It's a big day for sponsorship changes. After the news broke earlier today that ASP future star, Julian Wilson left Quiksilver for Nike, Quik announced it signed current and four-time world champ, Stephanie Gilmore to a five-year contract.
Gilmore, who has ridden for Rip Curl her entire pro career, won her first World Championship her rookie year of 2007, and has dominated the Womens tour since.
"I have had exceptional support throughout my career and I am excited to have this bright opportunity with the respected team at Quiksilver," says Gilmore, "I am looking forward to pushing myself to new levels and feel this is a move which will help me stay inspired while competing at the highest level as a professional surfer on the ASP Women's World Tour. It's thrilling to be a part of an innovative and globally respected brand like Quiksilver. Its rich history and creative direction are well aligned with my personal ambitions."
While Quiksilver owns the women's brand Roxy, home to such athletes as Sally Fitzgibbons, Kassia Meador, Sofia Mulanovich, and Lisa Anderson, Gilmore will become a brand ambassador for Quiksilver's own women's line. The brand has until now sponsored female artists, musicians, photographers, and fashion designers but conspiculously lacked a surfer.
After winning her fourth title in Puerto Rico last November and her third Vans Triple Crown in Hawaii in December, Gilmore made news recently when she was attacked near her home in Tweed's Head. The attack was reportedly an isolated incident, but left her with a broken wrist. She has said she will be healed in time for the start of the season at on February 26, Roxy Pro on Australia's Gold Coast.
"We are very happy to welcome Stephanie to Quiksilver," says Bob McKnight, CEO of Quiksilver, "Her many accomplishments, at such a young age, are incredible. She is an inspirational role model for young women and a perfect fit for Quiksilver."