Big waves, big thrills as comp revamped

THE World Surf League (WSL) recently announced that it would be revamping its Big Wave platform to try and raise the profile of big wave surfing.

Its changes will see year-round content, with new Strike Mission series and redesigned events.

These changes are helped by the launch of WSL studios earlier in the year, enabling them to provide more comprehensive coverage of their Big Wave events.

Reigning Big Wave World Champion Keala Kennelly said she was encouraged by the WSL’s change in direction.

“The new approach is going to reflect the reality and adaptability of big wave surfing where these incredible feats happen at any time, and with WSL, I want to be able to share these epic moments with the world.”

The WSL are looking to be more proactive, getting to places where the biggest waves are breaking quickly, and ensuring the content is then delivered to the fans in a similarly fast manner.

In addition to these less predictable events, the WSL is also aiming to have four key areas to their Big Wave platform: the Strike Missions series, the Jaws Big Wave World Championships at Pe’ahi, the Nazaré Tow Challenge, and the Big Wave Awards.

The Big Wave Awards are continuing to work with the Guinness World Records, meaning all entries to the Big Wave Awards have the potential to break the current world records.