The Surf City El Salvador ISA World Masters Surfing Championship 2024 was an unforgettable event, marked by passion, talent, and the legacy of the world’s best surfers over 40. Held on the stunning waves of El Sunzal, the championship brought together legendary athletes from different generations, offering a thrilling spectacle that culminated in a historic final day.
Defending champions from Hawaii secured the silver team medal thanks to an impressive performance in the women’s categories. Australia claimed the bronze, and France, in a milestone, won its first Masters team medal, taking copper. This thrilling conclusion showcased the camaraderie and passionate competition characteristic of ISA championships.
Brazil shines in men’s and women’s divisions
Brazil led the way in five of the six divisions, with an outstanding performance spearheaded by Diego Rosa, who won the gold medal in the Men’s Masters (40+) category. Rosa triumphed in a closely contested final against Gilbert Brown from Costa Rica and Hira Teriinatoofa from Tahiti, cementing his name in Masters surfing history. Other standout Brazilians included Roberta Borges and Jojó de Olivença, who earned silver in the Women’s Kahunas (+60) and Men’s Grand Masters (+50) categories, respectively. Andrea Lopes and Jacqueline Silva took bronze in the Women’s Grand Masters and Masters.
Rosa’s powerful style, as he expressed pride in representing Brazil and gratitude to his team and federation, was key in overcoming tough competitors. Gilbert Brown gave the Brazilian a significant challenge, coming close to the gold in an exciting finish. The Costa Rican took silver, while Teriinatoofa, a two-time ISA World Surfing Games champion, finished with the bronze.
Hawaii dominates women’s divisions
Hawaii was the undisputed leader in the women’s categories, winning gold medals across all three divisions. Becky Benson, Rochelle Ballard, and Melanie Bartels represented three generations of Hawaiian surfing, each crowned world champion in her respective category. Benson, who began her ISA career over 52 years ago, became the first Women’s Kahunas world champion, proudly winning the gold medal and expressing gratitude for the support received throughout her career.
Rochelle Ballard also shone, maintaining a flawless performance in the Women’s Grand Masters category. Known for her commitment to the sport, she expressed pride in being part of this generation and advancing women’s surfing.
Meanwhile, Melanie Bartels, representing the new generation of Hawaiian surfers, claimed her first WMSC world title. Bartels faced experienced rivals but excelled with great skill on El Sunzal’s waves. With scores of 8.67 and 7.93 in the final, Melanie demonstrated impressive prowess, taking the gold and solidifying her place in Masters world surfing.
France’s first gold and Scott Schindler’s story
Eric Graciet made history by winning the first Masters gold medal for France in the Men’s Kahunas category. With a dominant performance, Graciet surpassed surfing legends such as Rodney Baldwin (Australia) and Allen Sarlo (USA), who finished second and third, respectively. This victory celebrates Graciet’s talent and highlights the growth of Masters surfing in France, positioning it as a strong international competitor.
Australian surfer Scott Schindler achieved his first world title in the Men’s Grand Masters category, leaving a lasting legacy for Australia by facing competitors like Jojó de Olivença (Brazil) and Pablo Díaz (Puerto Rico). Schindler maintained control with high scores and a solid performance, winning the gold in an exciting final.
Fernando Aguerre’s vision for masters surfing
Fernando Aguerre, president of the ISA, celebrated the championship’s success and highlighted El Sunzal as an ideal host location: “This championship shows the diversity of surfing and the importance of staying connected to the sport. Many young surfers are now Masters surfers, and that is the beauty of surfing,” Aguerre noted.
With an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendly competition, the 2024 WMSC brought together legends and new icons of Masters surfing in an event that not only showcased talent but also emphasized brotherhood and mutual respect. Aguerre thanked El Salvador and all participants for making this championship a memorable gathering.
