She’s only 11-years-old, but pint-sized Leila Salt from Boomerang Beach is already making a big name for herself on the junior surfing circuit.
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During her short time in the competitors’ arena, Leila has won a swag of titles, including the 2017 under-12 years girl’s Havaianas State title in late November.
Leila literally followed her dad Adam and big brother, 13-year-old Oscar – already a consistent title holder – into the water as a five-year-old on a six foot Webster-brand surfboard.
Within two years the Pacific Palms Public School student was not only competing but placing and winning events, sometimes against girls a few years her senior
Both Leila and Oscar are regulars at Blast Off, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
Run by former world champion surfer, Barton Lynch, Blast Off is one of the biggest junior competitions in the world and Australia’s largest youth surfing development event.
Leila won her event in 2015.
Not only does Leila love and respectthe ocean, waves and beach, she is thankful for the opportunity to watch the marine life – especially the dolphins and whales.
And, she enjoys meeting new people and surfing with her friends.
Nothing seems to phase this rising young sports star – even a set of large waves which have threaten to smash her into the rocks.
“I just paddle hard,” Leila said.
Winning this year’s Havaianas State title was a sweet moment for Leila, who was knocked out in her debut outing in round two of the 2016 event.
“This year the waves were better.”
But, after winning all her heats in the 2-3 foot waves Leila almost didn’t make the winner’s podium.
“Two of the girls got really good waves, and then on the buzzer I got the perfect wave.”
While surfing is her preferred sport, Leila is a natural champion at every sport she tackles.
She is trying out for rep netball, plays touch footy at school, does squad swimming at Forster, and loves skateboarding.
She plays the acoustic guitar and has been elected to Pacific Palms Public School support team.
“I like to surf every day – even in the winter – but I still like to hang out with my friends.”
Looking into the future, Leila would like to secure a sponsor, and make it to the World Surf League.
Judging from her determination, confidence, will to win, and placid personality combined with a large dose of natural talent, this skillful young sportswoman will certainly achieve her goal.