New Zealand Billy Stairmand announced himself on the world surfing stage in 2011 when he beat Kelly Slater at Margaret River. For the natural footer raised at New Zealand’s best wave of Raglan Bay, it was the start of a ten-year professional career that has seen him qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games.

A talented aerialist and an undervalued power surfer, Stairmand has managed throughout his career to put his smallish frame to full use. His technique has been groomed, surfing the points and beachies the country is renowned for.

In 2014 he came closest to CT qualification where after being in the top echelons of the QS he faded to finish in the no. 29 spot. Since then he has been a reliable and consistent competitor, as well as known for bringing positive energy and plenty of laughs to all stops around the world.

In 2019 he secured an Olympic selection through his performances at the ISA World Surfing Games. For the seven-time New Zealand champion representing his country, known for always punching far above their weight in the Games, it was a fitting reward for one of the country’s best ever surfers.

Instagram: @billystairmand