WA Government secures the Margaret River Pro’s future until at least 2028
With the Margaret River Pro kicking off yesterday morning, today the WA Government has announced a new multi-year sponsorship agreement with the World Surf League, securing its place on the Championship Tour until at least 2028.
The event has been held down south in a variety of forms since 1985, with the WA Government coming on as a major backer since 1999, and this year marks the 10th edition it’s been part of the World Championship Tour.
“Western Australia has built a strong reputation as a world-class host of major sporting events, and it’s iconic competitions like the Margaret River Pro that further build on that,” said WA Premier Roger Cook in a statement.
“The continued presence of this important fixture in the surfing calendar is a testament to Margaret River’s reputation in the surfing world.”
The event only continues to grow in stature, attracting thousands of visitors to the region every year and injecting more than $8 million in the South West economy.
“We know how important this event is for our local economy here in the region, bringing in fantastic job opportunities and providing valuable boosts to local businesses and operators,” said Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie.
“I’m stoked that some of the world’s best surfers – including our own home-grown talent – along with the thousands of visitors this event attracts, will be coming back to Margs for the next four years.”
Margaret River local Jack Robinson won the 2022 Margaret River Pro last year, and he’s set to compete alongside the likes of Kelly Slater, John John Florence and last year’s winner Gabriel Medina in the coming days.
The women’s side of the draw kicked off yesterday in small but fun conditions, with current ratings leader Caitlin Simmers impressing in her first heat and local wildcard Bronte Macauley being relegated to the knock-out round.
Find out more about the Margaret River Pro and the latest results via the WSL website.
Image Credit: World Surf League