Tuesday results: Multiple Athletes Celebrate Championship Tour Qualification at the Corona Saquarema Pro

Presented by Banco do Brasil

Women’s Quarterfinalists Determined at Praia de Itaúna
Competition Called OFF for Wednesday, October 18

Pictured: Alyssa Spencer (USA) qualified for the 2024 Championship Tour today at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Diz

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Tuesday, October 17, 2023) – The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, the sixth and final stop on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series, continued today with women’s Round of 16. Throughout the day, a slew of athletes guaranteed their 2024 Championship Tour (CT) qualification via the 2023 Challenger Series rankings. For the women, India Robinson (AUS), Sawyer Lindblad (USA) and Alyssa Spencer (USA) all confirmed qualification today. For the men, Eli Hanneman (HAW), Imaikalani deVault (HAW) and Jake Marshall (USA) all guaranteed spots on the 2023 Championship Tour.

Pictured: India Robinson (AUS) qualified for the 2024 Championship Tour today at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Diz

India Robinson (AUS) was able to move into first place on the 2023 Challenger Series rankings, overtaking Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), after advancing into the Quarterfinals over Sarah Baum (RSA).

“It feels great to be back on Tour, I’m the number one seed at the moment and I just want to maintain that, keep surfing well and go back home to Bells to compete my best there,” said Robinson. “My trip here to Brazil has been amazing, it’s been such a special moment, and to share it with my best friends and Mom has been the best part, so I’m just lapping it up, soaking up all the energy and hopefully I’ll keep it up till Finals Day.”

Sawyer Lindblad (USA) will be making her inaugural year on Tour in 2024. The surfer from San Clemente cemented her qualification and will join the list of Californians that will populate the list of elite athletes on the CT.

“It feels incredible, I’ve been working towards this for my whole life. To qualify at eighteen has always been a goal of mine and I’m just really happy that I achieved that,” said Lindblad. “The crew from my hometown has definitely helped me to surf my hardest and some of us have already qualified for next year, so I’m so excited for next year. It’s been a long season so I definitely look forward to spending some time at home with my family.”

Alyssa Spencer (USA) has had prior success in Brazil, earning her first victory on the Challenger Series at the 2022 Corona Saquarema Pro. Narrowly missing out on qualification last year, Spencer has finally stamped her ticket to the Tour for 2024.

“Oh my gosh, it feels amazing. There’s been a lot of ups and downs these last couple of years. I’ve been so close, like within one or two spots these past three years, so that’s been the hardest thing to overcome,” said Spencer. “Every year people ask, ‘is this going to be the year?’ and I was just tired of hearing it, so it’s such a relief to finally make it happen. I think I really have a special connection with Saquarema. I don’t know if it’s the waves, the people or the energy here. Last year was my first Challenger Series win here and this is the first time I qualified for the Tour, so it’s a pretty special place for me.”

Men’s 2024 Championship Tour Qualifiers

Pictured front page and above: Eli Hanneman (HAW) was able to qualify for the 2024 CT at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Diz

Eli Hanneman (HAW) has been through a difficult time in the past few years. Physical injuries, near death experiences and the Maui wildfires have all affected him mentally and emotionally. Today however, his positivity tipped the scales as his 2024 CT qualification was announced.

“This is crazy, it feels like my whole life has been leading up to this point. It’s crazy that God’s chosen me to be in this position I’m in. It’s unbelievable, I’m still trying to take it in,” said Hanneman. “I think as you start to get older, your expectations start to get stronger and higher, even for myself too, but I did it. The hard work just starts now, that’s the crazy part. But I’m definitely looking forward to Pipe!”

Imaikalani deVault (HAW) has returned to the Championship Tour after his inaugural year in 2022. The Hawaiian from Maui was given the news this afternoon that he will once again be part of the CT in 2024, alongside his friend Hanneman.

“It definitely feels like a weight has been taken off my shoulders. I knew coming into this event I wasn’t safe at all and I needed to get another result,” said deVault. “It was actually really enjoyable to compete with that kind of pressure and do well. So I’m just super happy to get another chance to be back on Tour. It’s been a really special trip here. I love the vibe, the fans, the passion and the waves, I just love it.”

Jake Marshall (USA) is another Californian that was able to guarantee his spot on the 2024 Championship Tour. Marshall is returning to the CT after not making the mid-season cut in 2023, but has high hopes for a positive impact at the elite level next year alongside his friends.

“It feels great to qualify in Brazil, I mean, I’d take it anywhere, but having it take place here has been awesome,” said Marshall. “I didn’t have the best event here, so just to make it through, it makes it super special. The vibe here has been insane, it’s been a super fun trip so far, and just getting to see a bunch of my fellow Americans make it on Tour has been extra special and cool. It feels great and I’m super excited.”

Pictured: Erin Brooks (CAN) at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

Women’s Quarterfinalists Determined

Moderate winds and waves in the three-foot range were on hand at Praia de Itaúna for Heats 1 through 8 of the women’s Round of 16. Emotions were high, action was intense and the field was narrowed to the final eight athletes left in competition as the Quarterfinalists were determined at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by. Banco do Brasil.

Heat 1 of the Quarterfinals will see Kirra Pinkerton (USA) face up against Francisca Veselko (POR). Heat 2 will feature Sophie McCulloch (AUS) versus Alyssa Spencer (USA). Heat 3 will have Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) against India Robinson (AUS) and the final heat of the round will see Sawyer Lindblad (USA) against Erin Brooks (CAN).

