Surf City, El Salvador – May 1, 2025: USA Longboard Team Earns Silver, Rachael Tilly Defends Women’s Gold at ISA World Longboard Championships

In a breathtaking finale at the 2025 ISA World Longboard Championship in Surf City, El Salvador, Capistrano Beach’s Rachael Tilly delivered a masterful performance to secure the individual gold medal.

Riding a custom Josh Martin hand-shaped longboard featuring a spruce stringer and distinctive rocker, Tilly captivated judges throughout the week with her technical prowess and signature flair. Her repertoire of soul arches, stretch fives, sweeping cutbacks, and poised nose rides showcased unmatched grace and control, cementing her status as a longboarding icon.

“This repeat gold feels like a dream,” Tilly said in a post-heat interview, radiating gratitude. “The level of competition here was incredible, and I’m beyond honored to stand atop the podium again. Our team’s unity and the unparalleled support in El Salvador made this moment possible.”

Rachael Tilly – photo: ISA /Jersson Barboza

Under the guidance of Coach Colin McPhillips, a three-time WSL World Longboard Champion and USA Surfing’s coach during their 2018 team gold victory, Team USA shone brightly. “Coaching this talented group was an honor,” McPhillips said. “Watching their skills flourish while keeping the vibe light and fun was truly rewarding. Their performances spoke for themselves.”

Tilly’s gold medal, combined with strong showings from her California teammates Kaitlin Mikkelsen (OLSC Member) of Carlsbad – equal 9th, Steven Newton (OLSC Member) of San Clemente – equal 11th, and Kevin Skvarna (OLSC Member) of San Juan Capistrano – 25th propelled Team USA to a hard-fought silver medal in the team standings with 2,335 points. Team France clinched the team gold with 2,865 points, while Team Philippines secured bronze with 2,288 points.

photo: ISA /Pablo Franco

Steven Newton – photo: ISA / Jersson Barboza

Kaitlin Mikkelsen – photo: ISA / Pablo Jimenez

Kevin Skvarna – photo: ISA /Jersson Barboza

Steven Newton – photo: ISA / Pablo Jimenez

“This team was extraordinary,” said Team Manager Bing Cosby. “Their passion, mutual support, and dedication elevated everyone’s performance. Our support crew—from coaches to nutritionists—ensured the athletes stayed focused, healthy, and at their peak throughout the competition.”

McPhillips’ strategic coaching and emphasis on mental resilience were pivotal to Team USA’s consistent excellence. Finals day at El Sunzal delivered pristine, long-walled waves, providing the perfect canvas for the world’s best longboarders to showcase the artistry and tradition of the sport.

“Rachael’s gold and our team silver embody the spirit of USA Surfing: grace under pressure, world-class performance, and a profound connection to the ocean,” said Becky Fleischauer, USA Surfing CEO. “This team poured their hearts into every wave and made our nation proud.”

USA Surfing extends heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors who made this championship journey possible: Resin Services, Free Fly Apparel, KYA Group, and Bagla Law. Their support fueled Team USA’s success on the global stage.