The Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, a key event in the World Surf League (WSL) North America Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) 1,000, returned to Pismo Beach, California, from November 14-16, 2025. This event marks the start of the 2025/2026 season, offering crucial points for surfers aiming to qualify for the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour. The competition, now in its fourth year, also serves as a platform for the Surfing For Hope Foundation to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients and their families.
Key Takeaways
- The event window ran from November 14-16, 2025, with competition held at the Pismo Beach Pier.
- It served as the season opener for the WSL North America Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) 1,000.
- The Surfing For Hope Foundation, a non-profit supporting cancer patients, is the title sponsor.
- Defending champions Malia Ilagan and Cole Robbins returned to compete.
Opening Day Challenges and Triumphs
The opening day of the Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic faced a temporary setback due to an eight-foot swell with occasional larger sets under stormy conditions, leading organizers to call off competition for the day. However, as conditions improved, the event quickly got underway, showcasing the region’s top longboard talent.
Style and Determination on Finals Day
As the competition progressed, three-to-four-foot swells provided an excellent canvas for surfers to display their skills. Finals Day saw intense matchups as athletes battled for crucial qualification points. Cole Robbins, the defending event champion, started his campaign with a strong performance, aiming to requalify for the Longboard Tour. Costa Rica’s Lia Diaz made a dominant debut in the women’s division, showcasing impressive nose-riding and footwork. The event also featured the notable participation of the McPhillips father-son duo, Colin and Kai McPhillips, with both advancing through their respective heats.
Notable Performances and Aspirations
Several surfers demonstrated exceptional talent throughout the event. Lia Diaz’s strong showing in the women’s rounds highlighted her potential as a WSL Longboard Tour qualification hopeful. Cash Hoover, a recent Longboard Tour wildcard, also delivered a convincing heat win, leveraging her experience against emerging stars. The competition not only provided a platform for athletic achievement but also underscored the event’s commitment to supporting the Surfing For Hope Foundation’s mission.
Sources
- Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic Called OFF for the Day, World Surf League.
- Style and Determination Determine Finals Day at Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, World Surf League.
- Opening Day Stage Set at Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, World Surf League.
- Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic 2025, World Surf League.
- Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic Provides WSL North America Longboard Season Start, World Surf League.
