Stunning Tuesday Feb 7th… The Billabong Pro Pipeline in Memory of Andy Irons

Full story on the way this evening

The surf ended-up pumping 3-5’+ for a large part of the day and performances rose to the occasion.

JJF pulls off one of the best Houdini acts at Backdoor EVER in final heat of the day.

Gabriel Medina taken out by Jack Robinson in heat7.

EARLIER UPDATE

Men’s round of 32 kicked off the day with the former World Champ Italo Ferreira and Maui’s rookie Ian Gentil! 945am update: Ian upsets Italo!

We will do some overlapping heats to get more heats done during swell and get to the Quarters.

Women have the day off.

The NW is super fun at 3-5′ but still inconsistent with light ENE trades filling to fresh paces under cloudy skies. The sandbar is still there for big finishes and added excitement. A new NNW fills Thursday to solid 4-6′ so watch for a couple full straight days of comp! SNN

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

230PM Monday: Women’s Semi’s postponed due to inconsistent slow arrival on new WNW…

Women’s Quarterfinals hit the water at 12:30pm (30 min heats) and finished at just after 230pm.

Monday’s 3-5′ WNW-NW was only 2.5′ at dawn but is now 3′ occ. 4′ at lunch.

The NW buoy is at 1pm… 5-6′ 16 sec. Hanalei is 3′ 18 sec and Waimea only 2.5′ at 18 sec…still building.

These long periods are making for challenging waves as the sets are very inconsistent and heave with a tendency to wall up and jack more.

Trades are decent. But very windy ENE trades all week. In fact, 15-35mph are expected Wed nite through Friday.

The new NW swell should be 4-6′ Tuesday with likely continuation of the event for both Women and Men! SNN

Women’s Semifinalists Decided at the 2023 Billabong Pro Pipeline

Peterson and Wright Take Down Hennessy and Weston-Webb in Quarterfinals
Hawaii’s Moore and Sakura Johnson To Meet in Semifinals
Next Call: Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 7, at 7:45 AM HST

Pictured: Two-time WSL Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) will surf against Lakey Peterson (USA) in Heat 1 of the Semifinals at the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Heff

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Monday, February 6, 2023) – The women’s Semifinalists have been decided at the 2023 Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), at the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu.

Today’s heats saw the women deliver moments of brilliance while navigating challenging conditions. The stage is now set for world-class matchups to complete the Billabong Pro Pipeline.

Tour veteran Lakey Peterson (USA) clinched the first spot in the Semifinals with her heat win over Final 5 competitor Brisa Hennessy (CRC). Peterson started the matchup with a quick Backdoor barrel, finishing the wave with a solid maneuver to earn a 4.33 (out of a possible 10). Hennessy looked to capitalize on her powerful forehand turns but was not able to accrue a score of significance. This will be Peterson’s second consecutive Semifinal finish at Pipeline, as she made the Semis last year but was eliminated by Carissa Moore (HAW). She now hopes to go all the way to the Finals and earn the first event win of the season here at the Billabong Pro Pipeline.

“Obviously, it was really tricky out there,” said Peterson. “Shane [Dorian] was just trying to help me identify the really good ones to go on and also realizing it’s very possible to win a heat with a 1 and a 5, and I ended up just getting a little better than that. Just had to make sure I took enough chances, especially after I got my 4.33 I knew I needed a backup to make Brisa (Hennessy) need a little bit more.”

Two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) also made it through her Quarterfinal match against Final 5 competitor Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA). Wright successfully rode two Backdoor barrels, earning a 5.17 and 6.50. Weston-Webb struggled to find a scoring wave, finishing the heat with only a 0.73 and 0.43. Wright is now set to make her second-consecutive Semifinal appearance at Pipeline.

“It was a pretty straightforward plan, nothing too complicated today and I think it went well,” said Wright. “There were a couple of options, it’s a bit slow, and I knew Tatiana (Weston-Webb) was going to go for the lefts so I thought I’d play to my strengths and go for the rights. I’ve been working really hard this offseason, staying in my process, and I think it’s harder than people think to do that. That’s where my underlying values are at this season and what I’m really trying to do this year, just staying connected and really present in my heats.”