Competition Called OFF for Wednesday, October 18

Due to unfavorable conditions, the Office of Tours and Competition has decided to call the event OFF for tomorrow, Thursday, October 18th. An update for the next call will be made at 5:00 pm (GMT-3) to see when the competition will recommence.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

TUESDAY Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Round of 16 Results:
HEAT 1: Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 13.67 DEF. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 10.06
HEAT 2: Francisca Veselko (POR) 14.03 DEF. Vahine Fierro (FRA) 13.57
HEAT 3: Sophie McCulloch (AUS) 14.93 DEF. Bella Kenworthy (USA) 9.67
HEAT 4: Alyssa Spencer (USA) 15.33 DEF. Isabella Nichols (AUS) 8.50
HEAT 5: Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) 12.13 DEF. Tessa Thyssen (FRA) 12.00
HEAT 6: India Robinson (AUS) 13.50 DEF. Sarah Baum (RSA) 10.33
HEAT 7: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) 16.17 DEF. Luana Silva (BRA) 14.63
HEAT 8: Erin Brooks (CAN) 8.04 DEF. Taina Hinckel (BRA) 7.57

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Upcoming Quarterfinals Matchups:
HEAT 1: Kirra Pinkerton (USA) vs. Francisca Veselko (POR)
HEAT 2: Sophie McCulloch (AUS) vs. Alyssa Spencer (USA)
HEAT 3: Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) vs. India Robinson (AUS)
HEAT 4: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Erin Brooks (CAN)

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Upcoming Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS)
HEAT 2: Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA)
HEAT 3: Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Crosby Colapinto (USA)
HEAT 4: Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Nacho Gundesen (ARG)
HEAT 5: Michael Rodrigues (BRA) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)
HEAT 6: Eli Hanneman (HAW) vs. Miguel Pupo (BRA)
HEAT 7: Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Frederico Morais (POR)
HEAT 8: Kade Matson (USA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA)

Watch LIVE: Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil
The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil holds a competition window through October 21, 2023. Once called on, the competition will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners. For fans watching in Brazil, coverage of the competition’s Quarterfinals and beyond will continue exclusively on WorldSurfLeague.com and SporTV.The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil is supported by Corona, Banco do Brasil, the City of Saquarema, the Secretary of Sports and Leisure of the Rio de Janeiro State Government, Vivo, Natura KaiaK, Yeti and TikTok.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Presented by Banco do Brasil

Day 4…Tuesday….Competition Called ON at Corona Saquarema Pro

Women’s Round of 16 Starts at 10:35 AM GMT-3 (7 hours ahead)
Men’s Event is OFF for the Day
Watch LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) is in Heat 1 of the Round of 16 at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Tuesday, October 17, 2023) – Competition has been called ON at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Light winds and waves in the 3-foot range are on hand at Praia de Itaúna. Heats 1 – 8 of the Women’s Round of 16 will start at 10:35 a.m. GMT-3. The Men’s event has been called OFF for the day.

Heat 1 of the Round of 16 will see number one ranked surfer Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) matchup against Kirra Pinkerton (USA). They will be followed in Heat 2 by Vahine Fierro (FRA) against Francisca Veselko (POR)

Heat 3 of the Round of 16 will feature Bella Kenworthy (USA), who earned a 9.23 on her best wave in the Round of 32, against Sophie McCulloch (AUS). And defending event winner Alyssa Spencer (USA) will face up against Isabella Nichols (AUS).

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Upcoming Round of 16 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA)
HEAT 2: Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Francisca Veselko (POR)
HEAT 3: Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Sophie McCulloch (AUS)
HEAT 4: Alyssa Spencer (USA) vs. Isabella Nichols (AUS)
HEAT 5: Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) vs. Tessa Thyssen (FRA)
HEAT 6: Sarah Baum (RSA) vs. India Robinson (AUS)
HEAT 7: Luana Silva (BRA) vs. Sawyer Lindblad (USA)
HEAT 8: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Taina Hinckel (BRA)

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW

Presented by Banco do Brasil

CT ’24 Hopefuls Progress Towards Qualification at the Corona Saquarema Pro

Frederico Morais and Crosby Colapinto Qualify for 2024 Championship Tour
Women’s Round of 16 Determined
Race For 2024 Championship Tour Qualification Intensifies

Pictured: Frederico Morais (PRT) qualified for the 2024 Championship Tour today at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Diz

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Monday, October 16, 2023) – The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series, continued today with the men’s and women’s Rounds of 32 (Heats 1 – 8). Prior to the start of the day, eight men’s spots and four women’s spots were still up for grabs for 2024 Championship Tour (CT) qualification. That number was reduced for the men as Frederico Morais (PRT) and Crosby Colapinto (USA) qualified for the 2024 CT.

Frederico Morais and Crosby Colapinto Qualify for 2024 Championship Tour

Frederico Morais (PRT) has made it back onto the CT after advancing into the Round of 16 at the Corona Saquarema Pro. The veteran surfer was visibly emotional after hearing the news on the sands of Praia de Itaúna. Surrounded by his coach, teammates and fellow countrymen, Morais shouted in celebration that, “Portugal is back on Tour!”

In the final heat of the day, Morais was able to advance into the Round of 16 behind Kade Matson (USA), who took first place in the matchup that included Alejo Muniz (BRA) and George Pittar (AUS).

“It was my dream this year, being able to be on the CT competing amongst the best and representing Portugal on the Tour is a source of pride,” said Morais. “I worked hard, it’s a very difficult goal because the Challenger Series is a super complicated circuit, but if we believe it, we can achieve it and that’s what I did this year. Brazil has always been a special place for me, where I have great friends that I’ve made throughout my life and this place here is incredible. Thank you all for your continued support.”

Crosby Colapinto (USA) has qualified for the 2024 Championship Tour. After advancing earlier in the day into the Round of 16 at the Corona Saquarema Pro, Colapinto was able to collect 18,905 Challenger Series rankings points, currently placing him at No. 4 on the rankings. Colapinto will join his brother, Griffin Colapinto (USA), who finished in 3^rd place at the 2023 Rip Curl WSL Finals.

