The Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, a key event on the World Surf League (WSL) North America Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) 1,000, commenced in Pismo Beach, California. This event marks the start of the 2025/2026 season, crucial for longboarders aiming to qualify for the 2026 WSL Longboard Tour. The Surfing For Hope Foundation returns as the title sponsor, continuing its mission to support cancer patients and families.
Key Takeaways
- The event window ran from November 14-16, 2025.
- Opening day was called off due to eight-foot, stormy, and incontestable swell.
- Jack Van Wagoner and Lia Diaz were crowned champions.
- The event supports the Surfing For Hope Foundation’s fight against cancer.
Event Opening and Challenges
The competition was set to begin on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Pismo Beach Pier. However, the initial swell proved too powerful, with eight-foot waves and occasional larger sets in stormy conditions leading organizers to call off the day. A decision on when competition would resume was to be made the following morning.
Notable Competitors and Defending Champions
The event featured a strong field of North America’s top longboard talents. Among them were defending champions Malia Ilagan and Cole Robbins, both of whom used victories at this event in previous years to gain momentum towards WSL Longboard Tour qualification. Other notable surfers included Kai McPhillips, son of three-time World Longboard Champion Colin McPhillips, and veteran Andy Nieblas. The roster also included Chloe Coleman, Liv Stokes, Jack Van Wagoner, and Star D’Elia, all vying for crucial qualification points.
Champions Crowned Amidst Improved Conditions
As the competition window progressed, conditions improved, allowing the event to conclude. Jack Van Wagoner emerged victorious in the men’s division, adding another significant win to his career. In the women’s division, Lia Diaz delivered an impressive performance to secure her maiden win at the Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, marking her as a rising contender for WSL Longboard Tour qualification.
Surfing For Hope Foundation’s Mission
Beyond the competition, the Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic serves a greater purpose. The Surfing For Hope Foundation, a local non-profit, uses the event to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients and their families. This marks the fourth consecutive year the foundation has sponsored the event, highlighting the powerful connection between surfing, community, and supporting those affected by cancer.
Sources
- Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic Called OFF for the Day, 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.
- Opening Day Stage Set at Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, World Surf League.
- Who’s In: Surfing For Hope Longboard Classic, World Surf League.