Five-time World Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) will make her third consecutive appearance in the Semifinals here at Pipeline after her win over event stand-out Molly Picklum (AUS). Picklum started things off with a heroic late drop into a Pipeline barrel, but the wave closed out on her. Moore held her ground for the majority of the heat, and her patience paid off. With five minutes left, she found a Backdoor barrel to earn a 4.67 and take the heat win.

“Honestly, I was just under priority, there wasn’t much, it kind of looked clean, and Molly wasn’t looking at it,” said Moore. “I just gave it a shot knowing there was nothing to lose. All the women are surfing so well, and Molly, on the first day, was the in-form surfer of the event, so I knew I had a really challenging matchup. I think it’s just about focusing on what’s right in front of you because you never know what you’re going to get out here.”

Pictured: Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) will meet Carissa Moore (HAW) in Heat 2 of the Semifinals at the Billabong Pro Pipeline . Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

Despite breaking her board, Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) was able to hold onto a clutch Quarterfinal victory against 2022 Rookie of the Year Gabriela Bryan (HAW). Sakura Johnson’s resurgence to the CT is showing she belongs among the world’s best once again. She will now have to take on fellow Hawaiian and five-time WSL Champion Moore in the Semifinals.

“The strategy was to at least get two scorable waves,” said Sakura Johnson. “But that didn’t happen, and we had to make do with what we had out there, and I’m really happy to squeeze by. When I broke my board and got in on the ski, my mom told me to smile and breathe and just hold onto that little positive thread out there, so that’s what I did.”

With the conditions deteriorating, the WSL Tours and Competition team called the event off for the day and will await improved conditions to run the women’s Semifinals and Finals.

“It’s really slow, so we’re going to come back tomorrow and see what we get,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “This afternoon, I’m certain there’s going to be a moment when it looks really good really late this afternoon. We were hoping it would be here by now to where we’d see more consistency and more size, but it’s just not here. It does look good for tomorrow, and we could be finishing by Wednesday if the wind permits.”

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Women’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Lakey Peterson (USA) 6.83 DEF. Brisa Hennessy (CRC) 4.87
HEAT 2: Tyler Wright (AUS) 11.67 DEF. Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) 1.16
HEAT 3: Carissa Moore (HAW) 6.10 DEF. Molly Picklum (AUS) 1.33
HEAT 4: Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) 2.20 DEF. Gabriela Bryan (HAW) 1.77

Billabong Pro Pipeline Women’s Semifinals Matchups:
HEAT 1: Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Tyler Wright (AUS)
HEAT 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Nat Young (USA)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)
HEAT 4: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 6: Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW)
HEAT 7: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 8: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 9: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Carlos Munoz (CRC)
HEAT 10: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA)
HEAT 11: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Rio Waida (INA)
HEAT 12: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 13: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 14: Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA)
HEAT 15: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA)
HEAT 16: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)

EARLIER REPORT

Women’s Quarterfinals Called ON at Billabong Pro Pipeline

Women’s Semifinals and Finals on Standby for Possible Start Later Today
Men’s Event OFF for the Day

Pictured: Five-time WSL Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) will surf against Molly Picklum (AUS) in Heat 3 of the Quarterfinals at the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Monday, February 6, 2023) – The women’s Quarterfinals have been called ON at the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), for a 12:30 p.m. HST start in four-to-six-foot waves at the Banzai Pipeline. Women’s Semifinals and Finals are currently on hold, and could potentially see the Billabong Pro Pipeline winner crowned today. The men’s competition is off for the day.

Quarterfinal 1 will see Costa Rica’s Brisa Hennessy take on California’s Lakey Peterson (USA) for a spot in the Semifinals. Peterson will have momentum coming off her heat win against event wildcard Moana Jones Wong (HAW) in the Round of 16.

Two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) will face Final 5 competitor Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) in Heat 2. Five-time World Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) is hungry for a Billabong Pro Pipeline win after her runner-up finish last year to Jones Wong and in 2021 to Wright. She will surf in Heat 3 against event standout Molly Picklum (AUS).

The Quarterfinals will finish with Hawaiis’ Gabriela Bryan and Bettylou Sakura Johnson hoping to continue their quest for a Billabong Pro Pipeline win here at home. Both are comfortable in this wave of consequence and will have their friends and families cheering for them on the beach.