“It feels insane to make it on Tour,” said Colapinto. “I lost in the first round in Portugal knowing that I only needed to make one more heat to better my result. Then after I lost there, I had to deal with so many emotions, just feeling down and not knowing what would happen in Brazil. So getting over that and just knowing that everything happens for a reason. To come here, make some heats and qualify is just insane and I’m so grateful. I came here last year and lost in the first round and I wasn’t too happy with it, but now this year, it’s such a beautiful place, walking around the streets, it’s so tropical and nice. It definitely has a huge place in my heart.”

Pictured: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) executed a flawless air-reverse in the opening heat of Day 3 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

Women’s Round of 16 Determined

Moderate offshore winds and waves in the three-to-four-foot range were on hand at Praia de Itaúna for Heats 1 through 8 of the women’s Round of 32.

Current No. 1 on the 2023 Challenger Series rankings, Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), began the day with a high-scoring performance. After a few waves to limber up, Fitzgibbons executed a flawless frontside air-reverse followed by a two-turn combo for a 7.00 (out of a possible 10). Fitzgibbons then followed with two explosive backside hacks on a lefthander for a 7.67 and a 14.67 heat total (out of a possible 20) for the highest score of the Round of 32.

“That’s an interesting one, not a lot of people think it’s no pressure,” said Fitzgibbons. “We’re quickly moving on to the next challenge and building toward something. For me, to get my ticket back on Tour, I’m constantly thinking of how to improve my surfing. And any opportunity you get to surf against the best, there’s pressure. I just went out there and put in my best performance. Being in Brazil, I feed off that energy. I’ve loved coming here for 15 plus years. Just to be on the beach and sucking all that in. It’s a beautiful week to represent for such a great cause. Thanks to everyone here in Brazil for hosting us.”

Pictured: Luana Silva (BRA) at Praia de Itaúna on Day 3 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

In Heat 7 of the Round of 32, Brazilian Luana Silva (BRA) kept her dreams alive for Championship Tour qualification. Silva was able to pull through against formidable opponents Teresa Bonvalot (PRT), Amuro Tsuzuki (JPN), and Tainá Hinckel (BRA). After receiving a mid-range score early in the heat, Silva sewed together a combination of frontside maneuvers to guarantee her win and advance into the Round of 16.

“I’m feeling really good, I’m happy to be here in Saquarema for the last event of the year,” said Silva. “My whole family is here, so I’m really enjoying it,” said Silva. The last heat was a little tense, but I was happy that I managed to turn things around at the end. It’s very difficult not to think about qualification, that’s the total focus of this event, so I’m trying to stay focused on the present, enjoy my time here with the group and continue surfing well.”

Pictured: India Robinson (AUS) can potentially qualify for the 2024 CT at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Diz

Race For 2024 Championship Tour Qualification Intensifies

As the Corona Saquarema Pro switches into two-person heats, the qualification scenario will still be determined in the upcoming days. The current list of women that can still qualify for the 2024 CT in Brazil are as follows: Sally Fitzgibbons has already qualified; India Robinson (AUS), Sawyer Lindblad (USA), Alyssa Spencer (USA) and Isabella Nichols (AUS) round out the current Top 5 for the women on the 2023 Challenger Series rankings; just outside of the cut sits Luana Silva (BRA), who is still in the running for qualification and hopes to do it in front of her Brazilian fans.

In the Men’s division, Cole Houshmand (USA), Jacob Willcox (AUS), Frederico Morais (PRT), and Crosby Colapinto (USA) have qualified. Only six spots remain and could be obtained by any of the current list of athletes in the Top 10 and beyond including: Jake Marshall (USA), Deivid Silva (BRA), Imaikalani deVault (HAW), Eli Hanneman (HAW), Kade Matson (USA), Mateus Herdy (BRA), Jackson Baker (AUS), Samuel Pupo (BRA) and more.

When competition resumes in the Women’s division, Heat 1 of the Round of 16 will see number one ranked surfer Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) matchup against Kirra Pinerton (USA) For the Men, Shion Crawford (HAW) will face Jackson Baker (AUS) in Heat 1 of the Round of 16.

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Round of 64 Results:
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) 11.53 DEF. Jacob Willcox (AUS) 11.13, Marc Lacomare (FRA) 10.37, Dylan Moffat (AUS) 7.07
HEAT 2: Reef Heazlewood (AUS) 13.33 DEF. Jackson Baker (AUS) 10.13, Vitor Ferreira (BRA) 9.54, Miguel Tudela (PER) 7.77
HEAT 3: Mateus Herdy (BRA) 15.33 DEF. Jordan Lawler (AUS) 13.77, Carlos Munoz (CRC) 9.44, Nolan Rapoza (USA) 8.66
HEAT 4: Jake Marshall (USA) 15.10 DEF. Mihimana Braye (FRA) 12.23, Ian Gouveia (BRA) 10.24, Kauli Vaast (FRA) 8.77
HEAT 5: Nacho Gundesen (ARG) 13.54 DEF. Crosby Colapinto (USA) 13.43, Edgard Groggia (BRA) 10.27, Dimitri Poulos (USA) 10.20
HEAT 6: Luke Thompson (RSA) 11.46 DEF. Imaikalani deVault (HAW) 10.26, Jackson Bunch (HAW) 8.70, Teva Bouchgua (MAR) 8.43
HEAT 7: Daniel Emslie (RSA) 12.07 DEF. Jett Schilling (USA) 11.53, Morgan Cibilic (AUS) 10.44, Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL) 8.97
HEAT 8: Joao Chianca (BRA) 15.26 DEF. Joel Vaughan (AUS) 15.00, Adin Masencamp (RSA) 11.77, Valentin Neves (BRA) 11.40
HEAT 9: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 14.07 DEF. Heitor Mueller (BRA) 12.70, Jorgann Couzinet (FRA) 12.56, Timothe Bisso (FRA) 9.67
HEAT 10: Michael Rodrigues (BRA) 12.57 DEF. Joan Duru (FRA) 10.90, Gatien Delahaye (FRA) 10.70, Jabe Swierkocki (USA) 8.20
HEAT 11: Deivid Silva (BRA) 13.77 DEF. Cauã Costa (BRA) 13.46, Justin Becret (FRA) 11.27, Maxime Huscenot (FRA) 9.83
HEAT 12: Eli Hanneman (HAW) 13.97 DEF. Jadson Andre (BRA) 11.90, Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 11.54, Alister Reginato (AUS) 8.43
HEAT 13: Jarvis Earle (AUS) 12.76 DEF. Frederico Morais (POR) 11.50, Mikey McDonagh (AUS) 10.20, Leo Casal (BRA) 10.03
HEAT 14: Marco Mignot (FRA) 14.40 DEF. Kade Matson (USA) 12.03, Lucas Silveira (BRA) 11.27, Gabriel Klaussner (BRA) 10.67
HEAT 15: George Pittar (AUS) 11.13 DEF. Samuel Pupo (BRA) 11.00, Rafael Teixeira (BRA) 9.86, Sheldon Simkus (AUS) 7.00
HEAT 16: Alejo Muniz (BRA) 11.97 DEF. Cole Houshmand (USA) 11.03, Billy Stairmand (NZL) 9.47, Lucca Mesinas (PER) 7.16

