Jeffrey's Bay - Billabong
Photo Courtesy of http://www.billabongpro.com
Be a part of the massive swell that has defined J-Bay’s coastline for over 20 years – and we’re not talking about the waves. Thousands of people, including the world’s top 45 surfers, will flock to Jeffrey’s Bay from evry year in July to experience the Billabong Pro.. This event marks the halfway point on the ASP World Tour – a series of 10 surfing events designed to determine the annual world champion of male surfers.
The first Billabong Pro Jeffrey’s Bay, then called the Beach Hotel Classic, was held in 1981 with sponsorship to the value of just R850. However, the epic waves, ideal location, and support of the rising surf legends of the day meant that it wasn’t long before this competition evolved into one of legendary proportions. In 1993, the value of the competition was recognised, and it was promoted to a World Qualifying Series in the ASP World Tour. Now, 22 tournaments since its inception (there were no competitions held in 1985/6), the Billabong Pro has become a prestigious event, renowned by surfers and the industry as a first-class test for aspiring world champs
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World champions Kelly Slater, Andy Irons, Mick Fanning, Taj Burrow, Joel Parkinson and Mark Occhilupo showcase their skills as surfing legends, leaving no room for doubt as to how they earned their ranking. Local surf legends, who enjoy similar acclaim the world over, will be participating; including Travis Logie and Greg Emslie. In addition, Ricky Blasnett, Jordy Smith and Royden Bryson will also add local flavour to this international event, demonstrating their spectacular dexterity on the famous Jeffrey’s Bay waves.
While only four days are necessary to determine the Billabong Pro winner, the competition has been extended to 12 days in order to allow judges to decide on competition days within that period that present ideal waves and weather conditions at Supertubes. This location is acclaimed for its substantial swell and straight hollow cylinders, creating a ride of up to 800m, and is recognised as one of the world’s top ten surfing spots.
Apart from the spectacular surfing, a 3-day music festival will entertain J-Bay locals, visitors and surfing enthusiasts from 12 – 14 July. In addition, Jeffrey’s Bay offers beachfront accommodation and a range of restaurants and café’s, creating the ideal destination for travellers from all over the world, regardless of your unique requirements. For those on a surfing vacation, all equipment is locally available, and hot surf spots include Supertubes, Magnatubes, Impossibles and Boneyards. It is recommended that first-time J-Bay surfers consult with the locals regarding popular beaches and safety precautions.
The Billabong Pro Jeffrey’s Bay promises to live up to its world-class reputation and provide spectators and competitors alike with breathtaking waves, spectacular surfing skills, and a deserving champion.
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