The WSL Tours and Competition team will make a call on whether to run the women’s Semifinals and Finals during the Quarterfinals in Heat 3. If called on, the women’s Billabong Pro Pipeline winner will be crowned later today.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:
HEAT 1: Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA)
HEAT 2: Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) vs. Tyler Wright (AUS)
HEAT 3: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Molly Picklum (AUS)
HEAT 4: Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW)

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Round of 32 Matchups: OFF FOR MONDAY
HEAT 1: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Nat Young (USA)
HEAT 3: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)
HEAT 4: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS)
HEAT 5: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 6: Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW)
HEAT 7: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 8: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 9: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Carlos Munoz (CRC)
HEAT 10: Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA)
HEAT 11: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Rio Waida (INA)
HEAT 12: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 13: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 14: Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA)
HEAT 15: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA)
HEAT 16: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW

Pictured: The event site welcomes back fans to watch the opening days of the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Friday, February 3, 2023) – Day six of the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF due to small surf and onshore wind. The next call will be tomorrow, Saturday, February 4, at 7:55 a.m. HST.

“We have small waves and onshore wind on offer today,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “We’re going to call a lay day today and check back in tomorrow morning.”

Men’s Round of 16 and Women’s Quarterfinals Up Next Once Competition Resumes

When competition resumes, the men’s Round of 32 will cut the field in half to 16 competitors. Many men’s World Champions managed to stay alive so far, including John John Florence (HAW), Kelly Slater (USA), Gabriel Medina (BRA), and Filipe Toledo (BRA). Also still in the mix and hoping to make their mark on the global stage are 2023 CT rookies Ian Gentil (HAW), Rio Waida (INA), and Maxime Huscenot (FRA).

The women’s Quarterfinalists are set, and they will go head-to-head for a spot in the Semifinals when competition resumes. Quarterfinal, Heat 1 will feature Final 5 competitor Brisa Hennessy (CRC), taking on tour veteran Lakey Peterson (USA). Five-time World Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) is hoping to improve on her runner-up finish here at Pipeline last year. She will have to face an in-form Molly Picklum (AUS) in Quarterfinal, Heat 3.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW
Holding period: Sunday January 29 through February 10.
Wednesday Feb 1st. It’s ON! Coverage Started 8:00 AM. Day 4 of holding period for the 2023 WCT Billabong Pro Pipe …
Wednesday surf update: the super fun new small to moderate 16sec NW is filling with some 4′ even 5′ sets with better rights than lefts so far. There’s some minor ruffle on the water with lite and variables but overall really good conditions. We will likely see onshore sea breezes toward lunch into the afternoon. SNN

2023 WSL Championship Tour Starts Today at the Billabong Pro Pipeline

Men’s Opening Round Started at 8:03 AM HST
Pupo, Young, Gentil in First Heat of the Season
Men’s Elimination Round and Women’s Opening Round on Standby
Carlos Munoz Will Replace Ramzi Boukhiam in the Men’s Draw

Pictured: Former World Champion Italo Ferreira (BRA) will make his season debut in the men’s Opening Round, Heat 5, of the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Heff

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii (Wednesday, February 1, 2023) – The Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), has been called ON for an 8:03 a.m. HST start in four-to-six foot waves at the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline. Men’s Opening Round 1 will kick off the competition. Men’s Elimination Round and women’s Opening Round are currently on standby for a potential start today. A decision on whether or not to continue competition today will be made by the WSL Tours and Competition team during the men’s Opening Round, Heat 10.

“We have a building swell today, this is the beginning of a new NW,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “There’s no wind right now, and we have some really fun waves, especially at Backdoor. We want to see how the wind behaves throughout the day. It’s better for us to have everyone on hold so we can make a decision for the whole contest.”

Gentil, Pupo, Young in First Heat of the Season

The first heat of the 2023 season will see Hawaii’s own Ian Gentil take on current No. 6 on the CT rankings, Miguel Pupo (BRA) and Nat Young (USA).

Last season’s Final 5 competitors, Kanoa Igarashi (JPN), Ethan Ewing (AUS), Jack Robinson (AUS), and Italo Ferreira (BRA), will get their campaigns started in Heats 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively.

