Maui to Fiji, Deserts to Durban: The Week in Surf
Whether you're chasing ocean swells or perfect artificial barrels, there's been plenty of stoke to go around this week. From Maui windsurfers conquering the massive reef breaks of Fiji to a brand new wave pool popping up in the California desert, let's dive into the latest action.
Maui Windsurfers Dominate Fiji Surf Pro at Cloudbreak
First up, talk about holding your nerve. Maui windsurfer Bernd Roediger claimed first place at the Fiji Surf Pro at the legendary Cloudbreak reef, and he did it while nursing a strained ACL and after more than a month off the water. That's serious commitment. Meanwhile, fellow Maui rider Morgan Noireaux lit up the competition, scoring a massive 9.5 on a single wave to secure a third-place finish. The conditions were some of the most demanding ever seen in professional windsurfing, with massive swells pounding the reef. As reported by Maui News, Roediger described winning there as 'like a blessing,' and honestly, with rides like that, who could argue?
Surfing the Desert: Wavegarden Opens DSRT Surf in Coachella Valley
Now, if you've ever wanted to surf consistent, perfect waves without worrying about the ocean's mood, California just got a fantastic new option. Wavegarden has officially opened DSRT Surf in the Coachella Valley. This is only the second wave pool in the US run by the Spanish tech giants, and it looks like an absolute machine for happiness. As The Inertia notes, the pool can pump out 1,000 waves per hour, offering over 60 different wave types. They've even got a 'Twister' setting for those looking for a powerful, technical barrel. And the best part? Sessions are starting as low as $60 an hour, making it a seriously accessible option compared to other pools. Desert surfing is officially a thing, and we are here for it.
Jordy Smith Scores a 'Day of Days' at a Durban Secret Spot
Finally, let's talk about one of those magical sessions you only dream of. Jordy Smith, along with Chad Du Toit, James Ribbink, Josh Redman, and Brandon Jackson, scored a supremely hollow day at a semi-secret spot in Durban, South Africa. According to The Inertia, Jordy himself called it the 'day of days.' We are talking about a wave with a lip thicker than a losing fighter's and a spit more powerful than a llama's. It’s not a wave for the average Joe, but for a skilled charger like Jordy, it’s the kind of session that makes surfing feel entirely new. Just pure, raw stoke.
