The final heat of the Gold Coast Pro wasn’t your typical competition. Instead, it transformed into a legendary exhibition, with a combined 24 World Titles paddling out for a dream session. Surfing royalty Kelly Slater (USA) shared the lineup with Snapper locals and fellow World Champions Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), Mick Fanning (AUS), Joel Parkinson (AUS), and Mark Occhilupo (AUS).
The exhibition serving as a tribute to Slater, the 11-time World Champion and four-time Gold Coast Pro winner. The shore erupted as the five surfing icons traded perfect waves, showcasing their signature manoeuvres and tearing apart Snapper Rocks. The energy was electric, with thousands of fans packing the beach and even wading into the water, creating an atmosphere that rivalled the biggest CT final.
“That was so much fun,” said Gilmore after the session. “Parko gave me that good one, and it was just incredible to see these guys out here doing their thing.”
Slater, ever the gracious champion, acknowledged the electric crowd. “Steph definitely beat all four of us,” he said with a laugh. “It’s amazing to see this turnout and the passion surfing brings to the Gold Coast. That was a truly special experience.”
The exhibition heat was a fitting end to a remarkable day, showcasing the sport’s return to the Championship Tour and all of the action that took place earlier in the day as part of the challenger series.