Reigning World Champion Filipe Toledo (BRA) will make his debut in Heat 6 up against event wildcard Josh Moniz (HAW) and Australia’s Jackson Baker. World Champions John John Florence (HAW) and Gabriel Medina (BRA) make their return to the jersey alongside Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA) in the Opening Round, Heat 12.

Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) has officially withdrawn from the competition due to an injury he sustained during the off-season. Carlos Munoz (CRI), next in line on the injury replacement list, accepted his spot. Munoz will compete against 11-time World Champion Kelly Slater (USA) and Caio Ibelli (BRA) in Heat 8.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Nat Young (USA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 6: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Joshua Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 7: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 8: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Carlos Munoz (CRI)
HEAT 9: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)
HEAT 10: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Rio Waida (INA)
HEAT 11: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)

Billabong Pro Pipeline Women’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) vs. Caroline Marks (USA) vs. Teresa Bonvalot (POR)
HEAT 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 3: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) vs. Macy Callaghan (AUS) vs. Moana Jones Wong (HAW)
HEAT 4: Brisa Hennessy (CRC) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS)
HEAT 5: Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Gabriela Bryan (HAW) vs. Caitlin Simmers (USA)
HEAT 6: Courtney Conlogue (USA) vs. Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Molly Picklum (AUS)

EARLIER UPDATES

Tuesday was Lay Day Called for Third-consecutive Day of Billabong Pro Pipeline

Next Call: Wednesday, February 1, at 7:45 AM HST
Promising Conditions Forecast for Tomorrow
Select Your Billabong Pro Pipeline Picks Now for WSL CT Fantasy

Pictured: The morning lineup at the Billabong Pro Pipeline, on Tuesday, January 31. WSL Tours and Competition team will await improved conditions and make the next call tomorrow morning. Credit: © WSL / Heff

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii (Tuesday, January 31, 2023) – Day three of the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF due to small surf. The next call will be tomorrow, Wednesday, February 1, at 7:45 a.m. HST for a possible 8:03 a.m. HST start.

“We have cleaner conditions but smaller waves today,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “We have a new swell tomorrow, and we are pretty confident we will have the waves and conditions to start the competition.”

Select Your Billabong Pro Pipeline Picks Now for WSL CT Fantasy

WSL CT Fantasy is open for the Billabong Pro Pipeline and will lock once the men’s Round of 16 and women’s Quarterfinals start. Sign up, create your team, and start playing now.

Players can register now at ctfantasy.worldsurfleague.com and on the free WSL app.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Nat Young (USA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 6: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Joshua Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 7: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 8: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 9: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)
HEAT 10: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Rio Waida (INA)
HEAT 11: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)

Watch LIVE
The Billabong Pro Pipeline holds a competition window through February 10, 2023. Once called ON, the competition will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners. For fans watching in Brazil, coverage of the competition’s Quarterfinals and beyond will continue exclusively on WorldSurfLeague.com and SporTV.The Billabong Pro Pipeline is proudly supported by Billabong, Pacifico, Apple, Yeti, 805 Beer, Red Bull, Shiseido, Craft 1861, Turtle Bay, True Surf, Sambazon, Spectrum, Pura Vida, Surfline, and Surfshark.

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW
MONDAYS UPDATE…Monday Pm update had: Surf was still poor but improving with 5-8′ NW sets at 15-17 sec (+ a solid N) but it’s still messy, choppy side shore w/ crossed up swells.
NE Trades fresh paced. Current NW fades to about 4′ Tuesday with lite easterlies. Next new small/moderate NW is Wednesday.
Light fickle winds for Tuesday-Thursday with a fun moderate 3-5′ NW on Wednesday. Looks more promising for kick off. Official word daily 730am. SNN

Next Call: Tuesday, January 31, 7:45 AM HST

Rising Tides pres. by Pura Vida Hosts First Activation of the Season

Pictured: North Shore rising talent joined CT surfers for the first Rising Tides pres. by Pura Vida activation of the season ahead of the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Heff

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii (Monday, January 30, 2023) – Day two of the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF due to unruly surf and onshore winds. The next call will be tomorrow, Tuesday, January 31, at 7:45 a.m. HST for a possible 8:00 a.m. HST start.

