The World Surf League (WSL) Europe Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) Stop No. 5, the Junior Pro Taghazout Bay, is underway in Morocco. This crucial event marks the season finale, where Europe’s best junior surfers are competing for vital points to determine the WSL Europe Junior Champions and secure spots in the WSL World Junior Championships.
Key Takeaways
- The competition is the final stop of the 2025 WSL Europe Junior Tour.
- Top seeds like Alfonso Suarez and Carla Morera De La Vall are vying for the regional titles.
- Pumping four-to-six foot surf graced the competition on Day 2 at Anza.
- Several Moroccan surfers are participating, including wildcards.
High-Stakes Competition Begins
The Junior Pro Taghazout Bay commenced with promising two-to-three foot surf at Anza Beach. This event is critical as it’s the last chance for juniors to earn points, making for a deeply competitive field. The stakes are high, with regional champions and qualifiers for the World Junior Championships on the line.
Day 2 Delivers Pumping Conditions
Day 2 of the Junior Pro Taghazout Bay saw the surf significantly improve, with four-to-six foot waves and light winds at Anza. This provided an excellent platform for the competitors. The day’s action included the conclusion of the women’s Round of 48, the men’s Round of 96, and several heats of the men’s Round of 64. The competition is scheduled to continue with the next call on Friday, November 7, at 7:30 a.m. GMT+1.
Standout Performances Emerge
Several surfers have already made their mark. Spain’s Conor Donegan Dos Santos, currently ranked fourth, launched his campaign with an impressive heat total of 15.27. Rivan Rosskopf showcased resilience by coming from behind to win his heat. Portugal’s João Mendonça, ranked fifth, also advanced, demonstrating his potential to cause upsets. Other notable heat winners in the men’s Round of 96 included Alberto Barzan, Mateo Vazquez, and Bruno Amado.
On the women’s side, Sarah Leiceaga displayed strong competitive experience, advancing to the next round. Teresa Pereira also delivered a commanding performance, and Zoé Jaeckin won her heat. Chiara Cuppone and Constância Simões secured their progression in the final heat of the day.
Leading the Pack
Heading into the final stop, Spain’s Alfonso Suarez and Carla Morera De La Vall are leading the rankings and are in strong positions to claim the regional titles. De La Vall has secured two wins this season, while Portugal’s Maria Salgado also boasts two victories and poses a significant challenge for the title.
Challenger Series contender Kai Odriozola is the top seed in the men’s draw, bringing a high level of competition. The event also features seven Moroccan surfers, including wildcards Ayman Gougali, Soulaimane Khafi, Ranya Squalli, and Maria Elouedrhiri, adding local excitement to the proceedings.
Sources
- Anza Pumps For Day 2 At Junior Pro Taghazout Bay, World Surf League.
- Europe’s Junior Tour Season Finale Kicks Off at Junior Pro Taghazout Bay, World Surf League.
- Europe’s Best Juniors Prepared for High-Stakes Week at Junior Pro Taghazout Bay, World Surf League.
