The annual Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic in Pismo Beach faced an unexpected delay on its opening day due to severe storm conditions and large swells. The World Surf League (WSL) postponed the initial heats, rescheduling the start for Saturday morning, contingent on improved weather. This event not only showcases top longboard talent but also raises crucial awareness for cancer patients and their families, with a planned Cancer Resource Health Fair on the pier.
Key Takeaways
- Opening day of the Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic was postponed due to stormy weather and eight-foot waves.
- Competition was rescheduled to resume Saturday morning, with organizers aiming for an 8:00 a.m. start.
- The event supports cancer patients and their families, with a health fair planned.
- Despite the delay, organizers are committed to completing the competition within the original window.
Stormy Start Forces Competition Postponement
Friday’s planned commencement of the Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic was met with challenging conditions. Eight-foot waves, with occasional larger sets, combined with stormy weather at the Pismo Beach Pier, were deemed too unpredictable for safe competition by the WSL. This led to the decision to call off the day’s events.
Contest director Andy McKay expressed confidence in adapting the schedule, stating, "With the big wave delay today, we’re still able to get three days of competition into two days. We go longer days on Saturday and Sunday and we also do a little bit shorter heats." He assured that the event would proceed unless faced with lightning or fog, highlighting past successes in similar weather scenarios.
Competition Resumes with Intense Heats
Once conditions improved, the Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic kicked off with significant action. The competition window, running through Sunday, November 16, saw surfers from the Central Coast and beyond battling it out. Heats were shortened to accommodate the condensed schedule, with organizers reconvening early Saturday for a 7:30 a.m. call for a potential 8:00 a.m. start.
Notable performances emerged quickly. Defending event champion Cole Robbins demonstrated his prowess with a strong opening heat total of 15.60. Lia Diaz from Costa Rica made a dominant debut in the women’s division, showcasing impressive nose-riding skills. Other standout surfers included Cash Hoover and Kai McPhillips, both bringing experience from higher-level WSL events. Kai McPhillips’ father, three-time World Longboard Champion Colin McPhillips, also advanced, creating a unique family dynamic in the competition.
Event’s Dual Purpose: Competition and Charity
Beyond the athletic competition, the Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic serves a vital charitable purpose. The event aims to raise awareness and support for cancer patients and their families. A Cancer Resource Health Fair was scheduled to take place on the pier on Saturday, weather permitting, offering resources and information to the community.
Sources
- Storm delays start of Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic, KSBY News.
- 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.