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Upcoming Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Reef Heazlewood (AUS) vs. Jordan Lawler (AUS) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA)
HEAT 2: Jacob Willcox (AUS) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA)
HEAT 3: Nacho Gundesen (ARG) vs. Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 4: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Daniel Emslie (RSA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 5: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA) vs. Cauã Costa (BRA) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA)
HEAT 6: Heitor Mueller (BRA) vs. Joan Duru (FRA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA) vs. Eli Hanneman (HAW)
HEAT 7: Jarvis Earle (AUS) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 8: Frederico Morais (POR) vs. Kade Matson (USA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Upcoming Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Francisca Veselko (POR) vs. Eweleiula Wong (HAW) vs. Zoë Steyn (RSA)
HEAT 2: Ellie Harrison (AUS) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA) vs. Daniella Rosas (PER)
HEAT 3: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Silvana Lima (BRA) vs. Leilani McGonagle (CRC)
HEAT 4: Alyssa Spencer (USA) vs. Sophie McCulloch (AUS) vs. Carolina Mendes (POR) vs. Zoe McDougall (HAW)
HEAT 5: India Robinson (AUS) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) vs. Laura Raupp (BRA) vs. Camilla Kemp (DEU)
HEAT 6: Bronte Macaulay (AUS) vs. Sarah Baum (RSA) vs. Tessa Thyssen (FRA) vs. Sophia Medina (BRA)
HEAT 7: Luana Silva (BRA) vs. Teresa Bonvalot (POR) vs. Amuro Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Taina Hinckel (BRA)
HEAT 8: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Zahli Kelly (AUS) vs. Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Arena Rodriguez Vargas (PER)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

MONDAY Day 3 of Competition Called ON at Corona Saquarema Pro
Women’s Round of 32 Starts at 8:05 AM GMT-3 (they’re 7 hours ahead of us)
Men’s Round of 32 to Follow
Watch LIVE at WorldSurfLeague.com

Pictured: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) is scheduled for Heat 1 of the Round of 32 at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Tostee

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Monday, October 16, 2023) – Competition has been called ON at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Light offshore wind and waves in the 3-to-4 foot range are on tap at Praia de Itaúna. Heats 1 – 8 of the Women’s Round of 32 will start at 8:05 a.m. GMT-3.

Heat 1 of the Round of 32 will see number one ranked surfer Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) matchup against Francisca Veselko (PRT), Eweleiula Wong (HAW) and Zoë Steyn (RSA). Heat 2 will see Ellie Harrison (AUS) against Vahine Fierro (FRA), Kirra Pinkerton (USA) and Daniella Rosas (PER)

In the Men’s Heat 1 of the Round of 32, the currrent No. 2 on the Challenger Series rankings Jacob Willcox (AUS) will face Dylan Moffat (AUS), Marc Lacomare (FRA) and Shion Crawford (HAW). Heat 2 will feature Jackson Baker (AUS), Reef Heazlewood (AUS), Miguel Tudela (PER) and Vitor Ferreira (BRA).

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Francisca Veselko (POR) vs. Eweleiula Wong (HAW) vs. Zoë Steyn (RSA)
HEAT 2: Ellie Harrison (AUS) vs. Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA) vs. Daniella Rosas (PER)
HEAT 3: Isabella Nichols (AUS) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA) vs. Silvana Lima (BRA) vs. Leilani McGonagle (CRC)
HEAT 4: Alyssa Spencer (USA) vs. Sophie McCulloch (AUS) vs. Carolina Mendes (POR) vs. Zoe McDougall (HAW)
HEAT 5: India Robinson (AUS) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (EUK) vs. Laura Raupp (BRA) vs. Camilla Kemp (DEU)
HEAT 6: Bronte Macaulay (AUS) vs. Sarah Baum (RSA) vs. Tessa Thyssen (FRA) vs. Sophia Medina (BRA)
HEAT 7: Luana Silva (BRA) vs. Teresa Bonvalot (POR) vs. Amuro Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Taina Hinckel (BRA)
HEAT 8: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Zahli Kelly (AUS) vs. Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Arena Rodriguez Vargas (PER)

