Surfing News Roundup: Olympics Committee Silences Activists With Teahupo’s Tower, Bethany Hamilton Pens Note, John John Florence Reminisces Vans Masters

Just like its adrenaline-driven waves, the surfing world is in for a hoard full of thrill and updates about the ongoing conjectures as the 2024 season approaches. Surfing activists who, over the past few months, have rallied against a proposed aluminum judges’ tower were defeated in the wake of new solutions. More so, the second news walks the surfing enthusiasts through Bethany Hamilton’s new milestone achieved in waves. 

The third piece of information walks the supporters through one of the professional American surfers, John John Florence’ Vans Masters surfing spree. 

Surfing tower confirmed for Paris Olympics

According to France 24 News, Paris Games chief, Tony Estanguet, confirmed the construction of the surfing tower for the Olympics, despite the International Surf Association’s proposal for alternative judging methods.

“The ISA proposal included judging the competition remotely, with live images shot from land, water and drones,” the ISA said. “Subsequently the French Polynesian government decided to go forward with a plan to build a new aluminum tower on the reef.”

Estanguet cited technical and security concerns, emphasizing the need to proceed urgently to meet deadlines. Polynesian leader Moetai Brotherson supported the decision, aiming to complete the aluminum tower by May 13 for a World Surf League event ahead of the Olympics.

The move follows a thorough evaluation, ensuring the feasibility of the project amid technical challenges and security considerations. The decision aligns with local consensus and aims for progress ahead of upcoming events.

Bethany Hamilton’s Pipe Masters spree

Bethany Hamilton, a resilient shark attack survivor and a mother of four embodies courage at Pipe Masters this year. She recently took to her handle and added a new post on her account showcasing her gratitude towards the love and support she has got till now from her digital family. 

Reflecting on the event, she expressed, “It was monumental for female surfing! The ladies rocked it!!! I’m proud of myself and all of the amazing women who tried and didn’t let their fears hold them back. I can imagine my life to be a life of simplicity if I let my fears lead me. But I choose to try. I choose to face my fears. I trust that God’s plan is better than mine.” 

She ended her encomium by penning, “You can face your fears too.”

Despite the event not aligning with her expectations, Hamilton found meaning beyond the waves, encapsulating the journey of triumph and tribulations.

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 Along with Hamiltion, John John Florence new updates another layer of excitement among supporters.

John John Florence Dominates with Thrilling Performance on Instagram

The 2023 Vans Pipe Masters Pipeline delivered some solid thrill to its spectators. Along similar lines, on the last day of the event, Hawaii’s John John Florence and Moana Jones Wong took home first-place trophies.

Interestingly, as John John Florence concluded the Pipe Masters on a great note, he took to his Instagram handle to share his incredible spree with his fandom. In the video, the surfer can be seen paddling his way through giant barrels with absolute finesse. In the caption, he penned, “Last week’s run of waves.”

Interestingly, not only John John Florence, but his brother Nathan Florence also graced his presence at the Vans Pipe Masters. The Florence brothers dominated the event through their incredible spree. However, Eimeo Czermak suffered some serious injuries while paddling the waves, as Nathan Florence in his vlog mentioned, “Stoked, surfed three heats together, all the bros. Eimeo, at the end of the heat, hurt his neck or did something and got carried up on a stretcher so our fourth brother in our heat, we really hope he’s okay. We’re gonna check on him.” With this, while Czermak sets on road to recovery, Florence brothers ended their season with rather on a good note.

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