2017 World Longboard Champion, Rachael Tilly (Gold Coast) and Professional Surfer and Surf School Owner/Operator, Phillipa Anderson (Newcastle) both signed on as brand ambassadors over the last month, and both bring a fresh and unique dynamic to the RYD tribe.
Rachael Tilly, the stylish Californian surfer who currently resides in Burleigh Heads, has a contest record that speaks for itself; she was the youngest ever world champ at 17 years of age, has competed for her home country (USA), won gold medals at the ISA World Surfing Games and has taken home a host of state and national titles while staying in the top 5 of the WSL World Longboard rankings.
And while those contest results are truly impressive, it’s not the only thing about Rachael that caught the RYD brands eye. Despite her success as a pro surfer, the ever-smiling natural footer has an incredibly humble approach to life. She values family and friendships and has an infectious demeanour that always stokes people out – all traits that dove tail well with the RYD Brand’s values.
RYD’s Global Brand Director, Brad Bricknell says, “Rachael is the perfect advocate for spreading the joy of surfing around the world – her stoke is infectious and we are so excited to share Rachael’s story and collaborate on our mission to impact people for good. Rachael is a perfect fit.”
And for Rachael, the sentiment is mutual. “Surfing first and foremost, has always been fun for me.” Says Tilly. “Fun and stoke are what RYD’s foundation is built around and it was something I felt set RYD apart from the others, and that really identified with me. I’m stoked to be with such an uplifting and positive team and looking forward to seeing what this partnership brings
The former world champ is currently gearing up for a possible start of the WSL Longboard Tour later on this year and is also working full time at the Australian Headquarters of the World Surf League.
Philippa Anderson
Philippa Anderson’s dream is to qualify for the WSL world championship tour, and it’s something the South African-born pro surfer has dedicated her time and energy towards in recent years.
Living in Merewether, Newcastle, Anderson has consistently appeared in the top 15 of the Women’s WQS rankings and has only narrowly missed out on qualifying for the elite ranks. Her professional career is littered with highlights including representing Australia in the ISA World Junior Championships, WQS event wins and wildcard appearances in World Championship Tour events.
The Novocastrian will have another opportunity to showcase her talent in the big leagues as the local wildcard entrant in this week’s Rip Curl Newcastle Cup championship tour event, taking place over the upcoming Easter holidays.
Philippa’s determination, love of the sport, and faith have seen her achieve great results – and while she’s not done with competitive surfing, the experience is something she’s passionate about passing on to the next generation via the Philippa Anderson Surf School. With the vision of getting more girls in the water and helping aspiring surfers reach their own goals, the fit with the RYD team was a natural one.
Bricknell explains. “Philippa’s approach to life and surfing is inspirational! We love what she does professionally and personally, and it makes perfect sense to partner up with her both for her competitive career and to support her vision for The Philippa Anderson Surf School.”
Philippa feels the fit is perfect too. “I’ve enjoyed watching the RYD journey from a distance. One of my best friends, Emma Smith is an ambassador in South Africa, and I’ve always loved what the brand stands for. Now to have joined the tribe in Australia with support for my career and surf school – I couldn’t be happier and look forward to sharing the good vibes!”
RYD Brand Founder, Barend Buys said the brands expansion into new markets had been a very rewarding process. “Seeing the brand slowly put down roots in Australia is very exciting! The addition of Rachael and Philippa to our ambassador programme further cements our long-term commitment to the region and we’re excited to help support both these impressive young ladies in their careers.”
Rachael and Philippa join Vittoria Farmer (Sunshine Coast), Tru Starling (North Narrabeen) and Joel Emery (Yamba/Angourie) on the RYD Australia team.
About RYD:
RYD is a surf accessories and softboard brand that exists to impact people for good by humbly spreading the stoke of surfing. We make quality products, proven by some of the world’s best surfers — while focusing on having the most fun we can in and around the ocean. Find out more at https://rydbrand.com.au/pages/about-us
Website: https://rydbrand.com
Social Media: @rydbrand_aus @rydbrand_global