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Round of 32 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Reef Heazlewood (AUS) vs. Jordan Lawler (AUS) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA)
HEAT 2: Jacob Willcox (AUS) vs. Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Jake Marshall (USA)
HEAT 3: Nacho Gundesen (ARG) vs. Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS)
HEAT 4: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Daniel Emslie (RSA) vs. Joao Chianca (BRA)
HEAT 5: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Michael Rodrigues (BRA) vs. Cauã Costa (BRA) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA)
HEAT 6: Heitor Mueller (BRA) vs. Joan Duru (FRA) vs. Deivid Silva (BRA) vs. Eli Hanneman (HAW)
HEAT 7: Jarvis Earle (AUS) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. Cole Houshmand (USA)
HEAT 8: Frederico Morais (POR) vs. Kade Matson (USA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

EARLIER UPDATES BELOW

Presented by Banco do Brasil

Intense Action on Day 2 (Sunday) of the Corona Saquarema Pro

Men’s Top Seeds Advance Into Round of 32
Joel Vaughan Earns Perfect 10-Point Ride
Race For 2024 Championship Tour Qualification Intensifies
Front page: Eli Hanneman blasts an excellent air…winning his heat. Image: Daniel Smorigo

Pictured: Mateus Herdy (BRA) kept his CT qualification dreams alive on Day 2 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Sunday, October 15, 2023) – Today, competition began at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Clean offshore winds and waves in the 4 foot range were on hand at Praia de Itaúna for Heats 1 – 16 of the Men’s Round of 64.

Men’s Top Seeds Advance Into Round of 32

Early in the day, Mateus Herdy (BRA) took the third heat of the day by storm. After several failed attempts, Herdy was able to complete his first scoring ride for a 6.40. He then paddled into a fast-paced righthander, sped down the line, executed a clean air-reverse and followed with a huge stalefish 360 to earn an 8.93 from the judges for a 15.33 total, the highest of the event so far.

“It’s a really important event for me and, when we’re under this pressure, you either manage to deal with it well, or you end up failing, right? There’s no two ways about and I’m happy to start the event with the highest heat total, but I really wasn’t thinking about that and just about surfing well,” said Mateus Herdy.

Herdy moved into the Round of 32 and now has a heavy task before him. He will now face a stacked heat featuring Jacob Willcox (AUS), Jackson Baker (AUS) and Jake Marshall (USA).

Joel Vaughan Earns Perfect 10-Point Ride

Today’s biggest highlight occurred in Heat 8 of the Round of 64. João Chianca (BRA), local Saquarema surfer and No. 4 ranked surfer on the 2023 Championship Tour, was the heavy favorite. He earned an impressive 15.26 total (out of a possible 20 points) to advance in first place. Valentin Neves (BRA), another powerful local surfer was looking good to move into the next round alongside Chianca.

However, in the dying seconds of the heat, Joel Vaughan (AUS) scratched into a long righthander, stalled on take off, pumped down the line and blasted a humongous alley-oop. The entire crowd at Praia de Itaúna erupted in unison as Vaughan landed perfectly. After a short time for deliberation, the judging panel granted Vaughan the first perfect 10-point ride in the history of the Corona Saquarema Pro and only the second of the 2023 Challenger Series, with the first occurring at the Ballito Pro and executed by Jacob Willcox.

“I was in third and I wasn’t getting any huge scores, so I just relaxed and figured I might as well go for something big and hopefully I land it,” said Vaughan. “That wave came through just as I calmed myself down and relaxed. I stalled and went for it, actually I thought I hit it too late, but it ended up putting me in the flats a bit more and ended up working out. It was definitely the best air I’ve ever done in a competition, the biggest one I’ve landed, so I’m super stoked.”

Asked how it felt to make history at the Corona Saquarema Pro, Vaughan said, “It feels really good to be a part of history. I’m super stoked to get a ten. In South Africa I got a 9.83, so I’m really happy to get a ten and get through that round.”

Pictured: Crosby Colapinto (USA) advanced into the Round of 32 with a heat win on Day 2 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

Race For 2024 Championship Qualification Intensifies

Several athletes in the Top 10 in the rankings continued their quest for Championship Tour qualification on Day 2 of the Corona Saquarema Pro. The race intensified as athletes such as Crosby Colapinto (USA) moved up a spot from sixth to fifth in the rankings, dropping Deivid Silva (BRA) down one spot. Other athletes that moved up in the rankings were Eli Hanneman (HAW) who moved into seventh place and Samuel Pupo (BRA), who jumped back into tenth from twelfth, bumping out fellow countryman Mateus Herdy from the Top 10.

When competition resumes in the Women’s division, Heat 1 of the Round of 32 will see number one ranked surfer Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) matchup against Francisca Veselko (PRT), Eweleiula Wong (HAW) and Zoë Steyn (RSA).

For the Men, Shion Crawford (HAW) will face Reef Heazlewood (AUS), Jordan Lawler (AUS) and Mihimana Braye (FRA)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Sunday: Competition Called ON at Corona Saquarema Pro
Men’s Round 2 Started at 8:05 AM GMT-3 (7 hours ahead of Hawaii so 2am Sunday HI time)
Heats 1 – 16 Scheduled For the Day
Legends Heat to Follow
Women Are Off For the Day

Pictured: Jacob Willcox (AUS) is scheduled for Heat 1 of the Round of 64 at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Tostee

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Sunday, October 15, 2023) – Competition has been called ON at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series, with light offshore wind and waves in the 4 foot range. Heats 1 – 16 of Men’s Round 2 will start at 8:05 a.m. GMT-3. Legends Heat featuring 70’s and 90’s Brazilian icons to follow. The Women are OFF for the day.

In Heat 1 of the Round of 64, the currrent No. 2 on the Challenger Series rankings Jacob Willcox (AUS) will face Dylan Moffat (AUS), Marc Lacomare (FRA) and Shion Crawford (HAW). Heat 2 will feature Jackson Baker (AUS), Reef Heazlewood (AUS), Miguel Tudela (PER) and Vitor Ferreira (BRA).

