Turpel’s top tips for the Pro

AN “under the radar” Aussie and a powerful Hawaiian are World Surf League commentating maestro Joe Turpel’s top tips for the 2025 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.

Turpel, who made his live broadcast debut in 2007, says Ethan Ewing is a strong candidate to take home his second bell in the men’s field and Gabriela Bryan is right in the frame on the women’s side of the draw.

Ewing took home his first Championship Tour victory at Bells Beach in 2023, following in the footsteps of his mother Helen Lambert.

Turpel said Ewing’s precision on bigger waves and effortless style was a must-see at Bells Beach.

“Even though we’ve got this runaway season in the making for Italo Ferreira, I’m really continuing to go back to the Ethan Ewing story at Bells Beach.

“I think he’s got the most beautiful lines and smoothest rail work on tour.

I want to see a solid finals day on the bowl where Ethan can get that second bell in those classy conditions.

“He’s just sneaking under the radar. He’s number three in the world. Ethan really is right there behind Italo.”

Turpel said he is loving watching the rivalry between Caitlin Simmers and Molly Picklum in the women’s field.

 

He believes both will push hard for a result at Bells Beach, but says Bryan is also quietly going about her business.

He said Bryan, presently second in the world rankings, could use her power to ring the bell this year.

“I think Gabriela has the best frontside hack on the tour right now. I think she can really flex that at Bells Beach.”

“Everyone will be looking at Caity, Molly, Caroline Marks and two-time winner Tyler Wright, but Gabby Bryan will really blow some doors on people at that wave.

“I think she doesn’t mind sneaking under the radar a little bit.”

 

Turpel said surfers had to approach Bells Beach in a different way to many other waves on tour.

“Separate to some of the real high-performance waves on tour, it Bells Beach doesn’t feel like you can force the issue. You’ve got to let the waves and the wall at Bells really lead.

“It brings back that backbone of surfing. It’s a cathedral. You walk down and can’t help but think of all the greats. You feel it. I think that’s the best part of the event.”

The waiting period for the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach begins today (Friday, April 18).