A single, monstrous wave that exploded off Sydney’s coast on Good Friday has earned Freshwater surfer and family man Tom Myers one of the most coveted awards in global surfing, the Men’s Ride of the Year, at a major ceremony in California.
From the Fire Station to the World Stage
At a glittering awards ceremony in Newport Beach’s Lido Theater on the evening of September 13, Tom Myers stood among the world’s elite big-wave surfers and accepted the sport’s top honour. The event’s MC, Bill Sharp, a celebrated co-producer for HBO’s 100-Foot Wave, presented the award to the Australian.
Myers reportedly expressed his disbelief, explaining to the audience that with two jobs, he doesn’t have the luxury of chasing swells full-time. He said for a massive swell to appear and for him to be able to call in sick to surf was an incredible opportunity that led to an unbelievable outcome. He shared his immense gratitude for the event organisers who keep the spirit of big-wave surfing alive.
A Global Contest of Titans
The Big Wave Challenge is not a typical, single-day surfing contest. Instead, it’s a year-long competition where surfers and videographers from around the globe submit footage of their most incredible rides. The awards ceremony is the grand finale, honouring the best performances across the entire season.
The competition is truly global, with this year’s winning waves coming from legendary and dangerous breaks like Mavericks in California, Jaws in Hawaii, and Punta de Lobos in Chile. With a range of categories including Biggest Wave, Best Paddle-in, and even Wipeout of the Year, the event celebrates every facet of high-stakes surfing, making it one of the most respected events in the sport.
The Wave That Shook Sydney
The win stemmed from an extraordinary ride on Good Friday earlier this year. Myers conquered a monster five-metre wave at the infamous Queenscliff bombie, a break known locally as Deadman’s. This spot is notorious for its powerful and treacherous conditions, breaking only a few times a year and testing the skill of even the most committed surfers.
His ride, captured in a viral video by videographer Essa Staszewska, showcased the raw talent that has long been respected on the Northern Beaches. Myers has stated that his ability to handle such waves comes from years of pushing his limits and learning that the mind is the biggest barrier.
A Dream Rekindled
For the 33-year-old father of two, with a third child on the way, this international recognition marks a surprising turn in his career. A decade ago, Myers gave up a contract with Quiksilver, believing a sustainable living from big-wave surfing wasn’t possible at the time. He chose a different path, building a life as a carpenter, joining the Fire Brigade, and focusing on his family and the waves at home.
Now, this award has brought his journey full circle, attracting new sponsorship deals from major brands like Florence Marine X, Pyzel and Veia, which he hopes will allow him to surf alongside the world’s best more often. Despite the new attention, he has expressed a desire to remain grounded, focused on his family and his love for surfing rather than fame.
A Night for the Giants
While the spotlight was firmly on the Freshwater hero, the evening also celebrated other incredible athletes. Michaela Fregonese had an exceptional night, securing both the Women’s Ride of the Year and Biggest Wave awards for her surfing at Jaws in Maui. The Men’s Biggest Wave award went to Alo Slebir for an immense 76-foot wave at Mavericks. The highly respected Surfer of the Year honours were awarded to Brazil’s Lucas ‘Chumbo’ Chianca and France’s Justine Dupont, cementing their status as legends of the sport.
Published Date 14-October-2025
