World Surf League’s 2021 Championship Tour to begin in Hawaii, California

(FILE) Kauai native Mark Angelo Abalos demonstrates a surfing technique at his island’s south shore. (Photo by Mark Angelo Abalos)

 

HALEIWA (Eagle News) – Unlike in previous years where the season ended in Hawaii, the Championship Tour (CT) of the World Surf League (WSL) will kick off this December in the Aloha State.

For the women, the road to the WSL Finals starts with the Maui Pro at Honolua Bay from December 4 to 15.  As for the men, the Billabong Pipe Masters from December 8 to 20 also in Maui will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Reigning WSL Champion and Hawaii native Carissa Moore shared her thoughts on the upcoming season in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Hawaii is such a big part of surfing history and culture, and there is no better place to start a season and end a challenging year on a positive note,” said Moore.  “We are so grateful for your support and good vibes from home this year in order to keep everyone safe.”

The next stop of the season will see both men and women of the Championship Tour remain in Hawaii for the newly-added Sunset Open at Oahu’s North Shore between January 19 and 28.  Typically a location for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, this will be the first women’s CT event on Oahu since 2010.

In February, the Tour will continue across the Pacific at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz, California.  The last time the iconic cold-water venue appeared on a CT schedule was back in 2012.  The Santa Cruz Pro will run from February 2 to 12.

Because of continually changing conditions in communities around the world due to the pandemic, flexibility is going to be a key component of the season after the Santa Cruz Pro.  The WSL assures that it remains steadfast in its commitment to the health and safety of its surfers, staff and fans, and will make its decisions based on guidance from experts and authorities.

“Putting on an international tour amid a global pandemic is not an easy task, but the dedication and work of the entire organization, gives us confidence that we can safely execute these competitions on behalf of our athletes, staff and the local communities,” WSL chief executive officer Erik Logan explains.

(With reports from EBC Hawaii Bureau, Eagle News Service)