Local surfers chase Rip Curl Pro dream at Bells

A SHOT at the world stage is on the line for the Surf Coast and Bellarine’s top surfers this weekend at Bells Beach.

A strong local field will contest the Rip Curl Pro Trials tomorrow (Saturday 28 March), with the winners of the men’s and women’s divisions earning a place in the main draw of the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.

 

Former trial winners Xavier Huxtable, Tully Wylie, Ellie Harrison and Carly Shanahan headline the field and will be chasing another breakthrough moment on home waves.

Huxtable made the most of his opportunity last year, going on to knock out world number one Italo Ferreira in the main event – a reminder of the impact local wildcards can have at Bells.

Big wave chargers Bella Wilson and Angela Ball will be pushing for a first women’s trials win, while Jan Juc Boardriders champion Kai Nudd is one to watch.

“I’m so grateful to have a spot in the trials and to put my surfing up against Victoria’s best, and then potentially the world’s best,” Nudd said.

 

“To qualify would be out of this world – I don’t even know how I’d react. I’m keen to put my best foot forward and have a crack.”

The competition will begin at 7.30am at either Bells Beach or Winki Pop, depending on conditions.

For more information, head to liveheats.com/surfingvictoria