Billabong Pro Tahiti: Opening and Day 1 Roundup
The Billabong Pro Tahiti started off strong, with the Opening Ceremony where all of the competitors gathered for some traditional Tahitian dancing and music, accompanied by dancers who helped them to learn the moves!
Owen Wright testing the surf at Teahupo'o. Photo c/o WSL and Kelly Cestari
Amid small-scale but building surf, competition was called off for the first day of the Billabong Pro Tahiti's waiting period. While the waves were small, calling off the competition for the day the competitors were able to get out and test the waters. Seeing Mick Fanning out on the waves for the first time since the shark encounter in mid July was a sight for sore eyes, as well as having some seasoned veterans such as Kelly Slater, Owen Wright and Julian Wilson out on the water as well.
Mick Fanning dips his fins in the waters at Teahupo'o. Photo c/o WSL and Kelly Cestari
Teahupo’o is destined to make or break some of the newbies as well, and World Surf League has mentioned a few of them that are stand-out wildcards. “The pre-event contest, which ran Tuesday, August 11, saw Teahupo'o specialists Taumata Puhetini (PYF) and Bruno Santos (BRA) triumph.”- World Surf League August 13, 2015
We are stoked to see this competition unfurl and we’ll keep you updated as the days proceed!