News Summary
Ella McCaffray, a talented surfer from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, has claimed the top position in the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series. Following impressive performances, including a victory at the Virginia Beach Pro and a third-place finish in the Outer Banks, McCaffray has showcased her skills against tough competition. She is set to represent Team USA in the upcoming ISA World Surfing Games, highlighting her dedication to the sport and community support that fuels her success.
Cardiff-by-the-Sea – Ella McCaffray, a 22-year-old surfer from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, has claimed the top spot in the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series standings following impressive performances on the East Coast earlier this month. McCaffray won the Virginia Beach Pro on August 24 and secured a third-place finish at the WRV Outer Banks Pro just one week later. Her consistent performance this season has placed her ahead in a highly competitive field of surfers.
McCaffray’s victory at the Virginia Beach Pro came under challenging conditions, with Hurricane Erin creating 40 mph winds that led to choppy surf. Despite these difficulties, her skill was evident as she emerged victorious, followed closely by her competitors. A week later, the conditions in the Outer Banks were markedly different, described as “pretty much dead flat,” yet McCaffray still managed to maintain a strong position by finishing third.
So far this season, McCaffray has consistently performed well, finishing outside the top three in competitions only once. This remarkable feat places her among the elite surfers vying for a chance to advance to the Challenger Series, which is one step below the prestigious Championship Tour.
In addition to her recent victories, McCaffray is set to represent the United States as a member of a six-person, co-ed team during the upcoming 2025 ISA World Surfing Games in El Salvador, scheduled for September 5 to 14. She has expressed her excitement about being selected to Team USA and looks forward to the camaraderie of competing alongside familiar faces.
Training and Preparation
McCaffray’s training regimen has involved traveling to diverse surfing locations to expand her abilities in various wave conditions. After her strong showing at the Vans Jack’s Surfboards Pro, she ventured to Indonesia to gain more experience. Her time there has been described as a “huge confidence booster,” as she managed to catch one of the best barrels of her life, crucial for her development as a surfer. McCaffray has emphasized the significance of spending time in the water, regardless of the conditions, which has been a key component of her training approach.
In both Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks, McCaffray has enjoyed the support of her family and friends, who contribute to her strong sense of community in the surfing world. Her brother, Cole, also competed at the Virginia Beach Pro, securing a commendable third place in the men’s division. Building these connections has not only enhanced her experience but also bolstered her performance during competitions.
Living the Surfing Lifestyle
Leading up to the Virginia Beach event, McCaffray arrived early to practice and connect with her support network, attending a show by her musician friend Camden Hoover, which added a personal touch to her event experience. During her time in the Outer Banks, she shared accommodations in a “tiny house” with six fellow surfers, which fostered a sense of camaraderie and community among competitors. This supportive atmosphere is deemed essential for maintaining morale and sharing insights that enhance performance.
As she looks ahead to the next season, McCaffray plans to make strategic choices regarding which events to enter, carefully considering the types of waves she prefers and those that offer higher points and prizes. Despite the challenges that come with travel and competition, her dedication remains strong, supported by her family and sponsors, including Body Glove and SharpEye Surfboards.
A Grateful Journey
Throughout her surfing career, Ella McCaffray has expressed gratitude for the opportunities it has afforded her, including exploring new places and building strong relationships within her community. Her recent achievements highlight her commitment to the sport and her aspirations for what lies ahead in her surfing journey.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- The Coast News: Ella McCaffray Tops WSL Qualifying Series Standings
- San Diego Union Tribune: Ella McCaffray Begins WSL Qualifying Series Season Ranked Second
- World Surf League: Who’s in Virginia Beach Pro QS 2,000
- Wikipedia: Ella McCaffray
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Surfing
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