Following the day’s competition, a Legends Heat is scheduled featuring Rico de Souza (BRA) and Otávio Pacheco (BRA) representing the 70’s generation. The heat will also feature Victor Ribas (BRA) against Guilherme Herdy (BRA) representing the 90’s.

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Round of 64 Matchups

HEAT 1: Jacob Willcox (AUS) vs. Dylan Moffat (AUS) vs. Marc Lacomare (FRA) vs. Shion Crawford (HAW)

HEAT 2: Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Reef Heazlewood (AUS) vs. Miguel Tudela (PER) vs. Vitor Ferreira (BRA)

HEAT 3: Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Nolan Rapoza (USA) vs. Carlos Munoz (CRC) vs. Jordan Lawler (AUS)

HEAT 4: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Kauli Vaast (FRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA)

HEAT 5: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. Dimitri Poulos (USA) vs. Edgard Groggia (BRA) vs. Nacho Gundesen (ARG)

HEAT 6: Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW) vs. Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Teva Bouchgua (MAR)

HEAT 7: Morgan Cibilic (AUS) vs. Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Daniel Emslie (RSA) vs. Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL)

HEAT 8: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Adin Masencamp (RSA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS) vs. Valentin Neves (BRA)

HEAT 9: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Jorgann Couzinet (FRA) vs. Timothe Bisso (FRA) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)

HEAT 10: Michael Rodrigues (BRA) vs. Joan Duru (FRA) vs. Jabe Swierkocki (USA) vs. Gatien Delahaye (FRA)

HEAT 11: Deivid Silva (BRA) vs. Justin Becret (FRA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA) vs. Cauã Costa (BRA)

HEAT 12: Eli Hanneman (HAW) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Alister Reginato (AUS) vs. Ryan Kainalo (BRA)

HEAT 13: Frederico Morais (POR) vs. Mikey McDonagh (AUS) vs. Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Jarvis Earle (AUS)

HEAT 14: Kade Matson (USA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Lucas Silveira (BRA) vs. Gabriel Klaussner (BRA)

HEAT 15: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Rafael Teixeira (BRA) vs. Sheldon Simkus (AUS)

HEAT 16: Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Lucca Mesinas (PER) vs. Billy Stairmand (NZL)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

Watch LIVE: Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil
The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil holds a competition window October 14 – 21, 2023. Once called on, the competition will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the WSL’s YouTube channel, and the free WSL app. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners. For fans watching in Brazil, coverage of the competition’s Quarterfinals and beyond will continue exclusively on WorldSurfLeague.com and SporTV.The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil is supported by Corona, Banco do Brasil, the City of Saquarema, the Secretary of Sports and Leisure of the Rio de Janeiro State Government, Vivo, Natura KaiaK, Yeti and TikTok.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Day one done: Competition Begins at Corona Saquarema Pro

Presented by Banco do Brasil

Carolina Mendes Advances Into Round of 32
Cauã Costa Earns Day’s Top Scores
Eweleiula Wong Has Strong Start at Praia de Itaúna
Te Kehukehu Butler Advances Into Round of 64

Pictured: Cauã Costa (BRA) earned an 8.00 on a lofty frontside air on Day 1 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Saturday, October 14, 2023) – Today, competition began at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil, stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series. Onshore winds and waves in the 4-to-6 foot range were on hand at Praia de Itaúna as Heats 1 – 8 of the Women’s Round of 48 were completed as were Heats 1 – 8 of the Men’s Round of 80.

Pictured: Carolina Mendes (PRT) earned the highest heat total of the day with a 12.43 on Day 1 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

Carolina Mendes Advances Into Round of 32

Carolina Mendes (PRT) charged the powerful waves at Praia de Itaúna and was able to earn the day’s highest heat total of a 12.43 to advance into the Round of 32. Leilani McGonagle (CRI) advanced in second place, eliminating Natasha Van Greunen (RSA) and Bruna Carderelli (BRA) from the competition.

“It’s pretty hard. Saquarema is always like this when the swell is coming. I’m pretty happy that I could find two waves and made the heat. It was a long year for me. So being home and making the heat, it’s a special day for me,” said Mendes. “For me, I just want to surf. I’m loving being here in Saquarema. It’s such a special place for me. I grew up here and I moved to Portugal, so for me, being here is like being home. I have a house here. I just want to enjoy my time, trying to surf and show the judge I am a good surfer.”

Cauã Costa Earns Day’s Top Scores

Cauã Costa has had a successful past at Praia de Itaúna. Costa won his second WSL South American Junior championship, winning the last two editions at the Saquarema Surf Festival in 2021 and 2022. He is now looking to qualify for the 2024 Challenger Series. Currently, Costa occupies third place in the WSL South America regional ranking.

On Saturday, Costa earned applause from the crowd on the beach by scoring a 14-point heat total that included a 6.00 and an excellent 8.00 on a huge frontside 360-reverse on a righthander at Praia de Itaúna.

“I always feel great here in Saquarema. I feel very comfortable on these waves in whatever condition and I’m happy to be able to represent Brazil in a contest at this level,” said Costa. “There are always these rights here in the channel when the waves get bigger and I focus on them. Today the rights were breaking with good ramps and I didn’t take my eye off them. I opened the heat with an 8.00, which already takes some weight off, not that I’m under pressure, but I just want to do my job well here and that’s it, let’s move on to the next one”.

Eweleiula Wong Has Strong Start at Praia de Itaúna

Another surfer that excelled in the difficult conditions was Eweleiula Wong (HAW) who opened up the Women’s Round of 48 with a 12.33 on her two best rides. Peruvian surfer Daniella Rosas (PER) was also able to advance into the Round of 32 with a heat total of 7.40. Bowing out from the event were Catalina Zariquiey (PER) and Ella McCaffray (USA).

