SURFING GREAT LEADS PRAISE OF FOUNDERS CUP REVOLUTION
STEPHANIE Gilmore has lauded the artificial wave at the Kelly Slater-designed surf arena in California as Australia finished fourth in the inaugural WSL event.
Captained by Gilmore and boasting a top-quality line-up of Mick Fanning, Tyler Wright, Matt Wilkinson and Joel Parkinson, the Australians failed to qualify for the Founders’ Cup final.
The World Team went on to beat Brazil in the decider to win the title at the five-team event held at the revolutionary facility located 160km inland from the Pacific Ocean.
Gilmore welcomed the concept, particularly as a way to break up the global tour’s calendar.
“It was an incredible event and even though it’s a little disappointing to not be in the final, it was cool to be here and see how it all works,” Gilmore said.
“To see the fans out here and how the team aspect comes into play was really positive.
“This opens the floodgates into a whole new realm of arenas and events in controlled conditions.
“But, as long as there’s a really good balance between this and the ocean, I think the two will complement each other really well.”
The technology at the Surf Ranch has been widely praised by the world’s best surfers, with the consistency of the man-made wave taking the unpredictability of the sport out of play.
“I think it was a huge success,” said 11-time world champion Slater, who was central in designing and building the facility.
“Everybody had a good time, from those who didn’t know what was going on, to the die-hard surf fans. I think it translated well to everyone and there were a lot of smiles to be had.”
Carissa Moore of the US described the experience as “fun”.
“You really just wanted to do well for your team and we would’ve loved to win, but it was such a fun experience competing together,” she said. “To be a part of the first WSL Surf Ranch event and witness the fans here was incredible, and it’s something I’ll never forget.”