The Surf City El Salvador Pro has officially kicked off, bringing together elite surfers from around the globe to compete at the stunning Punta Roca. This event, part of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, runs from April 2 to April 12, 2025, and promises thrilling heats as competitors vie for crucial points in the race for the world title.
Key Takeaways
- Event Duration: April 2 – April 12, 2025
- Location: Punta Roca, El Salvador
- Notable Competitors: Italo Ferreira, Yago Dora, Caroline Marks, and local wildcard Bryan Perez
- Wildcards: Six wildcards, including Bryan Perez, aim to disrupt the competition
- Forecast: Fun to good surf conditions expected, with potential for larger swells mid-week
Event Overview
The Surf City El Salvador Pro marks the fourth stop on the WSL Championship Tour, featuring a mix of seasoned competitors and promising wildcards. Punta Roca is renowned for its perfect right-hand point break, offering ideal conditions for high-performance surfing. The event is crucial for surfers looking to secure their standings before the mid-season cut.
Wildcard Competitors
This year, six wildcards have been granted entry into the competition, each eager to make their mark:
- Bryan Perez (SLV): A local favorite who previously defeated Italo Ferreira in 2024, Perez is looking to capitalize on his home advantage.
- Alyssa Spencer (USA): A former full-time competitor, Spencer aims to leverage her experience against top-tier surfers.
- Levi Slawson (USA): Making his CT debut, Slawson faces a tough challenge in his opening heat.
- Ian Gentil (HAW): An injury replacement, Gentil is ready to showcase his skills.
- Nadia Erostarbe (ESP): Another injury replacement, Erostarbe is set to compete in her first CT event.
- Kirra Pinkerton (USA): Returning to the CT scene, Pinkerton is eager to prove herself.
Notable Matchups
The opening rounds feature several exciting matchups:
- Men’s Heat 1: Rio Waida (INA) vs. Connor O’Leary (JPN) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)
- Men’s Heat 6: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Bryan Perez (SLV) vs. George Pittar (AUS)
- Women’s Heat 2: Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
- Women’s Heat 4: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS)
Surf Conditions and Forecast
The forecast for the event indicates fun to good surf conditions, with wave heights expected to reach 5-6 feet during the opening days. As the competition progresses, a solid swell is anticipated, potentially leading to overhead surf by mid-week. This combination of conditions is expected to provide an exciting backdrop for the competitors.
Conclusion
As the Surf City El Salvador Pro unfolds, all eyes will be on the competitors as they navigate the challenging waves of Punta Roca. With a mix of seasoned veterans and hungry wildcards, the event promises to deliver high-stakes action and unforgettable moments in the world of competitive surfing. Fans can catch all the action live on the WSL’s official platforms.
Sources
- Off for the Day, Next Call Apr 3, 2025 6:15 AM CST for Day2 of Surf City El Salvador Pro, Surf News Network.
- WSL Surf City El Salvador Pro Wildcards Gearing Up for Tough Competition, Sports Illustrated.
- City Life Org – Surf City El Salvador Pro Brings World’s Best Back to Punta Roca, City Life Org.
- Surf City El Salvador Pro Official Forecast, Surfline.
- 6 Wildcards Get Called Up For the Surf City El Salvador Pro, SURFER Magazine.
