El Salvador ISA World Master Surfing Championship

Closing Ceremony Video Highights

admin — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:22:57 +0000

The ISA World Masters Surfing Championship is sponsored by El Salvador Impresionante, Alcaldía del Puerto de La Libertad, Surfos, Alcatel, TACA), El Gráfico, Olas Permanentes Magazine, TIGO, Decameron, Cushe, Maya Realty, Yamaha, Alamo, La Femenina, CONJUVE, Amate Travel, Línea Ejecutiva, Surfline, Hospital de la Mujer, Arreconsa, Torogoz, Pepsi, Adrenaline, Gray Line El Salvador, CASATUR and POLITUR

Final Day Video Highlights

admin — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:52:45 +0000

USA Wins the Team Gold Medal at the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 02:32:46 +0000

It was first-ever victory for Team USA in its first-ever ISA World Masters Surfing Championship. Photo: ISA/Watts

Gold medals for individual athletes go to Master Mark Richardson (AUS), Grand Master Juan Ashton (PUR), Kahuna Tom Curren (USA), Grand Kahuna Craig Schieber (CRI) and Women Master Layne Beachley (AUS)

Check the video highlights, pictures and news at www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

The USA won the Eduardo Arena ISA World Team Trophy. The final day had contestable 3-to-4 feet waves under amazingly clear skies at a beach packed with local and international fans.

Team USA’s debut in the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship proved to be more than successful. They are taking home the Team Trophy, the Kahunas Gold and Silver Medals won by Tom Curren and Jim Hogan. Also Grand Kahunas and Women Masters Copper Medals were won by Allen Sarlo and Alissa Cairns respectively.

The team also had Masters Sean Mattison and Jason Senn, and Grand Masters Dean Randazzo and David Giddings placing in top 16 positions.

“Of course, the great performances in the Kahunas with Tom Curren and Jimmy Hogan were key,” said Team USA Head Coach, Ian Cairns. “But it was also a good, consistent performance by the whole team, as most of our guys made the finals. In this event you have to make the finals; you must have all of your team do well. We had a great time in El Salvador and to come out as champions, it’s just really amazing for us.”

Final Results – Team Medalists
Gold: USA
Silver: Brazil
Bronze: South Africa
Copper: Puerto Rico

"I have eight world titles now!” said seven-time ASP World Champion Layne Beachley (AUS) after winning her first-ever ISA Gold Medal.

Beachley Wins Her Eighth World Title
Seven-Time ASP World Champion, Layne Beachley, added an eighth World Title to her trophy cabinet. An ISA Masters World Title that came three years after she retired from professional surfing shows that her surfing skills remain intact.

In the final, Beachley was solid, posting 13.10 (6.50+6.60) to beat Heather Clark (RSA, second), Andrea Lopes (BRA, third) and Alissa Cairns (USA, fourth).

“It feels really satisfying to come home with the Gold. I have eight world titles now!” said Beachley. “To have the whole team at the rocks supporting me was a really great experience. We are doing the country proud and I was really honored to surf for Australia. This was a wonderful experience and I hope to come back next year.”

Final results – Women Masters
Gold: Layne Beachley (AUS)
Silver: Heather Clark (RSA)
Bronze: Andrea Lopes (BRA)
Copper: Alissa Cairns (USA)

Schieber Gives Costa Rica its First-Ever ISA Gold Medal
Stylish Craig “Tequila” Schieber was the surprise of the day, winning the first ISA Gold in the history of Costa Rican surfing. Coming from the Repechage rounds, Schieber was quick and effective in the 25-minute final match-up. A combined total of 9.86 (6.33+3.53) was enough to win the World Title.

“I have no words to describe how this feels. I’m so happy! Thank you to the ISA for making this event. I still can’t believe it. I guess now I’m Tequila Gold,” laughed Schieber. “I hope this becomes an inspiration for all the young great surfers we have in Costa Rica. I would like to see them winning gold medals and maybe even some day a team gold medal.”

Final results – Grand Kahunas
Gold: Craig Schieber (CRI)
Silver: Chris Knutsen (RSA)
Bronze: Nick Pearson (AUS)
Copper: Allen Sarlo (USA)

Tom Curren (USA) wrote another chapter in the Surfing History Book today by becoming the first surfer ever to have won the ISA World Championship in the Junior, Open and Masters divisions. Photo: ISA/Watts

Curren Writes Another Entry into the History Book of Surfing
The three-time ASP World Champion, 1980 ISA Junior Gold Medalist and 1982 ISA Open Gold Medalist entered into surfing’s history books once again by becoming the first surfer ever to have won the Gold in the main three ISA signature events (Juniors, Open and Masters).

After a slow start, Curren found a nice right that that he ripped with strong and stylish turns, earning him an 8.17. He backed that up with a 4.60 that was worthy of a Gold Medal.

“This is a great feeling and I’m really stoked about the team we have,” said Curren after the final. “It’s really fun to be part of the team, and having Ian as a coach has been great this week. Being a World Champion in three ISA divisions is a great addition to my resume.”

Final Results – Kahunas
Gold: Tom Curren (USA)
Silver: Jim Hogan (USA)
Bronze: David Malherbe (RSA)
Copper: David Husadel (BRA)

Ashton Wins His Fourth Gold
Today, Puerto Rican Juan Ashton became the “poster boy” for the ISA World Masters Surfing Championships. His victory in the Grand Masters division gave him four gold medals in the four ISA Masters events held in the last 5 years.

With seven minutes remaining until the end of the final, Ashton was third and needed a 7-point ride. A set wave came on his final wave and after combining six solid turns, he received a 7.77 from the judges, jumping straight to the first place and to the top of the podium.

An overjoyed and pumped up Ashton screamed the number “four,” while smiling and hugging his peers all the way from the point at Punta Roca to the podium. He said afterwards, “I can’t put this into words. I guess I just didn’t give up, and I was like, ‘I can do it; I just need one more wave.’” With seven minutes left, I got that wave and I surfed it almost with my eyes closed; I was so pumped to make it all the way trough. I’m just super happy.”

Final results - Grand Masters
Gold: Juan Ahston (PUR)
Silver: Jojo de Olivença (BRA)
Bronze: Fabio Gouveia (BRA)
Copper: Andre Malherbe (RSA)

Mark Richardson Wins the Masters Division
Australian Mark Richardson came all the way from the first round of the Repechage, surfing in seven heats before making it to the final and ending up being crowned the ISA Masters World Champion.

A former ISA Medalist and Australian Professional Champion, Richardson knew how to take advantage of his amazing backhand approach. He started strong by posting an 8.17 and ended the same way with a 7.17, making a total of 15.34, the highest combined score of the day.

Afterwards, an emotional Richardson, hugging his young son, said, “I’m just so stoked, I came third in the World Surfing Games in 2004, when I was winning and with one minute to go, a wave was taken away from me and I was left in third. So this is the one that I really wanted to win. I’m so happy it happened!”

Final Results – Masters
Gold: Mark Richardson (AUS)
Silver: Carlos Cabrero (PUR)
Bronze: Gary Van Wieringen (RSA)
Copper: Ross Williams (HAW)

Closing Ceremony
A colorful Closing Ceremony took place at the podium stage immediately after the last final ended. The dignitaries present were El Salvador Minister of Tourism, Jose Napoleón Duarte; La Libertad Mayor, Carlos Molina; El Salvador Surfing Association President, Saburo Okuzawa; ISA Contest Director Marcos Bukao, and ISA Director General Bob Mignogna.

ISA President Fernando Aguerre did not attend, as he’s in California recovering from a surfing injury. From home in a recorded message, he stated, “I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to all the organizers, to the people and government of El Salvador and certainly to all the delegations and the athletes for this incredible competition. Some of you are going home with medals, but all of you are champions. Thank you for making it to El Salvador and I hope to see you next year at the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.”

Tourism Minister, José Napoleón Duarte, gave thanks to the ISA and all the delegations for coming to his country. He also commented, “This event shows that this is the right moment for developing the sport and therefore tourism in El Salvador.”

After all the winning medals were awarded, ISA Director General Bob Mignogna, in the name of ISA President, Fernando Aguerre, declared officially closed the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.

With another edition of the annual ISA World Masters Surfing Championship successfully complete, the ISA looks forward to announcing the location of the premiere world team masters surfing event for 2012.

Country Final Standings
1 United States 9396
2 Brazil 9086
3 South Africa 8886
4 Puerto Rico 8618
5 Australia 8480
6 Hawaii 7664
7 Costa Rica 6090
8 Argentina 6016
9 France 5821
10 Peru 5548
11 Venezuela 5363
12 Trinidad & Tobago 5335
13 El Salvador 5230
14 Ecuador 5030
15 Uruguay 3640
16 Mexico 2240
17 Sweden 1905
18 Germany 1680
19 Switzerland 680
20 Panama 500
21 New Zealand 450

FINAL DAY PHOTOS

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 22:07:47 +0000

Mark Richardson is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 19:58:52 +0000

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Mark Richardson is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

Final Masters position:

Gold: Mark Richardson (AUS)
Silver: Carlos Cabrero (PRI)
Bronze: Gary Van Wieringen (RSA)
Copper: Ross Williams (HAW)

Full feature coming soon.

Juan Ashton is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 19:32:31 +0000

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Juan Ashton is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

Final Grand Masters position:

Gold: Juan Ashton (PRI)
Silver: Jojo de Olivença (BRA)
Bronze: Fabio Gouveia (BRA)
Copper: Andre Malherbe (RSA)

Full feature coming soon.

Tom Curren is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 19:06:43 +0000

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Tom Curren is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

Final Kahunas position:

Gold: Tom Curren (USA)
Silver: Jim Hogan (USA)
Bronze: David Malherbe (RSA)
Copper: David Husadel (BRA)

Full feature coming soon.

Craig Schieber is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 18:38:57 +0000

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Craig Schieber is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

Final Grand Kahunas position:

Gold: Craig Schieber (CRI)
Silver: Chris Knutsen (RSA)
Bronze: Nick Pearson (AUS)
Copper: Allen Sarlo (USA)

Full feature coming soon.

Layne Beachley is the new ISA World Masters Surfing Champion

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 18:09:04 +0000

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Layne Beachley just won the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.

Final Women’s Masters position:

Gold: Layne Beachley (AUS)
Silver: Heather Clark (RSA)
Bronze: Andrea Lopes (BRA)
Copper: Alissa Cairns (USA)

Full feature coming soon.

