"Nicola Atherton's no-nonsense approach to surfing has been turning heads on the international stage for years now, despite the young natural-footer only being 21. Hailing from the punchy reefs and beaches of Sydney's Bronte area, Atherton got her start at nearby Bondi Beach at age 12. Showing promise from the beginning, Nicola began competing at age 15 and quickly developed into one of Australia's most promising young athletes.

Her development culminated in January of 2007 when the powerful Atherton took down the world's best juniors to claim the Billabong ASP World Junior Title at nearby Narrabeen. In addition to boosting her confidence, the win also gave her a preferred seed into the higher-rated ASP WQS events in '07, and Atherton put it to use. As if qualifying for the prestigious ASP Women's World Tour in just one season on the Gring wasn't enough, Atherton got a wildcard to compete at the Billabong Pro Maui last December. She's already proven that she can shake things up with the world's best, and now Atherton will have a full year to take on the elite as she embarks on the ASP Women's World Tour in 2008." - aspworldtour.com