ABOVE: Surfer Callum Robson has a sponsor, TripADeal. Photo: Contributed
Susanna Freymark
Callum is coming home.
Rookie surfer Callum Robson is back in Australia and on his way to Evans Head.
He returns to his hometown ranked as number 10 in the world of surfing.
His achievements belong to the town too.
The community organised a fundraiser for Callum’s first World Surf League tour this year.
Callum reckons they raised about $13,000.
“Having a small town behind me was super motivating,” he said.
“I grew up in Evans Head. I spend my time at Main Beach.”
To return as a world class surfer is a thrill.
“It was my first tour. I got as high as number six and finished 10th after 10 events,” he said.
Being an athlete means Callum has the willingness to do what it takes.
“I have a good understanding of what makes me tick.
“Who I am grounds me and helps me perform.”
“And it isn’t all about winning. I lost a lot growing up, I didn’t win everything.”
Callum said once you become good at losing, you digest it and learn from it.
“And you let go of the negative self-talk. It promotes growth and getting the most out of the experience.”
Callum has certainly made waves in his rookie year with notable moments including finishing runner-up at Bells Beach, ending Mick Fanning’s fairy tale attempt at a record 5th title in a thrilling upset.
He had wins at the Tweed Coast Pro and Gold Coast Pro as well as a victory against two time world champion John John Florence.
Callum achieved all this without a major sponsor.
Inspired by his story as a self-made pro-surfer reminded Richard Johnston and Norm Black of their own journey to success.
The TripADeal founders based in Byron Bay are sponsoring Robson to help make his surf dreams come true.
“TripADeal will take my performance to the next level,” Callum said.
A night of music and celebration for Callum’s Welcome Home Party is planned in Evans Head when Callum returns on Saturday, October 1.
There will be music, a signing session with Callum and an on stage interview.
Information about ticket sales is at the Evans Head Sessions Instagram account.
Free tickets for flood affected locals will also be on offer.
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