Day 5 Video Highlights

admin — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 02:07:37 +0000

EL SALVADOR ISA WORLD MASTERS SURFING CHAMPIONS TO BE CROWNED TOMORROW!

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 23:16:18 +0000

Juan Ashton (PUR) leads the charge to the Grand Masters final. He will be looking for his fourth Gold Medal in his fourth ISA World Masters Surfing Championship. Photo: ISA/Watts

USA, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and South Africa will contend tomorrow for the ISA Eduardo Arena World Team Trophy

WATCH THE FINALS TOMORROW AT 10am local time (9am PDT – 12pm EDT).
ATTENTION an updated Surfline Forecast indicates a swell increase for Sunday afternoon. As a result, the final day will begin two hours later than usual.

Watch it online on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 22, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

USA, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and South Africa are the leading contenders to take home the ISA Eduardo Arena World Team Trophy of this historic El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship, which ends Sunday at Punta Roca.

As the National Teams head to the final day of the event, the five teams are close in points:

1- Brazil – 11890 points
2- South Africa 10906 points
3- USA 10836 points
4- Hawaii 10075 points
5- Puerto Rico 9315 points

Layne Beachley (AUS) hits the lip of another Punta Roca wave and makes it to the big final. Tomorrow Beachley could be adding an eighth world title to her trophy cabinet. Photo: ISA/Watts

Into The Finals
Ten surfers, two from each of the five divisions, have secured a spot on the podium after placing first or second in the Main Event finals. They are: Gary Van Wieringen (RSA) and Ross Williams (HAW) in Masters (+35); Juan Ashton (PUR) and Jojo de Olvença (BRA) in Grand Masters (+40); Tom Curren (USA) and Jim Hogan in Kahunas (+45); Nick Pearson (AUS) and Allen Sarlo in Grand Kahunas (+50); and Layne Beachley (AUS) and Heather Clark (RSA) in Women Masters (+35). All of them will compete tomorrow in the final for the World Title.

Masters
Van Wieringen, the only surfer in the Masters Main Event Final who doesn’t have a past in the ASP World Tour, ended up winning today’s qualifying heat. Williams finished second, Jojo de Olivença (BRA) third and Davey Gonsalves (HAW) fourth. Third and fourth fell to the Repechage Final.

The South African’s strong frontside attack earned high marks from the judges as he scored 13.66 (7.83+5.83). “I’m very happy to be in the final. I have been feeling better in every heat. Let’s just hope I can keep it up all the way. I’ve been competing for long enough so I know how to deal with pressure,” said Van Wieringen.

Grand Masters
Three-time ISA World Champion Juan Ashton (PUR) had another clear victory, posting a combined total of 14.84 (8.67+6.17) to leave Jojo de Olivença (BRA) in second, Fabio Gouveia (BRA) in third and Dean Randazzo (USA) in fourth. Once again the winner of the heat was the only one that was never part of the ASP World Tour.

After winning three Gold Medals and one Copper in the ISA World Masters three previous editions, Ashton sets out for yet another Gold Medal at the final tomorrow. “This is amazing, I can’t believe it! Four tournaments, four finals,” said Ashton. “I have no words to describe it. I always come to the World Masters with a positive attitude, thinking I have a chance at winning the competition, but it gets harder as the standards rise each year.”

Kahunas
A great Team USA victory was led by Tom Curren and Jim Hogan, who placed first and second respectively in the Main Event Final. Mike Latronic (HAW, third) and David Malherbe (RSA, fourth) dropped to the Repechage Final.

“It feels great and I’m really stoked. Team USA is doing great,” said Curren. “We have a strong team and hopefully we can come to the next event and be the defending world champions.”

Women’s Masters
Seven-time ASP World Champion Layne Beachley posted the highest combined score of the event so far 15.17 (7.50+7.67) to beat Heather Clark (RSA), Andrea Lopes (BRA, third) and Melissa Proud (HAW, fourth), and make it to her first ISA World Masters final. “I was felling much more comfortable and relaxed on the smaller waves, and it’s a lot of fun. Next heat is really important so I’m focusing all my energy on it.”

Grand Kahunas
Nick Pearson (AUS) and Allen Sarlo (RSA) sent three-time ISA World Champion Chris Knutsen (RSA) and Javier Gorbea (PUR) to the Repechage. Pearson, who came as a last-minute substitute for the 1978 World Champion, Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholmew, gave an amazing performance throughout the entire event and won a clear victory today.

The waves at Punta Roca were again perfect and are going to get bigger for the finals. Photo: ISA/Quincho

Repechage – One Step Away From the Grand Final
A different story took place on the Repechage “sudden death” rounds with a marathon of heats. Some athletes surfed three times today and those who made it through are now one step away from the Medals in the Repechage Final.

They are: Masters Mark Richardson (AUS) and Carlos Cabrero (PUR); Grand Masters Santiago Di Pace (ARG) and Andre Malherbe; Kahunas David Husadel (BRA) and Sergio Penna (BRA); Grand Kahunas Craig Schieber (CRI) and Jean Labrucherie (FRA); and Women Masters Andrea Díaz (CRI) and Alissa Cairns (USA).

As the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship comes to a close tomorrow, history will once again be written by the world’s best Masters surfers.

Follow the action live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

Webcast schedule
10am local time is 9am PDT and 12pm EDT

Day 4 Video Highlights

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 21:36:12 +0000

Forecast Update: Saturday 10/22/2011

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 19:53:35 +0000

SUNDAY 23rd

SWELL/SURF: Old/small SW swell will linger through the day as the long period forerunner traces of a new SSW swell (205-195 deg) creep in through the morning. The new SSW energy will start to build more quickly through the afternoon/evening. Surf through the early morning will generally hang in the waist high zone (2-3′+). Then expect building surf over the afternoon with sets getting up to chest-shoulder high (3-4′+). Possibly even occasional head high+ waves (5′+) showing before dark.

WEATHER/WIND: Light offshore NNE’erly wind in the morning, with a light+ SSW-SW seabreeze for the afternoon. Possible evening glassoff. Partly to mostly cloudy, sunny skies. Chance for passing rain showers and thunderstorms.

Day 5 Action Photos

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 18:27:23 +0000

Aloha Beach Party Video Highlights

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:53:13 +0000

Team USA Leads the Race for the Gold Medal in the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:35:41 +0000

Hawaiian Ross Williams hits Punta Roca's lip and makes it to the Main Event final. The former ASP World Tour competitor is one step away from the medals. Photo: ISA/Watts

After a long day of Repechage heats, the USA is the only country that has all of its competitors still in the event with perfect scoring potential

COMPETITION STARTS BACK UP TOMORROW AT 8am local time (7am PDT – 10am EDT). Watch it online on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 21, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

It was a last chance day today at the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship for many competitors, crucial for the race towards the Eduardo Arena ISA World Team Trophy.

Of the 22 heats held, only six were part of the Main Event rounds, and out of the 124 competitors that started the event, only 52 remain in the tournament. Eight are from the USA, the only country that has all their athletes still in competition and, therefore, leading the race for the ISA Masters World Team Title.

Defending Champion Australia saw Grand Master Jason Schmidenberg losing his Repechage Round 3 match-up. Two-time World Champion Team South Africa had Graeme Field eliminated in the Masters division. Surfing powerhouses Hawaii and Brazil suffered the elimination of Darren Tatsuno and Jorge Bittencourt respectively.

The following heats were held today:

Repechage 2 Kahunas
Repechage 2 Grand Masters
Repechage 2 Grand Kahunas
Qualifying 3 Masters
Qualifying 3 Grand Masters
Qualifying 3 Kahunas
Repechage 3 Kahunas
Repechage 3 Grand Masters
Repechage 3 Masters

The three qualifying rounds determined the Main Event finalists in the Masters (+35), Grand Masters (+40) and Kahunas (+45) divisions.

Former ASP World Tour Competitors Ross Williams (HAW), Jojo de Olivença (BRA) and Davey Gonsalves (HAW), along with Gary Van Wieringen (RSA), are now one step away from the grand final.

Williams, a 1990s ASP Top 16, commented after placing second in his heat, “Everyone wants to win a contest and for me that’s a little bit of a thorn. I was never the best competitor in the world, I surfed good enough to win events, but I just didn’t have that animal instinct a lot of guys do. For me, at the age of 38, winning a Gold Medal here would be great.”

The Grand Masters Main Event Final will have Fabio Gouveia (BRA), Jojo de Olivença (BRA), Juan Ashton (PUR) and Dean Randazzo (USA).

After a last minute withdrawal by another member of the Brazil squad, Olivença was forced to compete in two divisions. It was a happy accident for the Brazilian Team, as Jojo is now in the two Main Event finals. “Today was a great day and I’m happy for having surfed well in both divisions. I’m used to doing this so it’s not a big issue for me. Let’s hope for the best now”.

The Kahunas had Tom Curren (USA), David Malherbe (RSA), Mike Latronic (HAW) and Jim Hogan (USA) making it through to the Main Event final. Curren was the round’s best surfer, scoring a combined total of 14.43. “We have a very good team and so far things have been going well for us so we will try to stay strong and do well,” said Curren.

Puerto Rican Carlos Cabrero is taking advantage of his great backhand approach. Today he made it through his Repechage heat in the Masters division. Photo: ISA/Quincho

The Repechage rounds had many high performance heats with nerve-wracking situations. Brazilian Sergio Penna took advantage of his strong backhand approach to earn the highest singe wave score, 9.17, in his Kahunas heat.

The day’s surprise was Germany’s Patrick Castagnet who outscored Mark Richardson (AUS, second), Martín Passeri (ARG, third) and Germán Aguirre (PER, fourth).

“That was a really tough heat, with the 2006 Latin American Champion (Passeri) and one Australian!” said Castagnet. “I just gave my best to make it through. With seven minutes left in the clock I was able to catch two good ones that took me to the first place. It’s motivating to make it through this heat and that gives me a lot of strength”.

Other Repechage standouth were Carlos Cabrero (PUR), David Giddings (USA), David Husadel (BRA), Andre Malherbe (RSA), Santiago Di Pace (ARG) and Ricardo Villanueva (PUR) among others.