“We went on hold to see if we had a chance,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “The wind is definitely cleaning up, but it’s still pretty jumbled. We’re going to come back tomorrow morning to see if we hopefully have a chance of running.”

Pictured: [From L to R] U’ilani Nakao, Ocean Lipstein, Skai Suitt participate in the first Rising Tides pres by Pura Vida event of the season. Credit: © WSL / Heff

Rising Tides pres. by Pura Vida Hosts First Activation of the Season

On January 28th, WSL Rising Tides pres. by Pura Vida kicked off its 2023 initiatives ahead of the Billabong Pro Pipeline at Turtle Bay. WSL Rising Tides is a cornerstone of the WSL’ values, providing young surfers access to the world’s best surfers and a platform to explore and learn from their heroes about pursuing their dreams in and out of the water.

Some of the North Shore’s rising talents met up with CT stars for a surf session at Turtle Bay. Caroline Marks (USA), Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW), Alyssa Spencer (USA), Gabriela Bryan (HAW), Isabella Nichols (AUS) and Erin Brooks (CAN) shared their insights as professional surfers to the young girls who joined the afternoon session. WSL Rising Tides will host activations at each of the 2023 CT stops, the Malibu Longboard Championship, and the US Open of Surfing.

SUNDAY UPDATE

Competition was Called OFF for Opening Day of Billabong Pro Pipeline

Billabong Welcomes Athletes with Special Opening Ceremony
We Are One Ocean Hosts First Sustainability Initiative of the Year
Next Call: Monday, January 30, 7:30 AM HST

Pictured: Pastor Dennis Sallas leads the Hawaiian protocol and E Ola (blessing that brings life) at the opening ceremony of the Billabong Pro Pipeline. Credit: © WSL / Heff

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Sunday, January 29, 2022) – The opening day of the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT), has been called OFF for the day due to stormy conditions at the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline. The next call will be tomorrow, Monday January 30, at 7:30 a.m. HST for a possible 8:00 a.m. HST start.

“It’s super windy down here today so we’re going to come back tomorrow, but today is a lay day,” said WSL Chief of Sport, Jessi Miley-Dyer. “What I think is really important is this wind. There’s definitely a good chance it’s going to swing around tomorrow afternoon or the next day. So we know we’ve got some good conditions we’re gonna keep our eye on.”

Pictured: [From L to R] Kelia Moniz, Tiara Bella, and Nanea Alden perform a Hula Dance at the opening ceremony of the Billabong Pro Pipeline on January 28, 2023 on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Credit: © WSL / Heff

Billabong Welcomes Athletes with Special Opening Ceremony

On Saturday, January 28th, a special Opening Ceremony was held at the competition site to bless the surfers and celebrate the start of the Billabong Pro Pipeline in Memory of Andy Irons and the start of the 2023 CT. The athletes were welcomed and blessed by Pastor Dennis Sallas, who led the Hawaiian protocol and E Ola (blessing that brings life), alongside the Moniz Family, the Irons Family, the DeSoto Family, and the Chandler Family. Each athlete was given a Ti Leaf, which they released into the water. The ceremony concluded with a Hula Dance performed by Hawaiians Kelia Moniz, Tiara Bella, and Nanea Alden.

Competitors Await First Run Day at Billabong Pro Pipeline

When competition commences, the men’s opening heat of the 2023 season will see Hawaii’s own Ian Gentil take on current No. 6 on the rankings, Miguel Pupo (BRA), and California’s Nat Young. Pupo made his barrel-riding skills known last year, winning the Outerknown Tahiti Pro, and is sure to be a threat in this event.

Reigning World Champion Filipe Toledo (BRA) will make his debut in Heat 6 up against event wildcard Josh Moniz (HAW) and Australia’s Jackson Baker.

An all-star showdown will finish out the Opening Round as World Champions John John Florence (HAW), and Gabriel Medina (BRA) make their return to the jersey alongside Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA).

The women’s first heat of the season will see World-Title threat Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) get her campaign started as she faces season wildcard and tour veteran Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) and Caroline Marks (USA). Heat 2 will feature two Hawaiians, five-time World Champion Carissa Moore and newcomer Bettylou Sakura Johnson, along with California’s Alyssa Spencer. Reigning event winner Moana Jones Wong (HAW) is eager to uphold her title, but she will have to face none other than the reigning World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) in Heat 3.

