Margaret River Pro Faces Weather Delays After First Day of Competition

The World Surf League's Margaret River Pro event commenced on April 16, 2024, completing its first day of heats before facing an uncertain competition schedule due to a forecast of challenging surf conditions. The event is scheduled to run until April 26.

Event Start and Initial Results

The competition began on Thursday, April 16, at surf breaks in Margaret River, Western Australia. Organizers completed 28 overlapping heats on the first day.

Three surfers advanced by winning their Round 1 heats:

• Men's Competition: Australian wildcards Jacob Willcox and Jack Thomas advanced.
• Women's Competition: Canadian surfer Erin Brookes advanced, defeating Australian competitor Stephanie Gilmore.

Weather Forecast and Competition Schedule

Daily decisions on whether to hold heats are based on swell and wind conditions. Forecasters have indicated that the coming week presents significant challenges for competition.

Kevin Wallace, head forecaster at Surfline, stated that the forecast features large swell and onshore winds, which may prevent competition for much of the week.

Wallace indicated there may be short periods over the weekend of April 20-21 where conditions could allow for heats, citing a possible window on Friday morning and potential improvement on Saturday afternoon, but noted this is not guaranteed.

WSL commentator Felicity Palmateer stated that wind will be the primary factor affecting whether competition can proceed.

Based on the current forecast, heats are likely to be held sporadically this weekend and are unlikely during the coming week, with a possibility of resuming next weekend if conditions improve.

Event Logistics and Viewing

The event is held at either Main Break or The Box in Margaret River. Attendance is free.

Parking and Transport

• Free parking is available at Riflebutts Reserve on weekdays and McLeods Paddock on weekends.
• A free shuttle bus service runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Additional Activities

• The WSL and Here Comes The Sun festival will present a concert headlined by the band Lime Cordiale at 3 Oceans Winery on Saturday, April 25.

Broadcast

• The event can be watched live on the streaming platform 7PLUS.