Surfing is one of the most exciting and adrenaline-pumping sports in the world. Surfers ride waves, perform tricks, and showcase their skills on some of the most beautiful beaches on Earth. When it comes to competitions, there are many prestigious events that attract surfers from all over the world. However, there is one competition that stands out above the rest—The World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour.
This article will explore the biggest surfing competition in the world, diving into the history of the World Surf League, the structure of the Championship Tour, and why it holds such importance in the world of surfing.
The World Surf League Championship Tour
The World Surf League (WSL) is the governing body for professional surfing, and its Championship Tour (CT) is the most prestigious surfing competition in the world. The WSL Championship Tour features the best surfers from across the globe competing at some of the most renowned surf locations. It is the ultimate stage for surfers to showcase their skills, challenge each other, and earn the title of World Champion.
History of the World Surf League
Before the WSL became the global authority in professional surfing, there was another organization—the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). Founded in 1983, the ASP was responsible for organizing professional surfing competitions and crowning world champions. However, in 2015, the ASP rebranded and became the World Surf League. This transition marked the beginning of a new era for surfing, one that would see the sport grow in global popularity and attract larger audiences.
The WSL Championship Tour, which was formerly known as the ASP World Tour, has been running for several decades and has become the biggest surfing competition in the world. The WSL works closely with top surfers and sponsors to create a tour that not only showcases the sport but also provides a platform for surfers to gain recognition, build their careers, and make a living.
How the Championship Tour Works
The Championship Tour (CT) is a series of events that take place throughout the year at various iconic surf spots. The events are held in different countries, each offering unique waves and challenging conditions for surfers. The tour usually consists of 10 to 12 events, each contributing points toward a surfer’s overall ranking.
The surfers compete in head-to-head heats, where they are judged on their performance, the size of the waves they ride, and their ability to perform maneuvers such as turns, aerials, and tube rides. The better the performance, the more points a surfer earns. The ultimate goal is to accumulate enough points to be crowned the World Champion at the end of the season.
The Most Prestigious Events on the Championship Tour
While all events on the Championship Tour are important, some are regarded as the most prestigious and difficult to win. These events have become synonymous with the WSL Championship and have earned a special place in the hearts of surfers and fans alike.
1. The Billabong Pro Pipeline (Hawaii)
Pipeline, located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is often considered the most iconic wave in the world. The Billabong Pro Pipeline is one of the most prestigious events on the WSL Championship Tour and often serves as the season opener. It is known for its powerful, barreling waves that create perfect conditions for high-performance surfing.
The wave at Pipeline is famous for its deep tube rides, which are considered one of the most difficult maneuvers in surfing. Surfers must demonstrate incredible skill, timing, and bravery to ride these waves. Winning the Pipeline event is a dream for many surfers, and it is often regarded as a milestone in a surfer’s career.
2. The Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast (Australia)
Held at the Gold Coast in Australia, this event is known for its long, fast waves that offer plenty of opportunities for surfers to showcase their skills. The Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast is not only a significant competition but also the first stop on the Championship Tour. It attracts a large number of spectators and is often the perfect setting for surfers to kick off their season with a strong performance.
The Gold Coast is famous for its consistent surf and stunning beaches, making it a favorite spot for both professional surfers and fans. Surfers who perform well at this event often gain momentum for the rest of the season.
3. The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach (Australia)
Bells Beach is one of the most famous surf locations in the world, and the Rip Curl Pro is the longest-running surfing competition in history. It has been held annually since 1961 and is a legendary event in the surfing community. The waves at Bells Beach are unique, with powerful barrels and steep faces that provide plenty of opportunities for surfers to show off their skills.
The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach is part of the WSL Championship Tour, and winning here is considered a prestigious achievement. The event has a rich history, and it is known for its passionate crowds and the competitive atmosphere that surrounds it.
4. The MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal (Portugal)
Held in Supertubos, Portugal, the MEO Rip Curl Pro is another highly anticipated event on the WSL Championship Tour. The waves at Supertubos are known for their powerful barrels, and the event is often referred to as one of the most challenging and exciting competitions on the tour.
Surfers who perform well here earn crucial points toward their overall ranking, and the event is often a turning point in the season. The MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal has become a fan favorite, attracting thousands of spectators each year who come to witness world-class surfing in a stunning coastal setting.
Who Competes in the Championship Tour?
The WSL Championship Tour features the best surfers from around the world, including both male and female competitors. The surfers who qualify for the CT are the top-ranked surfers from the previous season, along with a select group of wildcards and surfers who perform well in regional events.
Some of the most famous names in surfing have competed in the Championship Tour over the years. Surfers like Kelly Slater, John John Florence, Gabriel Medina, Mick Fanning, and Stephanie Gilmore have all made their mark on the CT and continue to inspire future generations of surfers.
Men’s and Women’s Championships
Both men and women compete in separate divisions, with the men’s division often featuring a larger pool of surfers due to the sport’s longer history. However, the women’s division has grown significantly over the years, and female surfers like Carissa Moore, Tyler Wright, and Lakey Peterson have become household names in the world of professional surfing.
The Impact of the WSL Championship Tour
The WSL Championship Tour has played a crucial role in the development and growth of professional surfing. By creating a global platform for surfers to compete, the WSL has helped bring the sport to a wider audience, with events broadcast on television and live-streamed online. The competitions attract major sponsors, and the popularity of the sport has led to more opportunities for surfers to make a living through their craft.
The WSL has also been instrumental in advocating for ocean conservation, sustainability, and promoting surf tourism. Through various initiatives, the organization has worked to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment, ensuring that future generations of surfers will be able to enjoy the same incredible waves.
Conclusion
The World Surf League Championship Tour is undoubtedly the biggest surfing competition in the world. With its prestigious events, incredible athletes, and stunning surf locations, it represents the pinnacle of the sport. Whether it’s the powerful waves of Pipeline, the fast breaks at the Gold Coast, or the legendary competition at Bells Beach, the WSL Championship Tour provides surfers with a global stage to showcase their skills and compete for the ultimate prize: the title of World Champion.
For surfers, competing in the Championship Tour is the dream. For fans, it’s the chance to witness the best athletes in the sport going head-to-head, riding some of the most beautiful and challenging waves on Earth. The WSL Championship Tour is not just a competition; it is a celebration of everything that makes surfing one of the most exciting sports in the world.