KSBoardriders Make Their Mark on the QS6000
The WSL Qualifying Series launched into full swing in Sumatra this June, with back-to-back QS 6000 events lighting up two of Indonesia’s most iconic left-handers: the Krui Pro at Ujung Bocur and the Nias Pro at Lagundri Bay. Representing the Philippines were two standout surfers—Marama Tokong, the seasoned Cloud 9 charger who competed in both events, and Noah Arkfeld, making his first full campaign in the Men’s Open division after aging out of juniors.
🌊 What’s a QS 6000?
The WSL Qualifying Series (QS) is the global pathway to the elite Championship Tour. QS 6000 events like Nias and Krui offer maximum points, fierce competition, and the chance to climb the rankings. These aren’t just contests—they’re proving grounds for the next wave of world-class talent.
NIAS PRO QS 6000 — Lagundri Bay, June 21–26, 2025
Conditions:
Classic Nias delivered—long, reeling barrels under glassy skies, peeling perfectly across the reef. Offshore winds and a steady swell made it a tube-rider’s dream and the ultimate stage for heavy rail work and deep commitment.
Marama Tokong
Marama came in with fire. Locking into deep, technical barrels in the early rounds, he laid down some of the highest scoring waves of the comp. His Round of 48 standout? A behind-the-peak takeoff into a hollow freight-train tube, perfectly navigated and cleanly exited—earning one of the top single-wave scores of the round. He advanced all the way to the Round of 16, once again showing why he’s considered one of the region’s most dangerous in hollow surf.
Noah Arkfeld
Noah made his debut in the Men’s Open division with confidence. Surfing in the Round of 136, he posted a combined heat total of 5.80 (3.07 + 2.73) through smart wave selection and refined lines. While he didn’t go deep this time, the experience was golden—adding fuel to a rising career and showing flashes of real QS potential.
KRUI PRO QS 6000 — Ujung Bocur, June 11–17, 2025
Conditions:
South Sumatra served up long, powerful lefts and a clean mid-event swell. Ujung Bocur offered everything from steep drops to dreamy runners—testing the full range of surfing ability.
Marama Tokong
Marama kept his rhythm going from Nias. He fought through to the Round of 32, highlighted by a slick barrel-to-snap combo in the Round of 64 that secured him the heat. Though his run ended before finals day, the consistency and poise he showed through both events prove he’s got the tools for a Challenger Series push.
The QS Journey & What’s Ahead
With two strong performances under his belt, Marama is stacking up valuable points on the road to the WSL Challenger Series—the final stage before the Championship Tour. As of the latest rankings, Marama Tokong now sits at 8th in Asia—a solid position earned through consistent results and standout performances in Sumatra. To qualify for the WSL Challenger Series, he’ll need to finish the season within the top 5 of the regional QS standings. With more events on the horizon and momentum on his side, the chase is very much alive.
The torch is being passed. Noah Arkfeld, part of the next wave of Filipino surf talent, has begun carving his path. His journey is just beginning—but the intent is clear. For Noah, each heat brings growth, experience, and firepower for the next event.
Both surfers are carving their path—and we’re proud to support them from lineup to launch.
What’s Next?
From Sumatra to wherever the QS takes them next, Marama and Noah are just getting started. Stay tuned as our island athletes chase glory, barrels, and that next big breakthrough.
COMING UP:
Siheung Korea Open QS6000 and LQS1000 (Jul 18-20)
Tahara Pro QS6000 (Sep 16-21)
🔥 Ride what they ride. Shop island-built surf gear at KSBoardriders.com.
📲 Follow @KSBoardriders for behind-the-scenes drops and surf stories.
🌐 For full results and upcoming QS event info, head to WorldSurfLeague.com.