Conditions were again perfect at Punta Roca. Two-to-four feet waves, long and glassy, under sunny skies. As the event comes to an end, things are getting better in El Salvador. Photo: ISA/Quincho

The event will continue tomorrow at 8am local time with the following heats:

Qualify Round 4 Masters
Qualify Round 4 Grand Masters
Qualify Round 4 Kahunas
Qualify Round 3 Grand Kahunas
Qualify Round 3 Women Masters
Repechage Round 4 Masters
Repechage Round 4 Grand Masters
Repechage Round 4 Kahunas
Repechage Round 3 Women Masters
Repechage Round 3 Grand Kahunas
Repechage Round 5 Masters
Repechage Round 5 Grand Masters
Repechage Round 5 Kahunas

Follow the action live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10amEDT

Forecast Update: Friday evening 10/21/2011

admin — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:52:49 +0000

Below is an image of the LOLA forecast dashboard for Punta Roca.

BRIEF OVERVIEW: Small surf expected for the weekend. New SSW swell starts to provide building surf later in the day on Sunday. Decent weather/wind conditions expected. NOTE – Solid SSW groundswell due for next week!

SATURDAY 22nd

SWELL/SURF: Mainly a small/easing SW groundswell (215-205 deg) mixed with minimal SW windswell. Look for mostly knee-waist high surf (2-3′) with inconsistent waves/peaks still pushing up to belly-chest high during the better tides.

WEATHER/WIND: Light offshore NNE’erly wind in the morning, with a light+ SSW-SW seabreeze for the afternoon. Possible evening glassoff. Partly to mostly cloudy skies. Chance for passing rain showers and thunderstorms.

SUNDAY 23rd

SWELL/SURF: Old/small SW swell will linger through the day as the long period forerunner traces of a new SSW swell (205-195 deg) creep in through the morning. The new SSW energy will start to build more quickly through the afternoon/evening. Surf through the morning will generally hang in the knee-waist high zone (2-3′). Then expect building surf over the afternoon with sets getting up to chest-shoulder high (3-4′). Possible slightly bigger waves showing before dark.

Best Waves Day 3 Video Highlights

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:54:32 +0000

Best Waves Day 2 Video Highlight

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:50:29 +0000

Day 4 Action Photos

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:13:45 +0000

The ISA Aloha Beach Party Gathered Together all the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship Competitors

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:12:58 +0000

The Aloha Beach Party’s signature bonfire lasted until the end of the night. Photo: ISA/Quincho

National teams left competition behind to relax and have fun for a night

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 21, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Last night, the Decameron Salinitas Hotel became the place to be for the competitors of the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship. The ISA Aloha Beach Party provided a great opportunity for competitors to relax and share the characteristic camaraderie and friendship typical in this event. The inaugural Aloha Beach Party was conceived by ISA President Fernando Aguerre and Florencia Gomez Gerbi during the 2011 ISA Junior World Championship, with the purpose to bring all participants, in a relaxed social environment around a beach bonfire.

A perfect stage was set for the occasion in the beautiful, luxurious hotel. Located on the beach with the Pacific Ocean as the background, competitors, organizers and ISA Officials enjoyed a night full of fun, live music, delicious local food, lots of Salvadorean culture, the trademark Aloha Beach Party bonfire and a stunning fireworks show.

From California, ISA president said “I’m sad not be there at the Party, due to my back injury I’ve to stay in California. The original idea of the Beach Party was to get together in the full spirit of Aloha, getting closer to each other. The ISA events are not just competition, but also a camaraderie occasion.”

“Everybody is welcome here. We want all the world to know how beautiful our country and especially La Libertad is,” said Mayor Carlos Molina. “Our waves are perfect and this hotel is great, and we organized this for everybody to enjoy the night and have a lot of fun.”

The Decameron Hotel was an excellent location for surfers from all over the world to enjoy another ISA Aloha Beach Party. Photo: ISA/Quincho

Event Organizer, Gray Line Avitours’ Carlos Ortiz, also present at the party, said, “All the surfers came here (ISA Masters at Punta Roca) to give the best of their abilities, with heart and passion. We wanted to give them a place to feel at home and decided to do the Aloha Beach Party in this beautiful hotel, where we know they will have a great time.”

After the fireworks and the traditional dancing ended, the Aloha Beach Party’s signature bonfire was lighted and lasted until late in the night.

Saturday’s Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10am EDT

Aloha Beach Party

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:39:56 +0000

Day 3 Video Highlights

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:09:56 +0000

Perfect Conditions for Day 3 of the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:38:35 +0000

Seven-time World Champion Layne Beachley and Punta Roca barrels are proving to get along really well. Pictured above, Beachley getting shacked in El Salvador. Photo: ISA/Watts

Another historic day of Masters competition with plenty of sun, offshore winds and flawless barreling rights

COMPETITION STARTS BACK UP TOMORROW AT 8am local time (7am PDT – 10am EDT). Watch it online on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 20, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Nine days of rain and stormy weather that caused one of the worst tragedies in the history of El Salvador came to an end today with sunny skies and warm weather. The El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship enjoyed an entire day of perfect, long 3-to-5 feet barrels, putting a smile on the faces of all the competitors and locals.

The following heats were held today:

- Qualify Round 2 Grand Kahunas
- Qualify Round 2 Women Masters
- Repechage Round 1 Masters
- Repechage Round 1 Kahunas
- Repechage Round 1 Grand Masters
- Repechage Round 1 Masters
- Repechage Round 1Grand Kahunas
- Repechage Round 2 Women Masters

Two completely different moods dominated the event today. The Main Event ended with smiling winners who still have two chances before elimination, while the Repechage rounds consisted of nerve-wracking heats.

The Main Event finalists for the Women Masters and the Grand Kahunas divisions were determined today after four impressive heats of elite surfing. Meanwhile, the Repechage ended with the first group of surfers to say goodbye to the event.

Grand Masters Allen Sarlo (USA), Javier Gorbea (PUR), Nick Pearson (AUS) and Chris Knutsen (RSA) won their heats, and are now one step away from the medal in the Main Event final.

A California legend, Sarlo, known as one of the famous Dogtown Z-Boys, was the star surfer of the division today. He won another heat and posted the highest combined total of the round, 12.40 (6.00+6.40). “It was so much fun, it’s so good out there,” said Sarlo. “The waves were like 3-to-4 feet, perfect little bowls. I’m so stoked to be on the USA Team with Tom Curren, Jimmy Hogan and Ian Cairns as our coach. All of us are stoked to be in El Salvador at a perfect right-hand point break.”

On the ladies’ side, Layne Beachley (AUS), Andrea Lopes (BRA), Heather Clark (RSA), and Melissa Proud (HAW) were the division standouts again, qualifying for the Winners Bracket finals.

Beachley put on a great display of carvings and barrels, surfing with amazing flow and rhythm to post the highest combined total of the division so far, 14.67 (8.00+6.67). The seven-time World Champion Beachley said after her heat, “I just put more rail in the water. I was actually starting to get really angry with myself because I wasn’t surfing to the best of my ability. Once I got angry I started to surf really hard and the judges rewarded me.”

France Team Member Olivier Salvaire attacks the lip of Punta Roca and makes it through to the second round of the Masters Repechage. Photo: ISA/Watts

The Repechage round brought exciting match-ups, with the crowd and fans screaming, wave after wave, for their teammates’ performances. The five divisions in contention hit the water in the “do or die” round and ended with 40 competitors (out of the 124 that started the event) eliminated.

Some surfers had to surf twice today. That was the case for Germán Aguirre (PER), who won both of his Repechage match-ups. “It’s a relief to win these two Repechage heats, because now it’s all or nothing so I’m competing with more enthusiasm,” said the Peruvian. “I’ve been feeling very well and happy because I could catch waves that allowed me to do some big turns. My surfing is on the rise and hopefully it continues that way.”

Other standouts in the Repechage rounds were, Che Lovelace (TRI), Mark Richardson (AUS), Carlos Cabrero (PUR), Darren Tatsuno (HAW), Pedro Díaz (VEN), Pierre Fourcade (FRA), Sebastián Galindo (ARG), Eric Graciet (FRA), Craig Schieber (CRI), Gonzalo Madrid (URU), Alissa Cairns (USA) and Andrea Díaz (CRI).

The event will continue tomorrow at 8am local time with the following heats:

– Repechage 2 Kahunas
– Repechage 2 Grand Masters
– Repechage 2 Grand Kahunas
– Qualifying 3 Masters
– Qualifying 3 Grand Masters
– Qualifying 3 Kahunas
– Repechage 3 Kahunas
– Repechage 3 Grand Masters
– Repechage 3 Masters

Follow the action live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10amEDT

Day 3 Action Photos

admin — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:50:10 +0000

Helping the Salvadorean People in Punta Roca

admin — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 03:55:09 +0000

L to R: Gray Line Avitours' Carlos Ortiz, ISA's Bob Mignogna, and La Libertad's Mayor's Office, Cristobal Carranza and Mauricio Ayala. Photo: ISA/Watts

The ISA and Event Organizer, Gray Line Avitours Make a Donation to Help the Hurting Community to Recover from the Floods

As a sign of gratitude for the great hospitality the amazing people of La Libertad are showing to all the competitors and officials involved in the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship, the International Surfing Association (ISA) and Gray Line Avitours are helping with the relief effort for members of the local community who have evacuated their homes due to the torrential floods over the past weekend.

A fund of USD 1,050 was used to purchase rice, beans, flour, water, meat, vegetables and fruit for over 900 people being sheltered in community centers by the local government.

It rained so much that the water of Río Chilama is way above its level, so much that it changed the lineup at Punta Roca, creating the barreling sandbar the Masters have been surfing. Photo: ISA/Watts

Early this morning, Bob Mignogna, ISA’s Director General and Gray Line Avitours’ Carlos Ortiz met with Mauricio Enrique Ayala, Manager of the La Libertad Mayor’s Office, and Cristobal Carranza Rivas, Councilman of the city to deliver the goods.

“The people of El Salvador gave us so much that this is the least we can do for them,” said ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “In such a difficult moment that has brought so much pain to the country, we came with the idea of creating this fund. Immediate help is what they need and is exactly what we’re giving them. We hope this helps those who need the most.”

This donation and the massive beach cleanup that the ISA organized earlier in the week are positive contributions from the international surfing community that the ISA represents.

