Surf City, El Salvador – May 1, 2025 — In a thrilling finale at the 2025 ISA World Longboard Championship, Capistrano Beach’s Rachael Tilly delivered a gold medal performance marked by technical brilliance and signature style. Riding a custom Josh Martin hand-shaped board with a spruce stringer and unique rocker, Tilly captured judges’ attention all week with soul arches, stretch fives, sweeping turns, and graceful nose rides that reflected her poise and mastery.

"I'm absolutely speechless. This was the goal. I've gotten two silver medals and I really, really wanted to win gold, but I knew it was going to be a tough heat with the level of competition," Tilly said in a post-heat interview. "I can't believe I'm standing here now. We have such an incredible team and the support that they've given us here at this event is unmatched to any other event that I've participated in."

“I was really, really honored and excited to be this team’s coach,” said Coach Colin McPhillips, three-time WSL World Longboard Champion and the USA Surfing’s coach in 2018 when they won team Gold. “I really, really enjoyed my time watching their talents shine, giving advice and keeping things fun.”

Tilly’s gold medal finish, along with standout performances by her California teammates—Kaitlin Mikkelsen of Carlsbad (equal 9th), Steven Newton of San Clemente (equal 11th), and Kevin Skvarna of San Juan Capistrano(25th)—earned Team USA the silver medal with 2,335 points. Team France claimed gold with 2,865 points, and Team Philippines rounded out the podium with bronze at 2,288 points.

“This was a special team,” said Team Manager Bing Cosby.“They surfed with heart, supported each other, and brought out the best in one another. The support crew—from coaching to nutrition—kept everyone focused, healthy, and performing at their peak.”

Coach McPhillips’ leadership and mental game preparation were key to Team USA’s consistency and success across the week. With epic waves lighting up El Sunzal for finals day, the longboarders were treated to the kind of conditions that showcase the art of traditional surfing at its highest level.

“Rachael’s gold and this team silver represent everythingUSA Surfing stands for—grace under pressure, performance excellence, and deepconnection to the ocean,” said Becky Fleischauer, USA Surfing CEO. “This crew gave it their all and made the U.S. proud.”

USA Surfing extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors who made this ISA World Championship competition possible:

Resin Services, Free Fly Apparel, KYA Group, and Bagla Law.

For full results and event coverage, visit isasurf.org.

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