“I had a lot of fun out there. It’s definitely similar to some of the beach breaks in Hawaii. It was really fun,” said Wong. “I caught [the 7 point wave] on my way back out. I didn’t really expect much, but I saw a big section and I just went for it.”

Pictured: Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL) advanced into the Round of 64 with a heat win on Day 1 of the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

Te Kehukehu Butler Advances Into Round of 64

Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL) also had a strong outing in the Men’s opening round with a 12.90 to win Heat 4. Local surfer Valentin Neves (BRA), son of Brazilian legend Leo Neves, used his knowledge to move into the Round of 64 behind Butler.

“I’m feeling pretty good. I’m stoked. Waves are pretty fun, a little tricky. But water’s warm at least. Last event of the year, so just go out and have fun,” said Butler. “Feeling good. Head space is all good. Just cruising. Support the boys, I know there’s a couple big heats going down for the boys from my region so I’ll be giving them all my support and hopefully surfing well myself. Thanks heaps everyone for watching. Up the All Blacks, eh?”

A call is set for 7:45 am (GMT-3) for a possible 8:05 am start. The event’s top seeds will hit the water when competition recommences and will see current No. 2 on the Challenger Series ranking Jacob Willcox (AUS) face Dylan Moffat (AUS), Marc Lacomare (FRA) and Shion Crawford (HAW).

In the Women’s division, Heat 1 of the Round of 32 will see number one ranked surfer Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) matchup against Francisca Veselko (PRT), Eweleiula Wong (HAW) and Zoë Steyn (RSA).

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Round of 48 Results:
HEAT 1: Eweleiula Wong (HAW) 12.33 DEF. Daniella Rosas (PER) 7.40, Catalina Zariquiey (PER) 6.76, Ella McCaffray (USA) 5.30
HEAT 2: Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 8.27 DEF. Zoë Steyn (RSA) 7.70, Yolanda Hopkins (POR) 6.90, Sara Wakita (JPN) 4.93
HEAT 3: Silvana Lima (BRA) 7.70 DEF. Zoe McDougall (HAW) 7.50, Nyxie Ryan (AUS) 6.63, Karol Ribeiro (BRA) 2.54
HEAT 4: Carolina Mendes (POR) 12.43 DEF. Leilani McGonagle (CRC) 10.67, Natasha Van Greunen (RSA) 2.67, Bruna Carderelli (BRA) 2.40
HEAT 5: Laura Raupp (BRA) 8.73 DEF. Sophia Medina (BRA) 7.83, Ariane Ochoa (EUK) 6.90, Taís Almeida (BRA) 3.94
HEAT 6: Tessa Thyssen (FRA) 11.60 DEF. Camilla Kemp (DEU) 10.47, Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) 6.03, Jessie Van Niekerk (RSA) 5.60
HEAT 7: Amuro Tsuzuki (JPN) 11.66 DEF. Arena Rodriguez Vargas (PER) 6.40, Minami Nonaka (JPN) 5.70, Sol Aguirre (PER) 5.50
HEAT 8: Erin Brooks (CAN) 11.73 DEF. Taina Hinckel (BRA) 7.67, Anon Matsuoka (JPN) 7.34, Pauline Ado (FRA) 6.27

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Round of 80 Results:
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) 12.07 DEF. Vitor Ferreira (BRA) 12.07, Marlon Harrison (AUS) 4.43, Josh Burke (BRB) 4.37
HEAT 2: Jordan Lawler (AUS) 11.50 DEF. Mihimana Braye (FRA) 10.20, Marco Giorgi (URY) 8.06, Gabriel Andre (BRA) 6.93
HEAT 3: Nacho Gundesen (ARG) 7.83 DEF. Teva Bouchgua (MAR) 7.47, Kian Martin (SWE) 5.53, John Mark Tokong (PHL) 5.50
HEAT 4: Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL) 12.90 DEF. Valentin Neves (BRA) 8.57, Tiago Carrique (FRA) 8.10, Adur Amatriain (EUK) 7.84
HEAT 5: Heitor Mueller (BRA) 11.40 DEF. Gatien Delahaye (FRA) 9.74, Kalani Ball (AUS) 6.44, Connor Slijpen (RSA) 5.80
HEAT 6: Cauã Costa (BRA) 14.00 DEF. Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 11.44, Tenshi Iwami (JPN) 9.60, Tyler Gunter (USA) 7.24
HEAT 7: Jarvis Earle (AUS) 10.70 DEF. Gabriel Klaussner (BRA) 8.76, Daiki Tanaka (JPN) 7.26, Krystian Kymerson (BRA) 7.07
HEAT 8: Sheldon Simkus (AUS) 11.44 DEF. Billy Stairmand (NZL) 8.74, Matheus Navarro (BRA) 8.17, Marcos Correa (BRA) 6.66

