2017 was a big year for the development of surfing in the Philippines, but the four-month, four-leg tour certainly did a lot more than inspire.
The Philippine Surfing Championship Tour (PSCT) launched in September and by December, a champion had been crowned. Events were held over one reef break, two point breaks, and a single beach break, with the PSCT putting together its own media crew and adhering to ISA rules for judging and conduct. Unlike the WSL’s circuit, PSCT had three added divisions for grommets and men’s and women’s open longboard. All this to grow the sport of surfing in a place not known for it. It was the professional stamp Philippine surfing so badly needed.
So, what are the subtle and not so subtle impacts of the tour? For years, much like the geographic disconnection of the islands and our clannish inclination, the national comps have been separate and independent. As a result, surfers would compete regionally in hopes of recovering their travel expenses with winnings. The new circuit, however, sparked a new sense of commitment to all its competitors. More traveling brings an expanded view of the world and better surf skills. But on a larger scale, it unified the surfing community by establishing new friendships and bonds of camaraderie. A surfer from La Union at the Northern side of the country will now always have a home in Siargao, the Southern mecca of surfing. Filipinos have a strong sense of family, and ours just got bigger.
The tour also offered a spike in the learning curve for everyone. Organizers already see how they can make it even better in 2018. The athletes know what’s required to be in the mix and what’s required financially to sustain their competitive careers. This will rewrite the sponsor-athlete handbook here, as companies will learn that athletes need more than product handouts if they want their brands promoted properly.
So, what should we expect for 2018? President of PSCT and Billabong International ambassador Luke Landrigan said, “Everybody has been asking this. For us, for sure, we’d want to have as many comps around our beautiful island but it will all depend on sponsors and the local government in that area. We have been in talks with three to five additional spots already. I guess we’ll surprise you all.” He later added “I wouldn’t be surprised if I see a Pinoy in the WSL CT in twenty year’s time. I may be dreaming, but hey, everything is possible.”
