After two days of fierce competition and challenging conditions, which saw 64 surfers from 20 countries take on the waves, D.A Lucky (Sri Lanka) emerged victorious at the 2016 edition of Red Bull Ride My Wave. The Sri Lankan reached the finals, in a fierce battle where he put on an explosive display of powerful and clean surfing to clinch the winning title.
D. A. Lucky was the standout performer, earning the highest score in the finals walking away with US$1500 and a full sponsorship from Dots Surf Café for 2017. VladmirMerlis from Israel finished second and took home US$1000 whilst France's Louis Sempe was relegated to 3rd place and a prize of US$500.
"I can't put this feeling in to words. This is a big step for my surfing and to be noticed by Dots... I'm ecstatic. The waves were definitely bigger and narrower today which was a challenge but I gave it my best. The experience that Red Bull Ride My Wave has given me, I've never had in my life. It has also given the South Coast and the Kabalana Surf Point the recognition it needs. Projects like this help promote the country as well as the growth of surfing. I am very proud to be a part of this event and represent Sri Lanka" said D.A Lucky.
The heats for the Top 32 kicked off the day, taking advantage of the clean morning conditions to display high performances and high scores.