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Upcoming Men’s Round of 64 Matchups:
HEAT 1: Jacob Willcox (AUS) vs. Dylan Moffat (AUS) vs. Marc Lacomare (FRA) vs. Shion Crawford (HAW)
HEAT 2: Jackson Baker (AUS) vs. Reef Heazlewood (AUS) vs. Miguel Tudela (PER) vs. Vitor Ferreira (BRA)
HEAT 3: Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Nolan Rapoza (USA) vs. Carlos Munoz (CRC) vs. Jordan Lawler (AUS)
HEAT 4: Jake Marshall (USA) vs. Kauli Vaast (FRA) vs. Ian Gouveia (BRA) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA)
HEAT 5: Crosby Colapinto (USA) vs. Dimitri Poulos (USA) vs. Edgard Groggia (BRA) vs. Nacho Gundesen (ARG)
HEAT 6: Imaikalani deVault (HAW) vs. Jackson Bunch (HAW) vs. Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Teva Bouchgua (MAR)
HEAT 7: Morgan Cibilic (AUS) vs. Jett Schilling (USA) vs. Daniel Emslie (RSA) vs. Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL)
HEAT 8: Joao Chianca (BRA) vs. Adin Masencamp (RSA) vs. Joel Vaughan (AUS) vs. Valentin Neves (BRA)
HEAT 9: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Jorgann Couzinet (FRA) vs. Timothe Bisso (FRA) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)
HEAT 10: Michael Rodrigues (BRA) vs. Joan Duru (FRA) vs. Jabe Swierkocki (USA) vs. Gatien Delahaye (FRA)
HEAT 11: Deivid Silva (BRA) vs. Justin Becret (FRA) vs. Maxime Huscenot (FRA) vs. Cauã Costa (BRA)
HEAT 12: Eli Hanneman (HAW) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA) vs. Alister Reginato (AUS) vs. Ryan Kainalo (BRA)
HEAT 13: Frederico Morais (POR) vs. Mikey McDonagh (AUS) vs. Leo Casal (BRA) vs. Jarvis Earle (AUS)
HEAT 14: Kade Matson (USA) vs. Marco Mignot (FRA) vs. Lucas Silveira (BRA) vs. Gabriel Klaussner (BRA)
HEAT 15: Samuel Pupo (BRA) vs. George Pittar (AUS) vs. Rafael Teixeira (BRA) vs. Sheldon Simkus (AUS)
HEAT 16: Cole Houshmand (USA) vs. Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Lucca Mesinas (PER) vs. Billy Stairmand (NZL)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.

PRIOR UPDATES BELOW

Competition Called ON at Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil

Final Stop No. 6 on the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series

Men’s Round 1 Starts at 8:00 AM GMT-3 (7 hours ahead of Hawaii)
Women’s Round 1 to Follow
Current CS Ratings HERE

Pictured: Samuel Pupo (BRA) is seeking Championship Tour qualification at the Corona Saquarema Pro presented by Banco do Brasil. Credit: © WSL / Smorigo

PRAIA DE ITAÚNA, Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Saturday, October 14, 2023) – Competition has been called ON at the Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil…light wind and waves in the 4-to-6 foot range. Heats 1 – 8 of Men’s Round 1 will start at 8:00 a.m. GMT-3. Heats 1 -8 of Women’s Round 1 will follow.

Hawaiians Shion Crawford (HAW) and Zac Hedemann (HAW) will kick off the competition against Josh Burke (BRB) and Marlon Harrison (AUS) in Heat 1 of Men’s Round 1. They will be followed by an international field led by Jordan Lawler (AUS), Mihimana Braye (FRA), Gabriel Andre (BRA) and Marco Giorgi (URY).

Heat 1 of Women’s Round 1 will begin with Peruvians Daniella Rosas (PER) and Catalina Zariquiey (PER) facing off against Ella McCaffray (USA) and Eweleiula Wong (HAW). Heat 2 will see Yolanda Hopkins (PRT) and Kirra Pinkerton (USA) against Sara Wakita (JPN) and Zoe Steyn (RSA).

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Women’s Round of 48 Matchups

ROUND OF 48
HEAT 1: Daniella Rosas (PER) vs. Ella McCaffray (USA) vs. Eweleiula Wong (HAW) vs. Catalina Zariquiey (PER)
HEAT 2: Yolanda Hopkins (POR) vs. Kirra Pinkerton (USA) vs. Sara Wakita (JPN) vs. Zoë Steyn (RSA)
HEAT 3: Zoe McDougall (HAW) vs. Nyxie Ryan (AUS) vs. Silvana Lima (BRA) vs. Karol Ribeiro (BRA)
HEAT 4: Leilani McGonagle (CRC) vs. Carolina Mendes (POR) vs. Natasha Van Greunen (RSA) vs. Bruna Carderelli (BRA)
HEAT 5: Ariane Ochoa (EUK) vs. Sophia Medina (BRA) vs. Laura Raupp (BRA) vs. Taís Almeida (BRA)
HEAT 6: Nanaho Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Tessa Thyssen (FRA) vs. Jessie Van Niekerk (RSA) vs. Camilla Kemp (DEU)
HEAT 7: Sol Aguirre (PER) vs. Amuro Tsuzuki (JPN) vs. Minami Nonaka (JPN) vs. Arena Rodriguez Vargas (PER)
HEAT 8: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Pauline Ado (FRA) vs. Anon Matsuoka (JPN) vs. Taina Hinckel (BRA)

Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil Men’s Round of 80 Matchups

ROUND OF 80
HEAT 1: Shion Crawford (HAW) vs. Josh Burke (BRB) vs. Marlon Harrison (AUS) vs. Zac Hedemann (HAW)
HEAT 2: Jordan Lawler (AUS) vs. Mihimana Braye (FRA) vs. Gabriel Andre (BRA) vs. Marco Giorgi (URY)
HEAT 3: Kian Martin (SWE) vs. John Mark Tokong (PHL) vs. Teva Bouchgua (MAR) vs. Nacho Gundesen (ARG)
HEAT 4: Te Kehukehu Butler (NZL) vs. Tiago Carrique (FRA) vs. Adur Amatriain (EUK) vs. Valentin Neves (BRA)
HEAT 5: Kalani Ball (AUS) vs. Gatien Delahaye (FRA) vs. Connor Slijpen (RSA) vs. Heitor Mueller (BRA)
HEAT 6: Ryan Kainalo (BRA) vs. Tenshi Iwami (JPN) vs. Cauã Costa (BRA) vs. Tyler Gunter (USA)
HEAT 7: Jarvis Earle (AUS) vs. Daiki Tanaka (JPN) vs. Krystian Kymerson (BRA) vs. Gabriel Klaussner (BRA)
HEAT 8: Sheldon Simkus (AUS) vs. Billy Stairmand (NZL) vs. Matheus Navarro (BRA) vs. Marcos Correa (BRA)

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com.