As some would say, “You can’t stop the wave, but you can learn how to surf.” Thousands of people around the world dive into the ocean blue and paddle out on their surfboards to catch the ride of their lives – every day! Teams were formed in twenty-four countries to compete in the International Surfing Association World Championship. 

The competition took place on the waves of Santa Catalina, Panama. Arriving on April 28th, the teams lodged in the tiny surf town. The surfers competed as individuals, but also competed as a team to determine which top seven would compete in the ISA China Championship held annually in January on Harnan Island in the South China Sea.

The surf competition was strong throughout the week. Boards were broken in “The Points” - a strong current has been the site of many dangerous surfing accidents. The crowed ooh’d and ah’d for their favorite surfers.  

As the week came to an end, more Panamanians and tourists gathered to cheer on Santa Catalina’s own Oli Ganzalez, who made it into the Men’s Final Round.

When the finals bells sounded to end the competitions, the results showed:

Men’s Division:  
1st.    Shaun Joubert – Russia
2nd.    Oli Gonzalez – Panama
3rd.    Cristobal Del Col – Peru
4th.    Russell Molony – Australia

Women’s Division:
1st.    Dimity Stoyle – Australia
2nd.    Cody Klein – Australia
3rd.    Suelen Naraisa – Brazil
4th.    Ella Williams – New Zealand

Team Scores:

1st.    South Africa: 16,760 points
2nd.    Australia: 11,102 points
3rd.    Peru: 9,636 points
4th.    Brazil: 9,146 points
5th.    Panama: 7,946 points
6th.    Costa Rica: 7,678 points
7th.    Argentina: 7,422 points

As the tournament came to an end for all, others began preparing for the World Championship in China. While everyone is eagerly awaiting the next surf competition, grab a board and surf some waves on your own.  There are wonderful beaches all around the world that have waves for beginner, intermediate, and experienced surfers.  Be sure to tune into watch the winner take on their next location at the South China Sea.

Shelby Lewis is a member of the Youth Travel Blogging Mentorship Program

All photos courtesy and copyright Shelby Lewis