Solomon Islands Sucks – Monster Madness

Solomon Islands Sucks – Monster Madness

The Solomo Islands, known for its diverse culture, the nation is home to around 600,000 people, with Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian communities each contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. The archipelago's dense rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and vast lagoons make it a haven for biodiversity, both on land and within its extensive coral reef systems. What better way to see these stunning reefs than having the entire ocean land on your head and compress you into them, I know, sounds fun hey, it is to Nate Florence and crew.

From the vault: JJF & Crew

From the vault: JJF & Crew

I’ve been compiling timelines like this forever and doing nothing with them, besides maybe sharing with a few surfers who were out that day. I promise not to spam you with 3-foot Cardiff clips on the regular, but instead of hoarding the footage on Dropbox for eternity, I think it makes sense to put out some memorable sessions to the world, so people can enjoy.

This was shot on January 5th, 2022 during the (digital) Vans Triple Crown of Surfing waiting period. It went largely under the radar, but was easily one of the best non-barreling sessions of surfing I’ve ever witnessed.

At the time, I thought for sure Parallel Sea would be using it. I sent over the timeline to John and Erik Knutson later that evening in case they wanted to have an extra angle. Two years later, I don’t recall seeing more than maybe a few clips here or there.

This footage is in chronological order, no editing aside from cutting out a few waves that weren’t worthy. There were a few times I had to hold my composure after John did a carve, but seriously, inside I was freaking out watching this go down.

What I like most about this style of video is showing perspective. For how many world class surfers were out, there is one obvious standout. I think that has been somewhat lost in the recent times outside of live competition. The surfers who are best at selecting and putting their clips out on social media get the maximum notoriety, but if you watch a session like this in person, the tape doesn’t lie. John is absolutely unreal. @jimmicane

Surfers:
John John Florence
Jack Robinson
Nathan Florence
Ivan Florence
Harry Bryant
Imai deVault
Barron Mamiya
Jackson Dorian
Noah Beschen
Dane Gudauskas

Friends On The Goldie

Friends On The Goldie

Just some of my favourite videos from 2023, dig in. @hooklinensinkr

Surfers : Alana Blanchard, Jack Freestone, Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, Mitch Parkinson, Jade Morgan, Micah Margison, Dingo Morrison, Sheldon Simkus, Max Kearney, Voltair Sora, Luke Griffin, Kanaiya Webb, Dimity Stoyle ,Matthew Pierce, Dylan Moffat,Tosh Tudor, Cooper Davies, Zane Assink, Blake Neka, Tully Wylie, Connor Lyson

The GOAT at Pipe

The GOAT at Pipe

Kelly Slater is back on Oahu and everyone is stoked to have him here. After his hip surgery, surf aficionados were all curious as to how the GOAT would handle the recovery. Well, after watching this video, you would probably never guess that he recently underwent a heavy medical procedure. Today he displayed some knife like carves, typical Slater-esque aggression, and superb wave selection. I don't think it's a stretch to say... Kelly Slater is back!

West Indian Wonderland / Josh Burke

West Indian Wonderland / Josh Burke

Barbados, world-class waves and vibrant Caribbean culture, what’s not to love. Get your spoon, dig into Soup Bowl with Josh Burke as he showcases the aqua playgrounds of this jewel in the West Indies.

12-Month Hiatus For Steph Gilmore

12-Month Hiatus For Steph Gilmore

Steph posted on Insta
“ I am planning to take this tour season off as a refresh for myself physically, mentally, and to enjoy following swells and free surfing in new places. I have some projects and trips I want to do, which haven’t been possible while traveling for the tour season. I am still passionate and dedicated to competing, and I have goals and dreams that I am still chasing - I’m excited for something fresh this year and I look forward to returning to competition in 2025.”

WSL announced the departure and guaranteed Steph a 2025 wild card

"While we will miss Steph's presence on the CT this season, we wholeheartedly support her decision to take this time for herself," said Jessi Miley-Dyer, WSL Chief of Sport.

"Steph's influence on surfing and sport has been profound, inspiring countless people around the world. We eagerly await her return in 2025, where she will be welcomed back with the season wildcard, ready to continue her incredible legacy."

"Under the WSL Rule Book, Gilmore's spot continues down the 2023 CT rankings, and it is not allocated to the first replacement as this is a pre-season withdrawal. The next qualifier on the CT is Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), who is tied with Brisa Hennessy (CRC) and wins the tiebreak due to heat wins (4 to 3). Fitzgibbons as Gilmore's replacement via the CT opens up a spot via the Challenger Series. Luana Silva (BRA), as the next ranked surfer on the Challenger Series, then qualifies for the CT in Fitzgibbons' absence on the Challenger Series' rankings. Silva will start her 2024 season at Pipeline, marking her return to the CT.

"With Silva previously holding the WSL Replacement position and now gaining full-time entry on the CT, Sophie McCulloch(AUS) has been allocated the WSL Replacement spot by the WSL Tours and Competition team. Following Carissa Moore's withdrawal from the 2024 CT season after the Pipe Pro, McCulloch will compete in Moore's place as the first replacement."