Conditions at Surfers Point for the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro have never been more perfect for a world-class surf contest.
Surfers and spectators witnessed Margaret River at its best producing big clean powerful waves at Mainbreak, barrels at The Box, the right amount of offshore wind, bright blue skies and warm sunny weather.
Surfing WA CEO Mark Lane said that the event has attracted capacity crowds, largely due to the best surf conditions in the Pro’s history.
“From one vantage point at Surfers Point, we have two truly challenging breaks that produce different waves that require different surfing styles – it takes a true waterman to dominate both breaks,” Mr Lane said.
“We have one of the best places on the planet for a surf event. The Box produces fast powerful barrels, and Mainbreak has big clean-faced waves that surfers can carve across and showcase their turns and aerials.”
Mr Lane congratulated all the surfers, particularly to those that surfed today, semi-finalists Taj Burrow (Yallingup, WA) and Nat Young (USA), runner up John John Florence (Hawaii) and winner Adriano de Souza (Brazil).
“Also, a thumbs up to Jay Davies – he’s made a real name for himself thanks to his fantastic performance first winning the WA Trials and then going on to win heats and surf in the quarter finals,” Mr Lane continued.
“That’s what we are about – yes, putting together a fantastic event, but also connecting locals and giving them opportunities – from the local footy club to the Shire workers, the medics, the Margaret River High School surf academy students who caddied for competitors, to the opportunity to showcase the region’s amazing food, wine and other tourism attractions.
“We’ve given the travelling surfing fraternity a taste of the South West – I’ve had so many compliments on the food and wine - lunches prepared by chef Russell Blaikie and wines from Aravina, Howard Park and Mad Fish. Our functions have given producers the opportunity to talk about their produce too, it’s been positive for everyone involved.”
Three lay-days were called between the first heat on April 15 to the final today, allowing competitors, media, and officials the chance to enjoy the region.
Winner of the women’s 2015 Drug Aware Margaret River Pro Courtney Conlogue (USA) visited the artist who designed her winning trophy Gerry Reilly of the Melting Pot Studio, toured the microbrewery at Colonial Brewery, and the barrel room at Voyager Estate.
Six-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore (Aus) who retired from the contest after an injury during a free surf at Injidup on Tuesday, enjoyed visiting wineries and was spotted having lunch at Wills Domain.
Surf champion and event commentator Tom Carroll was spotted at Olio Bello, Wills Domain and Aravina Estate. Barton Lynch was also spotted at Aravina Estate last week.
“We are fortunate to have strong support from the State Government and all of our sponsors, stakeholders and the media.
“We’ve had the opportunity to produce some really fantastic Margies Moments clips that tell stories about this region and what makes it so special - those clips have been seen by millions around the world through the World Surf League online broadcast.
“To have people tell me that they got goosebumps watching the Margies Moments, or have enjoyed our hospitality on or off site makes me – makes us all - feel proud to be Western Australian.”
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