The Indian Ocean and Francophonie Cup concluded with impressive performances from South Africa's surfing team on Reunion Island. Competing against surfers from across the globe, Zoe Steyn and Dan Emslie, both from East London, proudly secured podium finishes in their respective finals.

South African Highlights

Powerful goofy-footer Zoe Steyn demonstrated skill and determination throughout the event but was narrowly defeated in the final by Aelan Vaast from New Aquitaine, finishing in second place in the Women's Division.

Similarly, Dan Emslie, who had been a standout performer all week and won the Indian Ocean event earlier in the competition, faced challenging conditions during the final. Struggling to find scoring waves at Trois-Bassins' shifting peaks, Emslie secured third place in the Men's Division.

Reflections From Team Coach

“It has been an absolute pleasure to coach such a talented South African team at the Coupe de Surf Francophonie et Ocean Indien,” said team coach Liam Wood.

Wood praised the high standard of competition, adding:
“Reunion and the French federation opened their arms to South Africa. The standard of surfing was truly high, and the future of surfing from the Pacific and Indian Ocean countries will be something to reckon with. Zoe, Dan, Anastasia, and Lorenzo stood out throughout the competition, and I am proud of their professionalism and the high level of surfing they brought. They flew the South African flag high!”

Wood also expressed gratitude to Surfing South Africa, the French Surfing Federation, and the Reunion Surf League for organising an unforgettable competition, while looking forward to future events.

About the Competition

The event, held from November 16 to 24 in Reunion Island, was organised by the Reunion Surf League and supported by the Reunion Region and the French Surfing Federation. Around 40 competitors under the age of 21 participated, representing South Africa, India, Mauritius, Senegal, Tahiti, New Aquitaine, and Reunion Island.

South African Team Members

• Zoe Steyn (East London)
• Daniel Emslie (East London)
• Anastasia Venter (Jeffreys Bay)
• Lorenzo Perels (Jeffreys Bay)
• Coach: Liam Wood
• Team Manager: Danielle Powis

Women’s Final Results

1. Aelan Vaast (New Aquitaine) – 11.33
2. Zoë Steyn (South Africa) – 7.50
3. Kahili Simon (Tahiti) – 6.63
4. Miliani Simon (Tahiti) – 6.60

Men’s Final Results

1. Pierre Lamothe (New Aquitaine) – 12.70
2. Elijah Chort (New Aquitaine) – 9.97
3. Daniel Emslie (South Africa) – 9.66
4. Anbarasu Kishore (India) – 7.74

Visit Surfing South Africa to read more about South African successes at the event.

Press Release Submitted By

Company Name: Surfing South Africa
Website: https://surfingsouthafrica.co.za

Total Words: 467

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Zoe Steyn Second Dan Emslie Third in Indian Ocean and Francophonie Cup

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