New Swell Elevates Performances to Determine Quarterfinalists at WRV Outer Banks Pro

Outer Banks, North Carolina — The waves at the WRV Outer Banks Pro presented by Pacifico came alive on August 30, 2024, providing an exciting backdrop for both men’s and women’s competitors in the World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) event. The new swell, offering consistent two-to-four foot conditions, saw surfers elevate their performances, leading to a dramatic day filled with standout heats and remarkable scores.

Men’s Round of 64 Shines

As the men’s Round of 64 unfolded, the competition heated up with numerous top seeds making their highly-anticipated appearances. One notable moment came when Caleb Crozier of the USA made waves by defeating former event champ Taro Watanabe, posting an impressive near-perfect score of 9.50. Crozier’s combination of maneuverability and airtime showcased his skills and reflected a significant comeback after a four-year hiatus from competitive surfing.

Crozier Shares His Thoughts

“I didn’t think it was a 9.50 but I was stoked on it,” Crozier commented. “It’s been weird not doing competitions for four years, but it felt great to come back in such exciting conditions. I’m just stoked to be fighting back.”

Another competitor making a splash was Jake Davis, who not only regained his form but also secured an 8.50 to earn a total heat score of 14.45, advancing alongside fellow competitor Kei Kobayashi.

Highlights from the Women’s Round of 32

The women’s Round of 32 witnessed exhilarating performances, especially from Lanea Mons who made her mark with the first excellent score of 8.00. Her total heat score of 15.00 set her on a path towards consecutive Finals appearances at this event. “I’m super happy,” Mons expressed. “The Outer Banks has a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled I could start strong.”

Vela Mattive also shone by achieving a solid heat total of 13.50, demonstrating impressive skill and confidence throughout her heats, aiming for a significant finish after just missing the Finals recently in Virginia Beach.

Quarterfinal Pairings Set

As the day concluded, the Quarterfinal matchups were set, featuring formidable pairings including:

Women’s Quarterfinal Matchups:

• Heat 1: Sanoa Dempfle-Olin vs. Taylor Stacy vs. Eden Walla vs. Ayla Stutzman
• Heat 2: Zoey Kaina vs. Faviola Alcala vs. Zoe Chait vs. Alana Lopez
• Heat 3: Avery McDonald vs. Mia Moore vs. Kylie Pulcini vs. Ellie Barimo
• Heat 4: Vela Mattive vs. Kaydn Persidok vs. Lanea Mons vs. Daya McCart

Men’s Quarterfinal Matchups:

• Heat 1: Jake Davis vs. Tyler Gunter vs. Carl Burger vs. Luke Guinaldo
• Heat 2: Lucas Owston vs. Kei Kobayashi vs. Reed Platenius vs. Caleb Crozier
• Heat 3: Wheeler Hasburgh vs. Kai Barton vs. Matton Bain vs. Taj Lindblad
• Heat 4: Cannon Carr vs. Kai Kushner vs. Greyson Grant vs. Owen Moss

What’s Next?

With excitement in the air, event organizers plan to reconvene at 8:30 a.m. EDT for a potential 9:00 a.m. start for the Quarterfinal heats. The thrilling competition will continue to be available for fans to follow live online.

As the competitors gear up for the next stage, the energy at the WRV Outer Banks Pro remains palpable—who will take the crown? Only time will tell.