Vans US Open of Surfing. Photo: WSL
Of all the cancellations endured through much of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Open of Surfing was an obvious no-go as soon as the phrase “social distancing” became familiar. At times the Huntington Beach event has been a highlight on the World Tour and it’s even held one of surfing’s heaviest prize purses for a single event. But surf fans most often associate the surf contest/action sports festival with its really large crowds.
In 2018 it drew an estimated 375,000 attendees and generated $55.3 million of direct spending in Huntington Beach, according to a Visit Huntington Beach study conducted by Destination Analysis. In June of last year, event organizers canceled the US Open in consideration of COVID-related restrictions and health guidelines, and it wasn’t until Wednesday that a 2021 revival was made official.
On Wednesday, the WSL announced the 2021 US Open of Surfing will kick off its upcoming Challenger Series, a four-stop tour that will allow some CT athletes to re-qualify for the Tour while boosting select QS athletes in their bid toward CT qualification.
“We’re very excited to bring the Challenger Series to life in 2021,” said WSL CEO, Erik Logan. “These four events will not only provide an enhanced showcase for the up and coming surfers but will also allow those who fail to re-qualify through the CT the opportunity to perform well and re-qualify for the 2022 Championship Tour.”
The US Open will take place September 20-26, followed by the MEO Pro Ericeira in Portugal, October 2 – 10. The Series will immediately go to France for the Quiksilver/ROXY Pro from October 16-24, and then wrap up in Hawaii with the Haleiwa Challenger from November 25-December 7.
In all, the Challenger Series will be comprised of 96 men and 64 women. That roster includes 34 men and 17 women from the Championship Tour, 58 men and 44 women that are allocated by the league’s regions, two men’s and women’s World Junior wild cards, and two men’s and one women’s wild cards.
“This new level of competition will provide greater opportunity for CT qualification as well as give visibility to the next generation of surfers,” said Jessi Miley-Dyer, SVP of Tours and Head of Competition. “I can’t wait to see who will qualify for the tour in 2022.”
