WSL cancels Sunset Open, Jaws, and the Santa Cruz Pro

Citing the Covid surge, the latest news from the WSL: As a result of Hawaii's suspension of all surfing competitions until further notice, the upcoming Championship Tour event, the Sunset Open - scheduled for January 19 - 28, 2021 - and the Big Wave Jaws Championship Pe'ahi have been canceled.

The World Surf League has also decided to postpone the Santa Cruz Pro, which had been scheduled for February 2 - 12, 2021. 

The decision to postpone the Santa Cruz Pro, the last planned event of the US leg of the Championship Tour, is based primarily on the surge of COVID-19 cases in California.

The postponement is also heavily influenced by the length of time our athletes have been away from home, and by the complexities of global travel during this pandemic, which would have caused significant logistical challenges for athletes and staff to travel home and return to California for the event.

- SOURCE: WSL

Latest press release from Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism:

STATEMENT ON SURF CONTESTS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

HONOLULU: Following many discussions with health and natural resource leaders of the State to find a way forward for future surf contests in Hawaii, we have determined that the State will be suspending surf competitions at this time. 

The public health and safety of our communities, contestants, spectators and guests is first and foremost in this decision. Unlike other professional and amateur events held on private property, the enforcement of crowds and large gatherings on public property will be challenging. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism consulted with the Department of Health, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and the Governor’s office in making this decision.

We respectfully ask for your patience, understanding and cooperation in these very challenging times as we all find the way forward together during this global pandemic. 

 - Charlene Chan for the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism