The Red Bull Airborne series returns to the main stage in 2020 and the Australian leg will be held as part of the 2020 Corona Open Gold Coast from March 26 – April 5.
Red Bull’s aerial-based surfing competition is giving Queensland locals a chance to compete amongst the top aerial surfers in the world, with a spot in the main event being allocated to the winner of the local trials set to run this weekend (either Saturday or Sunday – exact date will be decided later in the week, depending on conditions).
The top surfer from this weekend’s trials event (1) will secure themselves a place in the main event in March where they will go head to head with some of the best aerial surfers in the world such as Jack Freestone (AUS), Noah Deane (AUS), Italo Ferreira (BRA), Gabriel Medina (BRA) and Felipe Toledo (BRA).
Last year’s trials event winner Aaron Kelly (Noosa, QLD) has put his name in the draw once again and is looking forward to throwing some aerial manoeuvres this weekend.
“I was pretty lucky to be selected by Noosa Boardriders Club to compete last year – I ended up winning and got into the main comp,” said Kelly. “The conditions at Duranbah were pretty similar to my home break (Sunshine Beach). I’m excited about the event this weekend – I’m not a competitive surfer, but these air events are something that I like.”
This unique contest was co-developed by former WSL Championship Tour surfer Josh Kerr (AUS) in a bid to provide surfers and fans with an exciting new spectacle.
“The Airborne Series is all about going big,” said Kerr. “The surfers get to use their creativity and commitment to showcase their biggest aerial moves in a really fun competition format.”
“The qualifying event gives the locals a shot at joining the big names during the main event at snapper where it’s broadcast worldwide. Looks like we will have some solid waves this weekend for the qualifier – I’m expecting some big airs with solid sections to give everyone a shot!”
For more information on the format, scoring and event details head to www.surfingqueensland.com.au.