We Are One Ocean Hosts First Sustainability Initiative of the Year

On Friday January 27th, We Are One Ocean (WAOO) and North Shore Community Land Trust (NSCLT) hosted a native habitat restoration activation to restore the rich ecosystems and agricultural abundance of Waiale’e Lako Pono. Athletes and partners engaged in restoring a traditional loʻi kalo (wetland taro patch) by removing invasive weeds and planting taro.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Nat Young (USA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 6: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Joshua Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 7: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 8: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 9: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)
HEAT 10: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Rio Waida (IDN)
HEAT 11: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW
Wildcards and Injury Replacements, Moana Jones Wong, Teresa Bonvalot, Josh Moniz, Imaikalani deVault, and Alyssa Spencer, Ready To Mix up the Draw
World Champions Hope To Make History Once Again
Billabong and Na Kama Kai Host Surfboard Drive Ahead of Competition Start
Select Your Billabong Pro Pipeline Picks Now for WSL CT Fantasy

Billabong Pro Pipeline Window Opens Holding Period

Athletes Eagerly Await Start of the 2023 CT Season
World Champions Recognized at WSL Awards
Duke Kahanamoku Champions’ Trophy Announced
World Title and Olympic Qualification On the Line

Pictured: Two-time World Champion and former event winner John John Florence (HAW) returns to the Billabong Pro Pipeline, January 29 – February 10, 2023. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Saturday, January 28, 2023) – The waiting period for the Billabong Pro Pipeline, the first stop on the World Surf League (WSL) 2022 Championship Tour (CT), officially opens tomorrow at the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline. With plenty of swell forecasted throughout the waiting period, the only thing needed to turn Pipeline on is calm or light East wind. The Billabong Pro Pipeline holds a two-week competition window through February 10, 2023.

Pictured: Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR) will make his debut at the Billabong Pro Pipeline as the first surfer to represent Morocco on the CT. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

Athletes Eagerly Await Start of the Season

The world’s best surfers have arrived on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, eager to start the first event of the season. This year’s rookie class is ready to prove themselves on the global stage alongside past and present World Champions.

“I’m super proud to be representing my country and taking the Moroccan flag as high as I can,” said 2023 rookie, Ramzi Boukhiam. “If there’s one word I could say, it’s proud, really proud. I’ve trained a lot. I have this little injury, but I’m staying positive. My doctor came from France to work on it. I’m going to push through it, and I’m super excited.”

“I’m very excited, I definitely know what to do now this year from learning from last year,” said 17-year-old Bettylou Sakura Johnson, who returns to the CT. “I’m happy to get the ball rolling and excited for the competition to start.”

“I’ve been trying to win an event for the past four years, and that’s still my goal, even on the CT,” said 2023 rookie, Ian Gentil. “I think I’m going on the CT at the perfect time. Even if I had qualified sooner, I wouldn’t have been ready yet.”

“Every surfer has contributed to the evolution of and progression of our sport today, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of our sport, especially on the women’s side,” said five-time World Champion Carissa Moore. “It’s a true honor to surf alongside the women, and I’m looking forward to another fun year.”

Pictured: Newly-crowned 2022 World Champions Filipe Toledo (BRA) and Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) accept their World Title trophies. Credit: © WSL / Heff

World Champions Recognized at WSL Awards

Earlier this week, the WSL recognized surfing’s World Champions at the WSL Awards. Newly-crowned World Champions Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) and Filipe Toledo (BRA) celebrated and reflected on their 2022 World Titles at the banquet held on the North Shore alongside the new CT class.

“To win again and be able to celebrate here in Hawaii for the start of the season is really special,” said eight-time WSL Champion Gilmore. “You get to reflect on everything and try and let go of it all before you start again. I’m excited, the pressure is off now I can just enjoy everything I do on tour. Everything from here on out is a bonus.”

“It’s been a long journey for me, nine years working hard to get this trophy,” said Toledo. “I started the year focused on trying to have fun. To have my name alongside all the world champions it’s such a blessing, and I’m really happy. Everyone has ups and downs, and I’ve been through some really tough times. To get over that and be here tonight and go after this trophy, I’m so happy.”

