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Caroline Marks announced via Instagram that she recently tested positive for Coronavirus. As such, she will not be flying to Australia tonight for the upcoming events there. “I am following all the Covid protocols and do expect to be competing when I’m cleared,” she wrote. “I want to wish all the WSL competitors and staff a safe flight.”
Marks’ announcement is yet another COVID-related pockmark on pro surfing. The World Surf League has been forced to overhaul what the tour looks like in the midst of a pandemic, but despite their best efforts, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. After Pipeline, where several WSL employees contracted the virus, the Sunset Open and Santa Cruz Pro were called off. A restart was set for April in Australia, but Bells and Snapper were shuttered under pandemic protocols. In mid-February, the World Surf League announced the inclusion of two new events in Australia to replace them: one in New South Wales at Narrabeen and one in Western Australia at Rottnest Island.
Caroline Marks, a fast-rising star in surfing, was 2018’s rookie of the year and was expected to make big moves this year, especially with Teahupoo on the venue list for the women.
Just a few days ago, in early March, Kelly Slater announced that he was forced to drop out of the Australian leg as well, but he cited injury as a reason. We wish Caroline a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her compete in the very near future.
See more about the Australian leg of the tour on WorldSurfLeague.com.