Day 2 Video Highlights

admin — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 01:10:58 +0000

High Performance in Day 2 of the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:50:00 +0000

Three-time World Champion Tom Curren found his rhythm today, posting the highest combined total of the day (14.40) to win his heat and make it to the third round. Photo: ISA/Watts

The rain came back to El Salvador and so did the level of performance from the world’s best Masters surfers

COMPETITION STARTS BACK UP TOMORROW AT 8:00am local time (7:00PDT – 10 EDT).
Watch it online on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 19, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

The strong rain came back to La Libertad today, but that didn’t stop the contest officials from running the second day of the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship. The 3-to-5 foot waves kept breaking long and perfect with some barreling sections.

The following 24 heats were held:
-Qualify Round 1 Grand Masters (+40)
-Qualify Round 1 Grand Kahunas (+50)
-Qualify Round 2 Masters (+35)
-Qualify Round 2 Kahunas (+45)
-Qualify Round 2 Grand Masters (+40)

Now that all the surfers in the event have competed in at least one qualifying heat, there are no more National Teams with all their participants still in the main event. Out of the 124 surfers that started the event there are now 40 undefeated in the main event; the remaining surfers are in the second, and last chance repechage.

The oldest competitors in the tournament, Grand Kahunas (+50), went to the water for the first time and had, once again, South African Chris Knutsen as the best surfer of the division.

The three-time ISA Masters World Champion, 54, scored a total of 14.17 (7.50+6.67) after combining a series of carving maneuvers with deep barrels. “I felt pretty good out there this morning, so I was quite excited to head out into the water and start the heat with a good wave,” said Knutsen. “I enjoyed the heat, conditions were good and it was a great start of the contest for me. Regarding this year’s event, I think it is good to see other countries like Hawaii and the USA here in El Salvador. I’m sure that it will be a good surfing event.”

Other standouts in the Grand Kahunas division were Jorge Bittencourt (BRA), Allen Sarlo (USA) and Manuel del Castillo (PER).

In the Masters (+35), Grand Masters (+40) and Kahunas (+45), eight surfers per division remain unbeaten in the main event after making it through their second qualifying round.

Davey Gonsalves (HAW), Junior Maciel (BRA), Magnum Martínez (VEN), Gary Van Wieringen (RSA), Toby Martin (AUS), Jojo de Olivença (BRA), Jason Senn (USA) and Ross Williams (HAW) are two steps away from the grand final in the +35 division.

Former ASP World Tour competitor, Gonsalves posted the day’s second highest combined score of the division, 13.17. The Hawaiian commented after his heat, “The waves slowed down but they are still breaking pretty good. If you get the right one you can have a great score. I would like to see classic Punta Roca; I’m already having fun in these little waves, and I can’t imagine what it is like when it’s good. I’m looking forward to that.”

The eight Grand Masters that made it undefeated to the third round of the Main Event were Tom Curren (USA), David Malherbe (RSA), Guy Chang (HAW), Dean Shaw (AUS), Jim Hogan (USA), Colin Buitendag (RSA), Mike Latronic (HAW) and Rowan Sapwell (AUS).

Three-time ASP World Champion, Curren shined today, not only winning his heat but also posting the highest combined score of the division so far 14.40 (7.5+6.9) to beat David Malherbe (RSA, second), Ricardo Villanueva (PUR, third) and Sergio Penna (BRA, fourth).

Brazilian Fabio Gouveia competed in the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship last year when he placed 5th. He came to El Salvador looking for gold, and by the way he's tearing this wave apart, he's working hard to get there. Photo: ISA/Quincho

Grand Masters’ Fabio Gouveia (BRA), Juan Ashton (PUR), Dean Randazzo (USA), Che Lovelace (TRI), Jojo de Olviença (BRA), Kevin O’Brien (RSA), Reuben Balmores (HAW) and Scott Myers (AUS) made it through to the third round of the Main Event.

Fabio Gouveia was the standout of the round, posting the highest total, 13.50 (7.83+5.67), after combining a series of big turns and barrels. “The waves are very good, but the 20 minutes heats go away quick, so I couldn’t catch many waves,” said Gouveia. “I got some good ones and I did the job, the important thing is to qualify, no matter whether I finish first or second. It’s important to move forward.”

The event will continue tomorrow at 8am local time with the following heats:

-Qualify Round 2 Grand Kahunas
-Qualify Round 2 Women Masters
-Repechage Round 1 Masters
-Repechage Round 1 Kahunas
-Repechage Round 1 Grand Masters
-Repechage Round 1 Masters
-Repechage Round 1Grand Kahunas
-Repechage Round 2 Women Masters

Follow the action live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com
Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10amEDT

Day 2 Action Photos

admin — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:01:41 +0000

Day 1 Video Highlights

admin — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:37:06 +0000

The Historic El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship Officially Opens in Punta Roca

admin — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 01:23:15 +0000

Sean Mattison (USA) put on a great display of power surfing to win his Masters heat and make it through to the next round. Photo: ISA/Quincho

The World’s Largest Masters Surfing Event Gets Underway in Improved Conditions

The race for the Eduardo Arena World Team Trophy Commences in La Libertad

Watch the event live tomorrow on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 18, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

After eight straight days of torrential rain and stormy weather that caused a National State of Emergency in El Salvador, the sun finally came out for the Opening Ceremony and Day 1 of the historic El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.

A record-breaking 124 surfers from 21 countries, together with their coaches, managers and fans, filled the beach at Punta Roca with the colors of their national flags. The Sands of the World Ceremony officially opened the competition.

At the traditional ceremony, representatives from every National Team brought sand from their country’s beaches up to the stage, where it was mixed together in a glass bowl. The perennial ritual signifies the union of nations, beliefs and races through surfing and the Olympic spirit this event embraces.

ISA President Fernando Aguerre was unable to attend the Opening Ceremony, as he remained in California recovering from a surfing injury. From home in a recorded message, Aguerre stated, “This is a historic event; we are absolutely sold out in all the divisions for the first time in the ISA history. This is one of the six ISA World Championship events that happen every year and this is very special because it brings together the surf loving people, guys and ladies over 35 years old, who still love to surf a great wave and still love to compete in friendship and in a good sportsmanship spirit.”

Referring to the situation in the host country, the ISA President said, “El Salvador has gone trough some difficult times as we arrived in a country with rain and storms, but I’m very positive and sure that with our support and the help of the locals from El Salvador, this will be a history-making ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.”

Other dignitaries present at the ceremony were the Mayor of La Libertad, Carlos Molina, the representative of the Minister of Tourism, Roberto Edmundo Viera, ISA Vice-Presidents Karín Sierralta and Debbie Beacham, El Salvador Surfing Federation President, Saburo Okuzawa, and Gray Line AVI Tours’ Carlos Ortiz.

Immediately after Sierralta called the championship officially open, the event started at Punta Roca, known to surfers worldwide as the “Jeffreys Bay” of Central America, a reference to one of the surfing meccas in the world in South Africa.

The waves were much better than during the days before, glassy and barreling, reaching 5 feet on the sets. A total of 20 heats were held with the Masters, Kahunas and Women Masters competing today.

"All of a sudden I was having too much fun out there, looking for some tube ridding. I would like to see Punta Roca in full form. I can’t wait to ride a long eight-second barrel and come straight to the beach with the crowd cheering,” said former ASP World Tour competitor Toby Martin (AUS) after winning his first Masters heat. Photo: ISA/Quincho

The youngest of the group, Masters (+35) were the first to go to the water. Venezuelan Pro surfer Magnum Martínez was the division’s best surfer, scoring a combined total of 13.83 (7.5 + 6.33). “The waves are great; there is a lot of sand on the rocks, so the waves are running faster than normal and there are some good barrel sections,” said Martínez. “I got a couple of good ones to make it through. Here there are no easy heats; there are really good competitors from other countries. I’m not taking this lightly; I’m taking it like a Pro event. This is a competition and the mission is to win and have fun.”

The best single-wave score of the division was earned by former ASP World Tour standout, Toby Martin (AUS). The Aussie was awarded with an 8.17 from the judges after exploding in a series of top to bottom radical turns.

“It wasn’t a bad way to start the event today. All of a sudden I was having too much fun out there, looking for some tube ridding. I would like to see Punta Roca in full form; we just had glimpses at the moment and those little glimpses are really great, so I can’t wait to ride a long eight-second barrel and come straight to the beach with the crowd cheering.”

Other standouts in the Masters division were Davey Gonsalves (HAW), Gustavo Betancourt (PUR), Sean Mattisson (USA), Andrés Fernández (ECU), Jojó de Olivença (BRA) and Ross Williams (HAW).

Women Masters (+35) followed in the schedule and had seven-time ASP World Champion Layne Beachley delivering the best performance of the day, reaching 14.50 (7.17 + 7.33).

“The waves are fantastic today. It was a lot of fun out there and the girls are putting on a great show,” said Beachley. “Actually, this is some of the best surf I’ve had to compete in over the years. It should be great to see an increasing swell throughout the week, and to see the girls finish off in four or five feet Punta Roca would be amazing.”

In the Kahunas division, the Australian Dean Shaw was the great standout. He won his heat, leaving three-time ASP World Champion Tom Curren (USA) in second after scoring a combined total of 12.66. On his best wave, a 6.83, Shaw came out of a long barrel and finished with a good set of turns.

David Malherbe (RSA), Juan Carlos Angola (VEN), Jim Hogan (USA) and Ricardo Villanueva (PUR) were other standouts in the +45 division.

The event will continue tomorrow at 8am local time with the following heats:
-Qualify Round 1 Grand Masters
-Qualify Round 1 Grand Kahunas
-Qualify Round 2 Masters
-Qualify Round 2 Kahunas
-Qualify Round 2 Grand Masters

Follow the action live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com
Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10am EDT

Opening Ceremony Video Highlights

admin — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:31:28 +0000

Day 1 Action Photos

admin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 22:33:03 +0000

Opening Ceremony Gallery

admin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:23:45 +0000

Forecast Update: Monday evening 10/17/2011

admin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 03:36:34 +0000

The LOLA image below displays the forecast offshore NE'erly winds for El Salvador by Thursday morning.

BRIEF OVERVIEW: Over the next couple days, expect a mix of dominant local SW windswell and minor SSW-SW Southern Hemi groundswell, as well as stormy weather but lighter wind. Then look for an overall easing trend in the surf Thursday through Saturday. However, the waves become more organized and conditions are expected to improve through the second half of the week. New long period SSW groundswell due to build in over Sunday for the finals and into next week.

TUESDAY 18th

SWELL/SURF: Mixed-up blend of mostly local SW windswell and minor/easing SSW groundswell. Surf still jumbled, mainly in the chest-head high+ range (4-5′+) with occasional overhead waves/peaks (6′+).

