Teenage surfing star Erin Brooks granted Canadian citizenship, now sets sights on Olympics

Teenage surfing prodigy Erin Brooks has won her fight for Canadian citizenship, opening the door for her to compete for Canada at the Paris Olympics.

The 16-year-old Brooks was born in Texas and grew up in Hawaii but has Canadian ties through her American-born father Jeff, who is a dual American-Canadian citizen, and her grandfather who was born and raised in Montreal.

Brooks's citizenship bid was initially turned down. But Immigration Minister Marc Miller has had a change of heart, it appears.

Surf Canada confirmed the government's about-turn.

"I love Canada. I have never been prouder to wear the Maple Leaf," Erin Brooks said. "To Minister Mark Miller and MP Jenny Kwan, you have changed my life. I believe that I will do something truly special for my country thanks to your gift of citizenship."

Lost Canadian Erin Brooks has been granted her Canadian citizenship after reconsideration by the Minister of Immigration. Erin Brooks, a 16-year old surfing prodigy and has worked hard for her whole life for the chance to compete for Canada at the Olympics. 1/ <a href="https://t.co/fbhkT5uaEW">pic.twitter.com/fbhkT5uaEW</a>

Kwan, the NDP's immigration critic, helped advocate for Brooks.

The last opportunity to qualify for the Olympics is at the ISA World Championships in Puerto Rico in February.

Brooks is considered by many a potential challenger for a medal at the Olympics due to the heavy left-hand barrel conditions at Teahupo'o in Tahiti, where the Olympic surfing event is being held.

Dom Domic, Surf Canada's executive director, welcomed the citizenship news.

"After over four years, it looks like the Brooks's finally have their happy ending," he said in an email. "I am personally over the moon that Minister Miller will make