ASP World Tour debutant Tim Boal (Anglet, FRA), 25, recently re-signed with Oakley and also put pen to paper on a new contract with Pull-in Underwear following new endorsement deals brokered by Agency Sports International (ASI) Management.

The reigning ASP European Men’s Champion continues to power his way into 2009 after an incredible season on the World Qualifying Series in 2008, culminating in the Frenchman earning himself a precious spot on the elite ASP World Tour. After taking his place among the world’s top 44 surfers at the Quiksilver Pro in Australia earlier this month, Boal impressed spectators and judges alike by winning his first heat in emphatic style before capitulating in the 3rd round and earning himself an equal 17th place finish.

Following his promising performance on the Gold Coast, Boal took some time out to reflect on his latest endorsement deals, and said: “Oakley have been supporting me for a long time and I’m really stoked to extend my contract with them so that I can keep working with the brand. We enjoyed a lot of success in 2008 and I’m confident that I can go on and achieve even greater things this year with the benefit of their support. It’s also a real pleasure to sign with Pull-in – they’ve got one of the most stacked action sports teams in the business, and it’s an honor to line up alongside those team riders.”

Looking ahead, Boal is anxious to build on the promising start he has made on the ASP World Tour, and said: “Professional surfing has come a long way in Europe in the last few years, and I’m really excited to be one of seven surfers flying the European flag on the World Tour this year. My support team and I have worked really hard over the last few months to rehabilitate my foot injury, and I’m stoked the hard work has finally paid off. The opportunity to paddle out and compete against the world’s best surfers is something I’ve been working towards all my life, and I’m going to make the most of that opportunity in 2009 and hopefully beyond. Thanks to my girlfriend, my parents, my friends and my sponsors for all the support, especially during the tough times!”

Check back soon to find out how Tim gets on at the next stop of the World Tour, scheduled to unfold next month at Bells Beach, Australia. In the meantime, Tim will be heading to French Polynesia to train alongside friend and with fellow rookie Michel Bourez (PYF).

Tim Boal’s sponsors include Reef, Red Bull, Oakley, Pull-in, Dakine, surfersvillage and Pukas.