An Australian surfer has broken the record for longest surf session, and he's still out there.
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Veteran pro-surfer and Cronulla local Blake Johnston broke the world record of 30 hours and 11 minutes in the waves, previously held by a South African surfer, in the early morning of Friday March 17.
But he's aiming for 40 hours, and he hopes to reach the target by the evening.
The 40 year-old world record-holder is raising money for youth mental health services and suicide prevention, aiming to donate $250,000 to the Chumpy Pullin Foundation. He's already raised $200,000.
"This way, I can surf with people, bring in the community and make a difference for the future," he told ABC News Breakfast.
Ellidy Pullin, the wife of late Olympic snowboarder Alex "Chumpy" Pullin, was cheering Mr Johnston on from the beach.
Ms Pullin started the foundation after her husband, the 32 year-old world champion, drowned in 2020 on the Gold Coast.
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"I just know that Chumpy is out there and he would be right beside Blaky cheering him on and both of them have that Viking energy about them," she told ABC News Breakfast.
Mr Johnston, a father of two, works with kids in the area, teaching surfing and life skills.
"Blake is literally embodying Chumpy right now and helping carry his legacy," Ms Pullin said.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
Anna Houlahan
Anna Houlahan is a journalist for the Courier, dedicated to uncovering the stories that shape the city. Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