Duke Kahanamoku Champions’ Trophy Announced

During the awards ceremony it was announced that the WSL Championship Tour World Title Trophy will now be known as the Duke Kahanamoku WSL Champions’ Trophy. Naming the trophy in honor of the universally recognized forefather of modern surfing furthers the WSL’s dedication to recognizing surfing’s rich heritage while also promoting progression, innovation, and performance at the highest levels. This title naming is in partnership with the Kahanamoku family and Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation.

Pictured: Filipe Toledo (BRA) and Brisa Hennessy (CRI), recipients of the inaugural WSL Impact Award. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

The inaugural WSL Impact Award was also announced during the ceremony. The WSL Impact Award recognizes the individual surfers who demonstrate the greatest impact and outstanding effort to inspire, educate, and empower our global surf community to protect our ocean and preserve the future of our sport. The inaugural WSL Impact Award was given to Brisa Hennessy (CRI) and Toledo.

Hennessy joined native plantings at Bells Beach and Coral Restoration efforts in Tahiti. She also supported surf conservation initiatives in Costa Rica youth development efforts through Rising Tides, and engaged with indigenous communities during opening ceremonies, and was invited to join the United Nations (UN) Humanitarian AID Organization, UNICEF, as an ambassador.

Toledo supported restoration initiatives in G-Land, engaged with WSL PURE Grantees SOS Mata Atlantica in Brazil, and spoke out about climate change with the United Nations aligned to COP27 in Egypt. In addition, Toledo announced one of the first ten United Nations World Restoration Flagships in partnership with the UN Environment Program alongside a celebrity panel, including Jason Momoa and Ellie Goulding.

With a World Title, the first ever Duke Kahanamoku Champions’ Trophy, and Olympic qualification on the line, the stakes are higher than ever. The Billabong Pro Pipeline is the first opportunity to earn CT rankings points, which will determine who will be crowned the 2023 World Champions and who will qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 2023 CT is the primary pathway for Olympic qualification for the world’s best surfers. Of the 48 athletes competing in the games, the first 18 (10 men and 8 women) will qualify via the 2023 WSL CT final rankings.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Nat Young (USA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 6: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Joshua Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 7: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 8: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 9: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)
HEAT 10: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Rio Waida (IDN)
HEAT 11: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)

Front page: Five-time World Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) returns to the Billabong Pro Pipeline, January 29 – February 10, 2023. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

PRIOR UPDATE BELOW

BANZAI PIPELINE, Oahu, Hawaii, USA (Tuesday, January 24, 2023) – The World Surf League (WSL) 2023 Championship Tour (CT) season is less than one week from launching at the Billabong Pro Pipeline.

The Billabong Pro Pipeline holds a competition window from January 29 through February 10, 2023. As one of the most prestigious events on tour, a win here cements one into surfing history. A solid finish here gives surfers momentum going into the season and confidence at all other waves of consequence on tour.

World Champions Hope To Make History Once Again

Some of the greatest names in surfing are ready to return to competition and bolster their already impressive careers. Two-time World Champion Tyler Wright (AUS) made history in 2020 as the first woman to win a CT event at Pipeline after the remainder of the competition was moved from Maui. Wright came close to winning the event again in 2022, finishing in third place. Wright could become the first woman to win twice at Pipeline, and she will kick off her campaign in Heat 6 against Courtney Conlogue (USA) and Molly Picklum (AUS).

Eight-time Billabong Pro Pipeline victor and 11-time WSL Champion, Kelly Slater (USA), returns to defend his 2022 event win. Three-time WSL Champion Gabriel Medina (BRA) and two-time WSL Champion John John Florence (HAW) will make their highly anticipated returns to the jersey.

The reigning 2022 WSL Champions, Filipe Toledo (BRA) and Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), start their campaigns to retain their World Titles. Gilmore is now chasing a historic ninth World Title, jumpstarting her campaign at Pipe. Five-time WSL Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) has been the runner-up twice here at Pipeline and returns this year eager to add an event win to her name.

