WSL commentator and coach to John John Florence, Ross Williams, was recently asked: “Who is the best surfer not on the Championship Tour?” On the men’s side, Ross pointed the finger at twenty one year old Indonesian: Rio Waida. Rio normally spends a chunk of his time chasing QS points, but with almost all forms of competition going down the toilet over the last twelve months, he’s been surfing all his favourite breaks here in Bali. With a complete package of airs, turns, tube riding, lefts or rights – he’s almost always the standout in any session, regardless of the type of waves or conditions. 

After been locked out of Tasmania for 15 months I finally got to chase a Shippies swell. With a long period south west swell the late summer season forecast looked all too good not to chase. So with Bondi Rescue lifeguard and big wave surfer Clint Kimmins we roll the dice and this is what we got. – Tim Bonython

This wave grows from a 3ft take off into a 12ft Barrel the size of a truck.

I was on vacation with my girl in Costa Rica, when all of a sudden the swell of the winter popped up for home, we instantly packed our bags headed to the airport. This wave doesn’t break that often, but when mother nature aligned there is no place I’d rather be. It was a mission to get back home, but the session made it worth while – Nic Von Rupp