After a hugely successful event in 2018 and many years before it, the Burleigh Pro will return in 2019 better than ever – renamed as the Gold Coast Open presented by Flight Centre. The event is a World Surf League (WSL) QS 1,500 rated event and will run over 6 full days from the 7th to the 12th of May.
Surfing Queensland CEO Adam Yates is excited about the name change.
“Re-naming the Burleigh Pro allows for countless new possibilities,” said Yates. “The potential for the event to grow into something much larger and well-known is sure to become evident with the re-brand. With the increase in WSL Qualifying Series rating points from 1,000 to a 1,500, as well as the inclusion of the WSL Pro Junior event, skateboarding event and live music, there’s potential for the Gold Coast Open to become internationally renowned.”
Previous winners of the Gold Coast Open presented by Flight Centre (formerly Burleigh Pro) include names like Taj Burrow, Julian Wilson, Dimity Stoyle, Owen Wright, Kobie Enright, Mitch Crews and Isabella Nichols. The event is known for attracting surfers from all corners of the globe including Indonesia, North America, France, Brazil and Japan.
Previous event winner and 2018 World Surf League (WSL) number 2 ranked surfer in the world Julian Wilson (Coolum Beach, QLD) holds fond memories of the event.
“Burleigh is one of the jewels of the East Coast and I think it’s really cool that there’s a QS there,” said Wilson. “That year when I did it and had success was a nice jolt to kick my year off in the right direction.”
Queensland’s Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the Gold Coast was world-renowned for its surf breaks and beach lifestyle.
“Burleigh is a wonderful home for this event, and the name change will bring the global appeal of one of Australia’s most recognisable tourism destinations with it,” Ms Jones said.
“Hosting the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games cemented our position as a world-class event host and I look forward to welcoming talented surfers from around the world to the 2019 Gold Coast Open.”
This year will again host an open Men’s and Women’s division, as well as the introduction of the Pro Junior Men’s and Women’s event. As an added value, attendees can look forward to other attractions including live bands, skateboarding event and Mother’s Day sunrise yoga sessions.
To stay up to date with any news regarding the 2019 Gold Coast Open presented by Flight Centre, head to www.surfingqueensland.com.au.
Crowds on Final Day at the 2018 Flight Centre Burleigh Pro