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with rain showers/thunderstorms expected. SW’erly wind variable between light to moderate strength throughout the day.

WEDNESDAY 19th

SWELL/SURF: Dominant local SW windswell holds as a new/minor SW groundswell fills in. Surf remains jumbled, but trying to clean-up and organize some; mainly in the chest-head high+ range (4-5′+) with occasional overhead waves/peaks (6′+).

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with rain showers/thunderstorms expected. Lighter SW veering WSW wind through the morning. *Keep an eye on the wind as it may clock offshore over the afternoon (West-WNW-NW) as the trough passes through the region.

THURSDAY 20th
SWELL/SURF: Blend of holding SW groundswell and fading SW windswell. Surf is still a little mixed-up, but much more organized than previous days. Waves hang mainly in the waist-head high zone (3-5′) with occasional sets pushing slightly overhead (6′) in the morning.

WEATHER/WIND: Light to moderate offshore NNE-NE wind in the morning. Light SSW breeze in the afternoon. Possible evening glassoff. Still a good chance for passing rain showers and thunderstorms, but likely more moments the rain stops.

FRIDAY 21st

SWELL/SURF: Blend of easing SW groundswell and minor/fading SW windswell. Look for better organized surf mainly in the waist-shoulder high zone (3-4′) with occasional sets up to head high (5′).

WEATHER/WIND: Light offshore NNE’erly wind in the morning, with a light+ SSW-SW seabreeze for the afternoon. Possible evening glassoff. Chance for passing rain showers and thunderstorms. Partly to mostly cloudy skies.

SATURDAY 22nd

SWELL/SURF: Mainly an easing SW groundswell mixed with minimal SW windswell leftovers. Look for mostly waist high surf (2-3′) with inconsistent waves still pushing up to chest high (3-4′) during the better tides.

Below is an image of the LOLA forecast dashboard for Punta Roca.

SURF SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK

A broad fetch of fairly strong SW’erly wind extending well offshore from El Salvador will maintain a steady dose of good size shorter period SW windswell through Tues/Wed. Meanwhile on Tues/Wed, we’ll have minor Southern Hemi groundswells mix in; old/fading SSW (205-185 deg) and new/building SW (225-205 deg). As we move through Thurs/Fri, the local SW windswell will drop and the new SW groundswell (peaking on Thursday) will gradually take over to become the primary swell.

Further out; we’re currently watching the progress of a new and strong storm development over the SE Pacific, which will deliver a fairly solid and broad angled SSW groundswell (210-190 deg) to El Salvador for next week. The initial long period forerunners of this swell will steadily build in Sunday the 23rd into Monday the 24th, peaking around mid-day on Monday and holding steady into Tuesday the 25th. On Sunday, we’ll see a gradual build through the day; from knee-waist occasional chest high in the morning, to chest-head high+ before dark. On Mon/Tues next week, we’re expecting plenty of overhead waves to show with occasional sets up to double overhead or so. This swell would then ease very slowly through Wednesday the 26th and the rest of next week.

WEATHER CONDITIONS: Stormy weather is expected to continue through at least the next 2-3 days with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. Then we may see the weather improve a little for the last few days of the event waiting period, but passing rain showers and thunderstorms are still very possible.

WIND CONDITIONS: The onshore SW’erly wind prevailing for Punta Roca recently is expected to ease through Tues/Wed, possibly even clocking West-NW over Wednesday afternoon into the night. By Thursday and moving through the last few days of the event, we’re looking for light+ NNE-NE morning wind and much cleaner conditions at Punta Roca, followed by a light SSW seabreeze each afternoon with possibly evening glassoffs.

Next update: Friday, October 21st

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship Starts Tomorrow!

admin — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:18:21 +0000

Everybody got together today to help La Libertad's community with a beach cleanup at Punta Roca. The ISA and the Event Organizer, Gray Line AVI Tours, have donated an initial amount of USD 1,000 to start a fundraiser that will go to many of the people in the Punta Roca area who have been most affected by the torrential rains and floods. Photo: ISA/Watts

Opening Ceremony will be held at 8am local time and competition will start at 10am

The world’s largest Master’s surfing event will see the Masters (35+), Kahunas (45+) and Women Masters (35+) hitting the water tomorrow

Watch the live webcast on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 17, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

The El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship, the largest Master’s surfing event in history, will start tomorrow with the Opening Ceremony in Punta Roca, and the competition will begin immediately afterwards.

Eight consecutive days of non-stop rain and wind prompted the President of El Salvador to call for a National State of Emergency, delaying the event until conditions were less dangerous. After evaluating Tuesdays’ forecast, federal authorities gave the event a green light to start tomorrow.

Today, Punta Roca hosted another round of free surfing and training with the waves lining up, and sets in the 5 to 8 feet range. But mostly it was a day of helping. Surfers and team officials from 21 countries, ISA staff and judges, organizers and members of the local community spent the entire day at a beach cleanup organized by the ISA. The excessive rain caused the rivers to dump tons of debris on the beach, which hundreds of volunteers cleared in a great spirit of camaraderie.

“To show our respect for the community and the beach where the ISA is having the event, the staff organized a beach cleanup,” said Bob Mignogna, Director General of the International Surfing Association. “Hundreds of people are on the beach right now with trash bags going up and down picking up all the washed up debris. Rain or shine, we’re going to make this event happen!”

French Kahunas competitor Jean Labrucherie, while picking up trash, said, “We are here to help the people of El Salvador clean up the beach because of the storm that is affecting Central America. There is not much we can do, but we do it with love. We hope things improve for the El Salvadorian people.”

The 2006 Latin American Pro Surfing Champion, Argentinean Martín Passeri, proudly wears his country's football team shirt while attacking Punta Roca's lip. Photo: ISA/Watts

Meanwhile, in the water, the waves started to get better little by little and the line up got crowded. Even with onshore winds, Punta Roca showed long walls with good barreling sections. Athletes like three-time World Champion, Tom Curren (USA), former World Tour competitor Dean Randazzo (USA), three-time ISA Masters World Champion, Juan Ashton (PUR) and 2006 Latin American Champion, Martín Passeri (ARG) went to the water and delivered amazing performances in challenging conditions.

“The waves are good; conditions are tough for entering the water and the current is complicated,” said Ashton. “If the tournament would’ve started today, it would have been difficult to catch two waves in a heat. Still, I rode four great waves that anywhere in the world would have been excellent.”

Regarding the situation the country is going through, Ashton commented, “What’s happening here in El Salvador is awful. The local La Libertad people have been so kind and good to us, and it’s terrible to see that they are going through this. I really understand why they have delayed the event. Respects and good wishes to the Salvadoreanpeople that they get out of this tragedy.”

Competitors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Germany, Hawaii, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, USA and Venezuela will start tomorrow at the historic Master event.

Follow the action on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com
Webcast schedule
8am local time is 7am PDT and 10amEDT
10am local time is 9am PDT and 12pmEDT

Beach Cleanup Day + Free Surfing Video Highlights

admin — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 23:32:23 +0000

Beach Cleanup & free surf

admin — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:20:26 +0000

World’s Best Masters Train in Stormy Conditions for the Start of the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:30:00 +0000

The situation in El Salvador is delicate. Strong wind and rain made President Funes call a "State of Emergency". Pictured above: two surfers prepare to paddle out at Punta Roca. Photo: ISA/Watts

President of El Salvador, Mauricio Funes, called a State of Emergency in the country after seven consecutive days of torrential rains forcing the event start to be postponed

The ISA, event organizer Gray Line Avitours, the competitors and coaches are committed to helping the town of La Libertad make it through one of the worst storms in recent years

Keep tuned to all the news on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Now that registration is officially closed, the record-breaking 124 registered competitors are now giving their full attention to the world’s largest Masters surfing event in the sport’s history.

The greatest event ever to be held in El Salvador coincided with the storm of the year, with torrential rains and menacing windsforcing the start of the event to be postponed.

The Masters surfers from 21 countries are also dedicating their off day Monday to help the people of the town of La Libertad, as many of them have been forced to evacuate their homes. A beach clean-up at the event site, Punta Roca, is organized for Monday. The ISA and Greyline Avitours have also begun a fundraiser to help the locals displaced by the storm.

Still, in the midst of an emergency situation, the Masters National Teams have kept their spirits up while practicing on Punta Roca’s long, stormy rights.

Former World Tour top-16 competitor, Hawaiian Ross Williams, wrote on his Twitter account, “Had two really fun surfs here in El Salvador today. Super stoked to see some old faces from back in the day. Tom Curren was out too!”

On the other hand, another former World Tour top-16, Australian Toby Martin, while checking the tough conditions, said, “What a great experience this is! I got to talk to a couple of old mates yesterday like Ross Williams and Jojo de Olivença, and Ross went on to say that it is like being back in 1992, catching up with the boys and having good times. Although there is an overwhelming sense of competitiveness, there is camaraderie as well. We are here to compete against the other nations, but also to have a good time and put on a great display of surfing.”

“I surfed a little bit yesterday, it was a bit stormy but the wave looks pretty good, looks like a lot of fun,” said Three-Time World Champion, Tom Curren (USA) who is making his debut in the event. “This is my first ISA Masters event; it’s really good that they (the ISA) come to places like El Salvador that has good quality waves. I think everybody is happy to be here to compete. We have a good team, so we’re pretty optimistic about doing well, but there are a lot of other good teams.”

“I’ve heard a lot of good things about El Salvador, I have some friends that come down here a lot and they always told me how great it is. The waves are kind of similar to what we have in California but the water is warm and the people are really nice and the country is beautiful. The wave looks a lot like Rincon, that’s where I live, but I just got here so I only saw it when it was stormy, I’m sure it gets a lot better,” ended Curren, who had a free surf session yesterday where he was pointed out as the standout of the day.

South African Graeme Field carves in stormy Punta Roca. Photo: ISA/Guincho

ATTENTION: Due to the emergency situation the country is in, the start of the event as well as the opening ceremony has been postponed. The event is now scheduled to start Tuesday, 8am local time.

