Sam Christianson brings home an ISA Copper Medal as the South African Longboard Team finishes 10th out of 37 nations at the 2026 ISA World Longboard Championship.
South African longboarding has plenty to celebrate following an outstanding performance at the 2026 ISA World Longboard Championship, held at El Sunzal, El Salvador, from 16–22 October.
Leading the charge was Sam Christianson, who delivered a sensational performance to finish fourth in the world, claiming the prestigious ISA Copper Medal in the Open Men’s division.
Christianson impressed throughout the championship, including a commanding 15.07-point heat victory in Round 2. His determination and consistency saw him battle through to the World Championship final, where he competed against some of the biggest names in international longboarding.
His medal adds another proud chapter to South Africa’s longboarding legacy and is a tremendous achievement for the three-time South African Longboard Champion.
Strong performances across the South African team
Making his ISA World Championship debut, Shane Fourie showed tremendous determination in the Open Men’s division. Fourie fought his way through the repechage rounds, advancing with an 8.70-point heat total before finishing equal 29th overall.
Christy Gilmour delivered some exciting performances in the Open Women’s division, progressing through her opening repechage heat with 9.23 points. Her campaign ended in a nail-biting contest where she scored 10.04, missing advancement by just 0.56 points. Gilmour finished equal 33rd overall.
Also making her ISA World Championship debut, Cally Taylor proudly represented South Africa in the Open Women’s division. Facing experienced international opposition, Taylor gained valuable experience on the world stage, finishing equal 49th overall.
.Together, the four athletes secured an impressive 10th place out of 37 nations, earning 1,570 points for South Africa. A proud moment for South African surfing
Surfing South Africa General Manager Danielle Powis congratulated the team on their achievements.
“What an incredible achievement for South African longboarding! Sam, bringing home a World Championship medal is truly special, and we couldn’t be prouder.
“Congratulations to Shane, Christy and Cally for representing South Africa with such pride and with a top 10 finish What a fantastic team achievement and a testament to the talent and potential of South African longboarding. You’ve made your country proud and inspired the next generation of surfers!”
Surfing South Africa extends its sincere appreciation to South African Longboard Surfing, the athletes’ families, coaches, sponsors and supporters who helped make this international campaign possible.
Congratulations to Sam, Shane, Christy and Cally. You have made South Africa incredibly proud!
—
ENDS
Issued by: Surfing South Africa
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