Wildcards and Injury Replacements, Moana Jones Wong, Teresa Bonvalot, Josh Moniz, Imaikalani deVault, and Alyssa Spencer, Ready To Mix up the Draw

In a truly historic moment, wildcard Moana Jones Wong won the 2022 Billabong Pro Pipeline. It was the first time a full-length women’s Championship Tour event took place at surfing’s ultimate proving ground. She overcame five-time World Champion Moore in the Final, earning the title “Queen of Pipe.” Jones Wong returns this year eager to defend her title, but she will have to face none other than the reigning, eight-time World Champion Gilmore in her first Heat of the event.

Teresa Bonvalot (PRT) missed qualification for the CT by the narrowest of margins, finishing No. 6 in the Challenger Series rankings. She will now get a shot to prove she belongs alongside the best in the world in her debut at Pipeline as an injury replacement for Johanne Defay (FRA).

Josh Moniz (HAW) gave an impressive performance at Pipeline to win the 2021 trials, earning him a spot to compete at this year’s Billabong Pipeline Pro. Now, the former Volcom Pipe Pro victor will get another shot at mixing up the draw to begin the 2023 Championship Tour season. He will be joined by fellow Hawaiian Imaikalani deVault, who earned his wildcard spot in the 2023 Billabong Pro Pipeline by being the highest-ranked Hawaiian surfer on the Challenger Series.

Sophie McCulloch (AUS) has withdrawn from competition due to an injury she sustained while training at Snapper Rocks. Alyssa Spencer (USA), who is next in line on the Women’s Challenger Series rankings, will replace McCulloch in the draw.

Pictured: World Champion Italo Ferreira (BRA) is hungry for an event win and another World Title in 2023. Credit: © WSL / Bielmann

Billabong and Na Kama Kai Host Surfboard Drive Ahead of Competition Start

Billabong is working with non-profit, Na Kama Kai, to organize a board drive which will benefit the youth of the Westside Oahu community. There will be drop-off destinations as well as a pick-up service for donations of boards in any condition and size on the North Shore. Boards and a two-week supply of food will be given to approximately 200 families on the Westside during the Billabong Pro Pipeline window following the board drive. To learn more about how to participate, please visit nakamakai.org.

Select Your Billabong Pro Pipeline Picks Now for WSL CT Fantasy

WSL CT Fantasy is open for the Billabong Pro Pipeline and will lock once the men’s Round of 16 and women’s Quarterfinals start. Sign up, create your team, and start playing now.

Players can register now at ctfantasy.worldsurfleague.com and on the free WSL app.

Billabong Pro Pipeline Men’s Opening Round Matchups:
HEAT 1: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Nat Young (USA) vs. Ian Gentil (HAW)
HEAT 2: Kanoa Igarashi (JPN) vs. Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 3: Ethan Ewing (AUS) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA) vs. Liam O’Brien (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jack Robinson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Ezekiel Lau (HAW)
HEAT 5: Italo Ferreira (BRA) vs. Seth Moniz (HAW) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW)
HEAT 6: Filipe Toledo (BRA) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Joshua Moniz (HAW)
HEAT 7: Griffin Colapinto (USA) vs. Barron Mamiya (HAW) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA)
HEAT 8: Caio Ibelli (BRA) vs. Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
HEAT 9: Connor O’Leary (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith (RSA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA)
HEAT 10: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Matthew McGillivray (RSA) vs. Rio Waida (IDN)
HEAT 11: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Yago Dora (BRA) vs. Ryan Callinan (AUS)
HEAT 12: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Gabriel Medina (BRA) vs. Leonardo Fioravanti (ITA)

Watch LIVE
The Billabong Pro Pipeline will open on January 29 and holds a competition window through February 10, 2023. Once called ON, the competition will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Also, check local listings for coverage from the WSL’s broadcast partners. For fans watching in Brazil, coverage of the competition’s Quarterfinals and beyond will continue exclusively on WorldSurfLeague.com and SporTV.The Billabong Pro Pipeline is proudly supported by Billabong, Pacifico, Apple, Yeti, 805 Beer, Red Bull, Shiseido, Craft 1861, Turtle Bay, True Surf, Sambazon, Spectrum, Pura Vida, Surfline, and Surf Shark.For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.