waida implemented a patient strategy over the course of the final, often holding priority for a long period of time, before catching some of the best waves seen all even. The result - 8.23 and a near-perfect 9.50, on what event commentator and Manly local Richie Lovett claimed was one of the “best waves to break at Manly in years.”
Earlier in the week, Waida was named the wildcard for the upcoming Quiksilver Pro G-Land Championship Tour event. Be sure to add him to your fantasy teams if you haven’t already.
“I’m really happy to win but the job is not finished yet for me,” Waida told the WSL. “My goal this year is to qualify for the elite WSL Championship Tour and this is a great result but I must continue to get great results. I’m looking forward to the G-Land event at home in Indonesia which starts this weekend - My surfing ability is there to compete against the world’s best and be the best in the world. I've trained hard and I will continue to train and improve - It’s a great day for me and Indonesia.”