The 2026 BrightSky Australian Adaptive Pro wrapped up yesterday in clean 3–4 foot surf at Main Beach, Byron Bay.

A day full of finals saw champions carried up the beach by their teammates in pure adulation, including Waveski / Sit Champion Michael Johnson (Australia). As the first stop of three on the AASP (Association of Adaptive Surfing Professionals) World Tour, the Waveski / Sit division, sponsored by Waveski Adventurers, saw the defending champion deliver a commanding performance to take the win.

Richard Thomas, who won the Australian Para Surfing Waveski Titles just days earlier, took an early lead in the Final with a 6.00 ride in the challenging conditions. However, Johnson answered back quickly with his committed surfing, coming off the lip and charging closeout barrels on the shallow sandbank.

He ultimately left his fellow finalists behind with a heat total of 12.60, followed by Richard Thomas in second with 10.27, Jesse Hinson in third with 6.46, and AASP founder and visionary Charles Webb in fourth with 6.07.

“This win means a lot. It shows myself and my family that hard work pays off,” shared Johnson, who has been putting in countless hours in the water across all conditions. “If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to work towards it and never give up,” he continued.

Waveski surfing offers adaptive athletes the opportunity to experience the stoke of wave riding with the added assistance of a paddle – promoting inclusivity while maintaining a style similar to their able-bodied counterparts. Johnson added, “When I’m surfing, I escape my wheelchair and disability and focus on nothing more than being in the moment and catching waves.”

Waveski Adventurers thanks the organisers, athletes, volunteers, and everyone involved in delivering such a special and historic event. The organisation exists to showcase the sport of waveski surfing, support athletes, and help grow the sport worldwide.

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