Pre Event Highlights

admin — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:16:54 +0000

Pre Event Free Surf

admin — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 20:50:56 +0000

Press conference Highlights

admin — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 13:57:58 +0000

Press Conference Announces the Start of the Historic El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 21:46:56 +0000

L to R: Juan Ashton (PUR), Fabio Gouveia (BRA), Layne Beachley (AUS), Rafael Leret, Carolina Cerna, Carlos Molina, Rodrigo Barraza, Carlos Ortiz and ISA President Fernando Aguerre live from California. Photo: ISA/Quincho

Strong rain forces the postponement of the parade now scheduled for Monday at 5:00pm (4:00pm PDT, 7:00pm EST). Watch it live online on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 15, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Local government authorities, surfers and ISA representatives gathered for the event’s official press conference today at the premises of El Salvador’s Tourism Department in San Salvador, the capital city. They announced the official opening of the world’s largest Masters surfing event in the sport’s history on Monday at the famous point break, Punta Roca in La Libertad.

Dignitaries present were: ISA President, Fernando Aguerre (via Skype); Minister of Tourism Secretary, Carolina Cerna; Mayor of La Libertad, Carlos Molina; President of the El Salvadorian Chamber of Tourism, Rafael Leret, Salvadorian Surfing Federation’s Rodrigo Barraza and event organizer, Grey Line’s Carlos Ortiz. Also present were seven-time Pro Tour Women’s World Champion, Layne Beachley (AUS), three-time ISA Masters World Champion Juan Ashton (PUR) and former Pro Tour star and ISA Open World Champion, Fabio Gouveia (BRA).

“I’m very happy and proud that El Salvador will host its first ISA World Masters Surfing Championship in history,” said ISA President Fernando Aguerre, who was present via Skype (Aguerre couldn’t travel after doctor’s recommendation because of a back injury). “I would have given anything to be there with you. I work for the ISA for the love of the sport and El Salvador is the only Central American country that I have not surfed yet so I really wanted to go. It is my great hope that surfing continues to be a part of the country’s tourism strategy; the following week will be a great way to prove that the strategy is more than great.”

The President of the El Salvadorian Chamber of Tourism, Rafael Leret was happy to welcome 124 athletes from 21 countries. He said, “Surfing is one of the pillars of tourism in El Salvador and is a sport that is practiced in remote areas with needs. It is here where we need to see it developing, to help those families making it a beloved activity for all the inhabitants in these places.”

The surfers who arrived in El Salvador days before the event to practice are thrilled and impressed by the quality of Punta Roca’s waves. “This is one of the best waves in the world,” said defending Champion Ashton. Brazil’s Gouveia, agreed, “When I knew that the event was going to take place here, I tried really hard to make the team and come to surf this awesome wave.”

The legendary surfer, seven-time World Champion Layne Beachley, who had just arrived from the airport, said, “I never had the opportunity to represent Australia as an official National Team member, and I really wanted to do it. So, since I left the professional tour three years ago, I decided to come and defend the colors of my country. We (Aussies) love to win, and yes, I came here to win. I will keep coming back to compete as long as I feel I can win.”

The event will start on Monday at 8:00 am local time (7:00 PDT and 11:00 EST), and it will be broadcast live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com.

The Opening Ceremony was postponed at the request of the President of El Salvador, who declared a State of Emergency due to five consecutive days of torrential rain. The Emergency decree is expected to be lifted Sunday evening after the Opening Ceremony was originally scheduled. It has been rescheduled for Monday at 5:00pm local time (4:00pm PDT, 7:00pm EST).

MEDIA
TV and Photo footage free of rights for editorial use are available upon request, register at http://elsalvadorisawmsc.com/media

Press Conference

admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 21:19:20 +0000

Pre-event Surf Session

admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 16:56:50 +0000

Forecast Update: Friday evening 10/14/2011

pablo — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 03:41:33 +0000

The LOLA image below displays the local SW'erly windswell being kicked up by the trough of low pressure hanging over the region.

BRIEF OVERVIEW: Jumbled mix of SW’erly swells through Sunday and much of next week; mainly local SW windswell with minor SW-SSW Southern Hemi groundswell. Unstable, stormy weather expected to prevail for the next several days.

SUNDAY 16th
SWELL/SURF: Mixed-up blend of mostly local SW windswell and easing/minor SSW groundswell. Unorganized, sloppy surf mainly in the chest-head high range (4-5′) with occasional overhead waves/peaks (6′+).

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with breezy SW wind and rain showers/thunderstorms expected.

MONDAY 17th

SWELL/SURF: Mixed-up blend of mostly easing local SW windswell and minor SSW groundswell. Surf trying to organize a little better, but still jumbled. Surf is mainly in the waist-shoulder high range (3-4′) with occasional head high+ waves/peaks (5′+), biggest in the morning.

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with rain showers/thunderstorms expected. Wind may decrease some with light to moderate, variable southerly flow.

TUESDAY 18th

SWELL/SURF: Mixed-up blend of mostly local SW windswell and minor SSW groundswell. Surf still jumbled, mainly in the waist-shoulder high range (3-4′) with occasional head high waves/peaks (5′). May see 5′+ windswell waves bump up before dark.

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with rain showers/thunderstorms expected. Light to moderate, variable southerly flow in the morning. Then breezy SW wind expected to rise up in the afternoon/night.

WEDNESDAY 19th

SWELL/SURF: Mixed-up blend of increased local SW windswell and minor SSW-SW groundswell. Unorganized, sloppy head-overhead surf (5-7′+) with occasional well overhead waves/peaks (8′+), comprised mainly of the shorter period windswell energy. Stay posted, still pending development.

WEATHER/WIND: Stormy weather with breezy WSW wind and rain showers/thunderstorms expected. Note – WSW flow will be side-offshore for Punta Roca.

SURF SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK

Tropical activity throughout the region has been vigorous lately, as a broad area of disturbed weather associated with a trough of low pressure covers the northern half of Central America into Southern Mexico (with El Salvador right in the middle of it). This trough has setup a substantial amount of breezy South to West wind offshore over the Pacific, directed at El Salvador and the surrounding countries. This fetch will maintain plenty of SW’erly windswell for Punta Roca on Sunday the 16th with mainly chest-head high surf. Occasional overhead waves will show during the better tides. The SW windswell may ease a notch for Mon/Tues (17th-18th) before rising back up once again for Wednesday the 18th with head-overhead+ waves. Stay posted for updates as the local windswell energy can fluctuate depending on the progress of the offshore tropical activity.

Meanwhile, a fading southern hemi SSW groundswell (210-195 deg) will still provide waist-chest occasional shoulder-head high longer period sets Sunday morning, showing a little better as the tide drops some. Although this swell continues to fade going into next week, reinforcing small-scale and overlapping pulses of new southern hemi groundswells are due to arrive; SSW (205-185 deg) topping out Mon/Tues (17th-18th) and SW (225-205 deg) topping out Thursday (20th). Mon-Wed will hold fairly steady with 2-3′+ southern hemi sets at Punta Roca. Thursday will see the longer period SW sets bump up to 3-4′+. Keep in mind that these southern hemis will mix in under the local and more dominant SW windswell that will be running. T SW groundswell will then ease through the rest of the week.

Beyond that; we’ll be watching for the possibility of a new and strong storm/swell development through the next few days over the central-eastern South Pacific. At this time, we may see a gradual build of SW-SSW groundswell (215-190 deg) over the weekend of the 22nd-23rd, peaking on Monday the 24th with potentially solid surf. Stay tuned, still pending development.

Below is a recent satellite image of the region. Bring a raincoat…

WIND/WEATHER CONDITIONS: October is typically the worst month for weather/wind conditions throughout Central America, with heavy rainfall scattered throughout and onshore winds prevailing regularly. Currently, a broad area of disturbed weather stretches offshore and over El Salvador with potential for further development into an organized system. As a result, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue for the next several days throughout the region. At this point; Sunday the 16th and Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday the 18th-19th are expected to see breezy side-onshore flow from the SW for Punta Roca. Monday the 17th and Tuesday morning may have pockets of fair conditions, while Thursday the 20th could see a clean up with light northerly wind. Keep in mind that the weather/wind in the region is very dynamic and capable of changing quickly and drastically. NOTE – Passing showers and thunderstorms will be capable of affecting/switching local wind conditions around. Keep in mind that heavy rainfall will affect road conditions.

http://www.surfline.com/hurricanetrak/

Next update: Monday, October 17^th

Press Conference – El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

pablo — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 01:04:08 +0000

Conferencia de Prensa
El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
Mundial de Surf Master
16 al 23 de octubre en La Libertad

Estimados colegas:

Por la presente los invitamos a la conferencia de prensa oficial de apertura del Campeonato Mundial Master, El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.

La misma se llevará a cabo en el Ministerio de Turismo/CORSATUR localizado en Alameda Manuel Enrique Araujo Edificio Carbonell #1 el sábado 15 de octubre a las 10:00am.

Estarán presentes, conformando la mesa de honor:
-Presidente de la International Surfing Association: Fernando Aguerre
-Ministro de Turismo: José Napoleón Duarte
-Alcalde de La Libertad: Carlos Molina
-Presidente del Comité Olímpico de El Salvador, Eduardo Palomo
-Presidente de la Cámara Salvadoreña de Turismo: Rafael Leret
-Directivo de la FESASURF: Rodrigo Barraza
-Organizador Local: Carlos Ortiz
-Heptacampeona Mundial, Layne Beachley (AUS)
-Tricampeón Mundial Juan Ashton (PUR)

Una vez finalizada la conferencia se agasajará a los medios presentes con un cóctel.

Meet El Salvador Impresionante

admin — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:52:05 +0000

Defending Champion Australia Looks for Another Gold With a Strong Team

admin — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 02:08:06 +0000

The 1978 Professional World Champion, Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew, will be looking for the Gold in the perfect rights of Punta Roca. Photo: ASP

With the addition of 1978 World Champion, Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholomew, the Aussies travel to El Salvador with eight world titles in the bag.

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16 to 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Surfing Australia has announced 1978 Professional Tour World Champion Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholomew as its wildcard surfer for TravelSIM Team Australia at the El Salvador ISA World Masters Championship that will be held in Punta Roca, La Libertad from October 16 to 23.

Bartholomew replaces current ISA Masters World Champion Rod Baldwin, who had to withdraw from the team. His inclusion ensures Australia boasts an imposing line-up, which also includes seven-time ASP World Champion Layne Beachley, for the titles to be held at the perfect and long rights of Punta Roca.

The El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championships will see over 20 countries and 124 surfers competing in the Masters, Grand Masters, Kahuna, Grand Kahuna and Women Masters divisions.

