Phillip island Pro returning this year

FOLLOWING a successful 2017 event, the Phillip Island Pro will be returning in 2018 for the second running of the annual competition that brings over 120 professional surfers to the wave-rich region.

The QS1000-ranked World Surf League event saw 120 surfers compete in the event last year in incredible conditions that showcased the variety of surf on Phillip Island.

The event will be held from November 2-6 at the primary location of Cape Woolamai with the option of moving to other areas of Phillip Island if necessary.

The event will include an Indigenous Invitational along with a Junior Challenge that will run throughout the waiting period.

“The inaugural Phillip Island Pro was a massive success,” Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson said.

“To have over 120 competitors involved with 80 per cent of them coming from interstate was a massive boost to the local economy.

“We had an incredible day of waves at Cape Woolamai followed up by two days of great waves at the Penguin Parade. It really showcased how diverse and consistent the surf is in the area.

“We are stoked to have the support of the Bass Coast Shire Council, Phillip Island Nature Parks and Westernport Water to make sure this event happens every year.”

The event will continue its commitment to gender equality with equal prize money pool for both Men and Women, $10,000 for each division. Bass Coast Shire mayor Pamela Rothfield said the commitment to equal prize money was integral to the council’s commitment towards gender equality in sport.

“I am immensely proud that this event is returning to our beautiful Island where we will showcase not only our fantastic surfing beaches, but importantly our pledge towards gender equality in sport.

“There is no better way to set the standard and provide a positive and encouraging pathway for our young female surfers, than by providing equal opportunities and encouraging equal participation.

“I sincerely hope that more tournaments will follow our lead to even the playing field.” The World Surf League’s Will Hayden-Smith is looking forward to heading back to Phillip Island in 2018.

“The first event last year was a huge success, we had great waves and super exciting finishes,” he said.

“WSL are looking forward to going back to Phillip Island and are really grateful to the Bass Coast Shire and Surfing Victoria for the support and passion for our sport.”

The Phillip Island Pro will be held from November 2-6.

The Phillip Island Pro is presented by Bass Coast Shire Council and supported by Phillip Island Nature Parks, Westernport Water, Coastalwatch, Surfing World Magazine, World Surf League, Air Asia and Surfing Victoria.