Virginia Beach Pro Returns: A Legacy Event Kicks Off East Coast Surf Season

The World Surf League (WSL) North America Qualifying Series (QS) is back in Virginia Beach for the highly anticipated Virginia Beach Pro Presented by Coastal Edge ECSC. This iconic event, now in its 63rd year, runs alongside the longest-standing surf competition on the East Coast, marking a significant start to the 2025/2026 season and offering crucial Challenger Series qualification points.

Key Takeaways

• The Virginia Beach Pro Presented by Coastal Edge ECSC is the second stop of the 2025/2026 North America QS season.
• Defending champions Blayr Barton and Alana Lopez are set to compete.
• The event runs from August 20-24, coinciding with the 63rd annual Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships (ECSC).
• Promising swell is forecasted, adding excitement for competitors and spectators alike.

A Legacy Event Returns

The Virginia Beach Pro, held at the historic 1st Street Jetty, has a rich history dating back to 2011, attracting top talent and former Championship Tour (CT) competitors. This year’s event continues that legacy, providing a vital platform for emerging surfers to gain experience and points towards the Challenger Series.

Defending Champions Ready to Make Their Mark

Last year’s victors, Blayr Barton and Alana Lopez, are returning to defend their titles. Barton, a local favorite, made history by becoming the second local to win the event since Michael Dunphy in 2014. Lopez, following in the footsteps of her father, former CT competitor Cory Lopez, is eager to add another win to her burgeoning career.

Stacked Field of Contenders

The competition is expected to be fierce, with a strong lineup of North America’s top QS surfers. Virginia Beach’s own Michael Dunphy, a multiple-time event winner, will be competing on home turf. Other notable surfers include Challenger Series contenders like Dimitri Poulos, Ryan Huckabee, and Reid Van Wagoner, as well as rising talents such as Eden Walla, Josh Burke, and Ella McCaffray.

Favorable Forecast and Community Support

Organizers are anticipating excellent surf conditions, with swell expected to arrive for the opening days of the competition. The event is a cornerstone of the East Coast surf scene, supported by the City of Virginia Beach, Coastal Edge, and the Virginia Beach Jaycees, ensuring another memorable chapter in its storied history.

Sources

• Who’s In: WRV Outer Banks Pro Presented by Pacifico, World Surf League.
• Swell Inbound to Start Virginia Beach Pro Presented by Coastal Edge ECSC, World Surf League.
• Who’s In: Virginia Beach Pro Presented by Coastal Edge ECSC QS 2,000, World Surf League.
• Virginia Beach Pro Presented by Coastal Edge ECSC Legacy Event is Back, World Surf League.