“It feels pretty amazing to be part of a team and competing as pro surfing is so much an individual sport,” Bartholomew said. “I’ve been in a position before as national coach and taken teams away, so I’ve experienced life in the team and been part of a winning team, but it was on the management side of things. To be competing as an athlete in a team environment is unexpected but something I’m looking forward to as it’s going to be a unique experience for me.”

Surfing Australia CEO Andrew Stark said the organization was thrilled to have Bartholomew don the Australian colors for the championships. “Rabbit is a dedicated surfing competitor with a record that speaks for itself,” Stark said. “Having Rabbit and Layne as part of the team is an indication of how seriously we are taking the ISA World Masters Surfing Championships and we’re confident of getting a good result in El Salvador.”

Former ASP World Tour competitor, Toby Martin, strengthens the Defending Champion Team. Photo: Surfing Australia

Baldwin, from Copacabana Beach in NSW, was devastated to miss the opportunity to defend the title he won at the 2010 ISA World Masters Surfing Championships in Panama.

“I was really looking forward to joining the team, particularly with Layne competing this year,” Baldwin said. “I love representing the country and I wish everyone the best as I’ll be watching the live coverage and I hope they all bring back gold.”

The Masters TravelSIM Team Australia representatives:

Women Masters (35 years or older)
- Layne Beachley (NSW)

Masters (35 years or older)
- Mark Richardson (QLD)
- Toby Martin (NSW)

Grand Masters (40 years or older)
- Scott Myers (NSW)
- John Schmidenberg (NSW)

Kahunas (45 years or older)
- Rowan Sapwell (VIC)
- Dean Shaw (NSW)

Grand Kahuna (50 years or older)
- Wayne Bartholomew (Qld)

Press release compiled by Surfing Australia – www.surfingaustralia.com

Official TV Ad

admin — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:05:19 +0000

Surfing Legend Tom Curren to Compete at El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:34:35 +0000

Curren's trademark frontside approach will be one of Team USA´s deadliest weapon. Photo: Rip Curl

The stylish and fan favorite three-time Pro World Champion will relive good times at Latin America’s Jeffreys Bay

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16 to 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

Tom Curren (USA), one of the most influential surfers in the sport’s history will be defending the United States’ colors at the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship from October 16 to 23 at the perfect, hollow point-break of Punta Roca.

Early this week, the 1985, 1986 and 1990 World Champion confirmed his participation at the largest team event for 35+ year-old surfers. Curren will certainly be one of the United States’ standouts for the team’s debut in this yearly event.

From his NSSA national victories in the late 70s to the maiden 1980 ISA Junior World Title in France, then the fame from his professional tour victories, his world titles and the free surfing years, when he searched for perfect empty waves in remote locations, Curren, now 47, has seen it all.

The best surfer of all time, ten-time World Champion Kelly Slater, has acknowledged that Tom Curren was always his favorite surfer. A perfect mixture of flow, timing and power make his surfing especially unique. As renowned surfing writer Matt Warshaw wrote, “Curren’s reputation as one of the world’s greatest surfers in history is supported by his accomplishments as a competitor. But most surfers would define Curren as an artist, then as a world champion…”

As Curren travels to Punta Roca, it is interesting to note that this wave is considered the Jeffreys Bay of Latin America.

The real Jeffreys Bay, in South Africa, was the scene of one of surfing’s most memorable and anticipated surf sessions. After years of abstaining from surfing Jeffreys Bay as a protest against apartheid, in May of 1992 the three-time World Champion decided to pay a visit to what’s considered the ultimate point-break. It was as if they had known each other forever; Curren’s surfing suited the wave perfectly and he put on one of the greatest displays of surfing ever witnessed by the surfing world.

In less than ten days, Curren will relive those good times in the Latin American version of the wave he loves so much.

Tom Curren, one of the greatest surfers of all time, will be in La Libertad, El Salvador from October 16 to 23 looking forward to winning another ISA Gold Medal for the USA National Team and for himself, meeting back up with old friends and reliving his beloved Jeffrey’s Bay, this time in Latin America.

Follow the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship here: www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

Forecast Update: Monday evening 10/10/2011

admin — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:48:29 +0000

Image above shows the mix of West-SW swells lining up for the start of the event on the 16th of October.

BRIEF OVERVIEW: The Eastern Pacific is currently hosting vigorous tropical activity, which will deliver plenty of swell to the region this week and likely for the start of the event on Sunday the 16th into early next week. Joining in for the kick off will also be an easing Southern Hemi SW-SSW groundswell. Conditions are still suspect at this time.

http://www.surfline.com/hurricanetrak/

SURF SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK

Jova/Irwin, in addition to a broad area of low pressure currently about 450nm to the SW of El Salvador (which may develop further over the next couple days), is expected to deliver a decent amount of short to mid period West-SW swell at the start of the event. At this time, the first couple days or so (16th-17th+) is looking quite solid with consistent overhead to 2-3′ overhead+ sets wrapping in at Punta Roca. However, the surf will likely to be a bit unorganized and jumbled due to the close proximity of the swell source, the shorter period West-SW energy with a broad range of 220-270 deg, and variable side to onshore WSW-SW wind. This swell may then drop off rather quickly by Tuesday into the middle of next week (18th-19th), but that will depend greatly on the progress of the offshore tropical activity through the next several days or so.

In addition; a southern hemi SW groundswell (215-195 deg) will steadily build in this Thursday, topping out over Friday the 14th before starting it’s downward trend over the weekend and into next week. Although easing by the start of the event, this longer period energy will still deliver chest-head high occasional overhead sets on Sunday the 16th, mixing with the more dominant shorter period swell mentioned above. As we move through the first half of next week, the slow easing SW gradually shifting SSW groundswell (200-190 deg) may linger enough to still provide some fun size waist-chest high+ sets as the shorter period energy drops out and the conditions hopefully clean up some.

Beyond that; we may possibly see a new SW groundswell (220-210 deg) move in over the 19th-21st. Although this next potential swell is looking small-scale at this time, it may offer some contestable sets for Punta Roca. Stay tuned as that storm/swell still needs to fully develop.

WIND/WEATHER CONDITIONS: October is typically the worst month for weather/wind conditions throughout the region, with heavy rainfall scattered throughout Central America and onshore winds prevailing regularly. In addition, the tropics are very active at the moment with organized systems (Jova and Irwin). Furthermore, we are watching for another possible cyclone that may develop over the next couple days within close proximity to El Salvador.

Overall; scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through at least the next several days for the region. As well, onshore wind episodes can prevail for much of the day, to even all day. Punta Roca will likely be cleanest through the early mornings with side to offshore West-WSW wind. NOTE – Passing showers and thunderstorms will be capable of affecting/switching local wind conditions around. Keep in mind that heavy rainfall will affect road conditions.

Next update: Friday, October 14^th

Former Women’s World Pro Tour Stars Confirmed for El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:47:07 +0000

Seven-time ASP World Champion, Layne Beachley (AUS), will prove her skills as a Master surfer at the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship. Photo: Surfing Australia

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16 to 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

A revival of the some of the best match-ups of the Women’s ASP World Tour in the late 90s and early 00’s will take place during the 2011 edition of the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship with Layne Beachley (AUS), Rochelle Ballard (HAW), Tita Tavares (BRA) and Heather Clark (RSA) competing in the event.

The four surfers were amongst the world’s surfing elite at some point from the mid-80s until early 2000. All of them achieved a top 5 ranking, making history for their countries.

Australian Layne Beachley won most of the sizzling hot match-ups, becoming the most successful female surfer in the history of the sport, with seven world titles (98, 99, 00, 01, 02, 03 and 06). Other than winning titles, Beachley has shown great daring and business savvy, as she surfs big waves all over the world, while owning and directing the richest women’s pro surfing tournament on the current Pro Tour.

Another great big-wave surfer participating in the event is Hawaiian Rochelle Ballard. Considered one of the world’s best tube riders, ASP World Tour runner-up in 2004, Ballard will give a good fight in the perfect and barreling rights of Punta Roca.

María Tita Tavares, from the waves of Titanzinho, Fortaleza, in the northeast of Brazil, was the 2000 ISA Open Women’s World Champion, four-time Brazilian Champion and one of the ASP World Tour top 5 several times. She’s a flow master and small wave specialist, who surfs as well today as she did when on tour.

Heather Clark, the defending and two-time ISA Masters World Champion, and also formerly a World Tour top 5, is known for her sharp backside carving in perfect hollow waves. This will be an important tool in the long, classic conditions at Punta Roca.

Punta Roca's waves will be a perfect match for the sharp surfing of former ASP World Tour surfers, Layne Beachley (AUS), Rochelle Ballard (HAW), Heather Clark (RSA), Tita Tavares (BRA) and the rest of the world's best master women surfers. Photo: Vaquero

From October 16 to 23, the best over 35 year-old surfers in the world will be competing in the epic surf at Punta Roca, the Latin America’s Jeffreys Bay, known the world over as the best right hand point break, for the National Team and Individual gold medals in five divisions – Women’s 35 and Over, Men’s 35 and Over, 40 and Over, 45 and Over, and 50 and Over.

Follow the event live on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

Welcome to Punta Roca

admin — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 17:07:52 +0000

More about El Salvador

admin — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:17:30 +0000

Top Masters Surfers Prepare for Their World Championship

admin — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:31:29 +0000

Puerto Rican Juan Ashton won the Masters title in 2007 and 2008, and last year he won the Grand Masters. He's looking forward to his fourth straight gold in El Salvador.

The El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship starts on October 16, gathering the world’s top surfers 35 years and older

El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16 to 23
La Libertad, El Salvador

Watch the live webcast on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

In less than four weeks, 128 of the world’s best over 35-year-old surfers from 25 countries will assemble at Central America’s epic point break, Punta Roca, to compete in the El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.

From October 16 until the 23, two Masters (35+), two Grand Masters (40+), two Kahunas (45+), one Grand Kahuna (50+) and one Women Master (35+) from each country will contend for one of Surfing’s greatest honors: to earn a medal for their nation in an ISA World Championship.

For each of the five divisions, competitors will surf to win individual gold, silver, bronze and copper medals. Each athlete’s performance will count toward their country’s final standing, and the top country will win the most prestigious award, the Team Gold Medal.

This is the fourth edition of the event that started in 2007 in Puerto Rico, then went to Peru in 2008, and was held last year in Panama. South Africa won the first two editions. Last year, the surfing powerhouse, Australia, won in the big waves of Santa Catalina and now travels to El Salvador as the defending champion.

