Bells Beach is a world-famous wave. The place is steeped in history and has played a big role in what surfing looks like today, but it often takes the brunt of many an armchair quarterback’s anger. When it comes to pro surfing contests, anyway, Bells is not exactly a high-performance wave. Which is why style master Harrison Roach paddled out on a 9’4″.
“Bells is an incredible longboard wave,” said Roach. “I watched Wayne Deane surf it it in the 2004 Australian Longboard Titles and remember the long, arching turns he was doing. Mine don’t compare to his.
Roach stayed in the water for the entire day, save for a quick jaunt to the sand for a can of tuna and some water. It was the first time he’d ridden a 2+1 of this style, and he hadn’t surfed Bells since 2004. But by the looks of it, he hasn’t lost any of his skill.
