Van Wagoner’s First WSL Longboard Win

On December 10, 2023 Carlsbad’s own Jack Van Wagoner won the 2023 Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic in pristine, two-to-three foot conditions at Morro Rock over a heavily-contested field. This marks Van Wagoner’s maiden World Surf League win, pushing him right to the top of the North America rankings.

“I’m super stoked, I definitely want to give my mom a shout out since she said she wanted me to win for her birthday so I delivered, happy birthday mom (laughs),” said Van Wagoner. “All the boys were ripping. Richie’s 10 in the Semifinals was insane. I can’t believe it and I’m just so stoked. “

The men’s Final got underway with reigning North America Longboard Regional victor Richie Cravey (USA) taking on 2023 standouts Chase Lieder (USA) and Jack Van Wagoner (USA) along with event threat Noah Shimabukuro (USA). Van Wagoner took the best of the opening exchange, earning a 7.50 and backing it up quickly to gain an early advantage. But, Lieder, Cravey, and Shimabukuru all were right behind him with a solid score of their own. Cravey’s sensational form carried into the Final to take the lead from Van Wagoner. But, the dying minutes provided Van Wagoner one last opportunity to strike and he capitalized to earn a near-perfect 9.25 for his maiden WSL victory.

Congrats, Jack. We’re all stoked, too! And we know this will not be the last time you get chaired up the beach!