NEWLY crowned 2016 WSL champion Tyler Wright, from Culburra, has won the Maui Women's Pro, the 10th and final stop on the 2016 Samsung Galaxy World Surf League (WSL) Women’s Championship Tour (CT), after defeating two-time event winner Carissa Moore in the final.
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“I was watching the ocean and I really thought that something was on its way,” Wright said.
“Once I’m on the wave, I’ve never had a problem but working with Micro (Glenn Hall) has really helped put me in the right spot and allow me to make the most of the opportunities that come my way.”
The win caps off an incredible season that saw Wright claim her maiden WSL Title and five CT victories (Gold Coast, Margaret River, Rio, Trestles and Maui).
This is also Wright's best result at Honolua Bay and the first time that she has got the better of opponent Moore in a Final after eight match-ups.
“This event allowed me to get a block of work done to get ready for next season,” continued Wright.
“With the title done and dusted we were able to work on some other things which is great.
“Now I’ll go home, have a break and spend some time with friends and family.
“It’s honestly incredible, and it’s been a fantastic year.
“Thanks to everyone who’s put in the extra effort for me - my crew and everyone at home.”
Wright dispatched Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) and Keely Andrew (AUS) before facing Moore in her seventh Final appearance this season.
“Inspiration for this event has been learning and that has been the undercurrent for everything I’ve done this year,” Wright said.
“There were a couple of rocky first rounds, but then I pulled it together today. Honestly, Carissa (Moore) and I have had eight finals together and she has gotten me in seven, which is pretty incredible.
“Carissa has just schooled me every year and this is the first year that I have come out knowing that I had to get the work done to reach that standard of being a complete and well-packaged World Title contender.
“I think we will have many more fun battles to come.”
The final saw Wright and Moore each open with a small score until an exciting exchange witnessed Wright post a 6.83 while Moore was rewarded with an excellent 9.00 for a series of big turns.
Wright was in need of a 3.68 and she took off on a wave with priority with just two minutes remaining, while Moore took a wave directly behind her.
Wright got the better of the exchange with a critical 7.83 to earn the win.