“I’m thrilled about the upcoming El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship,” said ISA President Fernando Aguerre. “This is the most amazing competition for any Master surfer in the world. Combine this with such an epic wave like Punta Roca and what you’ll get is one of the world-greatest surfing displays you can imagine. I look forward to this awesome event.”

As the competition gains in prestige and popularity since its inception, nations have begun to gather their top surfers, with hopes of capturing the Team Trophy.

Former ASP World Tour competitor, Heather Clark from South Africa, won two golds at the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship and goes for a third in El Salvador.

Some big names already confirmed include seven-time ASP World Champion Layne Beachley (AUS), former ISA World Champion and ASP top 5 Fabio Gouveia (BRA), former ASP World Tour competitor Toby Martin (AUS), three-time ISA Masters World Champion Chris Knutsen (RSA) and former ASP World Tour Women’s top 5 and Defending ISA Women’s Masters World Champion, Heather Clark, among others.

Expect a heated rivalry between Australia and South Africa for the top spot. But the strong teams of Brazil, France, Peru, USA and Hawaii can never be overlooked as contenders.

The long rights of Punta Roca will be a perfect fit for the best Masters surfers. From October 16 to 23 the best surfing will be on display in El Salvador. Follow the action on www.elsalvadorisawmsc.com

2010 Panama ISA WMSC

admin — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 23:49:52 +0000

2010 Panama ISAWMSC

admin — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:24:05 +0000

Ten Things You Need to Know About the 2011 ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:04:00 +0000

ISA World Masters Surfing Championship
October 16 to 23, 2011
La Libertad, El Salvador

The most prestigious Masters surfing event, the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship, will be held from October 16 to 23, in La Libertad, El Salvador.

The best surfers over 35 year old from more than 15 countries will meet in the epic waves of Punta Roca to decide the winner of the World Team Gold medal, as well as the ISA World Champions in the Masters, Grand Masters, Kahunas, Grand Kahunas and Women Masters divisions.

The Ten Things You Need to Know About the 2011 ISA World Masters Surfing Championship are:

One
The ISA World Masters Surfing Championship is the biggest surfing event in the world for surfers older than 35 years, taking in consideration the surfing level, amount of competitors and participating countries. This is the pinnacle for every Master surfer around the planet.

Two
It is an “Olympic Style” event. Teams compete for medals and the honor of representing their nations. The excellence of competitive surfing reaches it highest level as each participant is not surfing for money, but for their flags.

Three
The ISA World Masters Surfing Championship is an annual event that started in 2007 in Rincón, Puerto Rico. The International Surfing Association decided to hold a special event for Masters due to the growing level and popularity of this division. The decision proved to be wise, as these days the desire of every Master surfer is to represent their country in this coveted event.

Four
The ISA World Masters Surfing Championship is being held for the second time in Central America. The 2010 edition of the event was held in Santa Catalina, Panamá. It will be the fourth World Championship to be held in mainland Central America since the 2009 Billabong ISA World Surfing Games that took place in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica.

Five
El Salvador won the hosting bid over other candidate nations because of its great commitment to a better surfing future, a coast packed with consistent waves and also to promote surfing in the region.

Six
Over 120 surfers from more than 15 countries will be competing in the event. It will feature the following divisions with the following maximum competitors per country:

Masters (Over 35): 2 competitors per country
Grand Masters (Over 40): 2 competitors per country
Kahunas (Over 45): 2 competitors per country
Grand Kahunas (Over 50): 1 competitor per country
Women Masters (Over 35): 1 competitor per country

Seven
The fourth edition of the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship will officially open on October 16 with the Parade of Nations and the Sands of the World Ceremony at La Libertad. The participating countries will pour the sand from their favorite beaches into the same box, representing the peaceful union of the nations through the love of the sport of surfing.

Eight
Previous Medalists of the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship

Masters are:

2010 – Santa Catalina, Panama
Overall Team Standings
Final Team Medal Standings:
Gold: Australia – 10456 points
Silver: South Africa – 10196 points
Bronze: Brazil – 8770 points
Copper: Puerto Rico – 8684 points

Masters
Gold: Andrew Banks (RSA)
Silver: Brett Bannister (AUS)
Bronze: Dean Hall (AUS)
Copper: Juan Ashton (PUR)

Grand Masters
Gold: Juan Ashton (PUR)
Silver: Glen Pringle (AUS)
Bronze: Andre Malherbe (RSA)
Copper: Ricardo Villanueva (PUR)

Kahunas
Gold: Rod Baldwin (AUS)
Silver: Sergio Penna (BRA)
Bronze: David Malherbe (RSA)
Copper: Martín Jerí (PER)

Grand Kahunas
Gold: Chris Knutsen (RSA)
Silver: Javier Huarcaya (PER)
Bronze: Kenneth Myers (PAN)
Copper: Javier Gorbea (PUR)

Women Masters
Gold: Heather Clark (RSA)
Silver: Andrea Lopes (BRA)
Bronze: Patricia Rossi (TAH)
Copper: Sandra English (AUS)

2008 – Punta Rocas, Peru
Overall Team Standing
Gold: South Africa
Silver: Australia
Bronze: Brazil
Copper: Peru

Masters
Gold: Juan Ashton (PRI)
Silver: Ricardo Toledo (BRA)
Bronze: Rob Page (AUS)
Copper: Jay Sharpe (AUS)

Grand Masters
Gold: Rob Page (AUS)
Silver: Magoo de la Rosa (PER)
Bronze: Jojó de Olivença (BRA)
Copper: Andre Malherbe (ZAF)

Kahunas
Gold: Marc Wright (RSA)
Silver: Nick Pike (RSA)
Bronze: Jorge Posso (PER)
Copper: Rod Baldwin (AUS)

Grand Kahunas
Gold: Chris Knutsen (RSA)
Silver: Paco del Castillo (PER)
Bronze: Frank Hayter (AUS)
Copper: René González (PRC)

Women Masters
Gold: Heather Clark (RSA)
Silver: Rocío Larrañaga (PER)
Bronze: Sandra English (AUS)
Copper: Briggite Mayer (BRA)

2007 – Rincón, Puerto Rico
Overall Team Standing
Gold: South Africa
Silver: Puerto Rico
Bronze: Tahiti
Copper: Peru

Masters:
Gold: Juan Ashton (PRI)
Silver: Heifara Tahutini (TAH)
Bronze: Wagner Pupo (BRA)
Copper: John McCarthy (RSA)

Grand Masters
Gold: Magoo de la Rosa (PER)
Silver: Heinare Paez (TAH)
Bronze: Alberto Licha (PRI)
Copper: David Malherbe (RSA)

Kahunas
Gold: Chris Knutsen (RSA)
Silver: Javier Huarcaya (PER)
Bronze: Gilles Asenjo (FRA)
Copper: Rudi Palmboom (RSA)

Nine
Fast facts
-South Africa has won two out of three events. In 2010, Australia won the last event missing in its trophy cabinet by winning the Panama ISA World Masters Surfing Championship’s trophy.

-The only two surfers in the history of the event that have won three gold medals are Chris Knutsen from South Africa and Juan Ashton from Puerto Rico.

-Rob Page from Australia and Juan Ashton from Puerto Rico are the only two surfers in the history of the event to make two finals at the same WMSC. In Peru in 2008 Page won the Grand Masters division and the bronze in the Masters division. Ashton achieved the same result last year in Panama.

Ten
The best Master surfers from around the world have been lucky with the waves in this ISA signature event. In 2007, the waves of Marías reached a solid barreling eight-foot. At the 2008 contest, Punta Rocas had a non-stop swell that never dropped below six feet and had sets coming in at 10 feet. Santa Catalina in 2010 reached the 10-foot mark and had a final day with solid six-foot waves.

La Libertad’s Punta Roca is known for its perfect and consistent barreling rights, it’s easy to expect another year of perfect barreling waves.

History of Surfing, the ISA and the World Masters Surfing Championship

admin — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 13:03:20 +0000

The roots of surfing reach back to the early Pacific islands when the ancestors of Polynesians and others started exploring the ocean and islands around them. While there is no specific date as to when the first wave was ever surfed, it is generally known that by the 1700s, Hawaiians had begun to amaze foreign sailors and explorers with their wave-riding skills.

Surfing continued to develop in Hawaii and gained international importance in the 1900’s when the famous Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku won the gold medal for swimming in the 1912 Olympic Games. Within the context of public relations, an exhibition tour was organized throughout the world, which enabled many countries to be exposed to surfing.

As a result, surfing grew in popularity, and in 1964 during the first World Surfing Championships near Sydney, Australia, the ISF (International Surfing Federation) was created, with Eduardo Arena elected as President. This association gathered all the surfing nations together and began organizing world championships every other year. In November 1976, in Hawaii, the ISF gave way to the ISA (International Surfing Association).

The ISA is the world’s governing authority for surfing and all its waveriding disciplines, including bodyboard, kneeboard, longboard, tandem, skimboard and bodysurf. The ISA governs the sports and works for their development in its member nations and the establishment of the sport of surfing in new places.

Starting in 2007, the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship became the pinnacle of the career of any surfer older than 35 year-old. It is an annual event, open to the official National Surfing Teams of the ISA’s member nations. Historically, the event has granted to its winners the title of “World Champion”. The ISA World Masters Surfing Championship is also one of the largest events in competitive surfing.

Since 1996, the Sands of the World Ceremony have been held during the Opening Ceremony of the World Surfing Games, the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship and the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, to symbolize the true fraternal spirit that bonds together all members of the Surfing Tribe. The union of the countries of the world in this Ceremony is symbolized through the mixing of the sands from the shores of all participating delegations, showcasing the ISA hopes for a peaceful world.

The ISA will continue to promote its World Championship events as the true “Olympics” of surfing. With gold, silver, bronze and copper medals awarded, the athletes will be competing for the honor to represent their country and national colors, in the true nature of surfings aloha spirit and fair play.

Previous Results of the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship:

Masters
Gold: Andrew Banks (RSA)
Silver: Brett Bannister (AUS)
Bronze: Dean Hall (AUS)
Copper: Juan Ashton (PUR)

Grand Masters
Gold: Juan Ahston (PUR)
Silver: Glen Pringle (AUS)
Bronze: Andre Malherbe (RSA)
Copper: Ricardo Villanueva (PUR)