Stop number four on the 2019 World Surf League Championship Tour, has been called on today in four to six-foot conditions at Main Break, with surfers only arriving in Margaret River a few days after competing in the previous CT event in Bali.
World Champions Stephanie Gilmore and Kelly Slater eye their first ever event wins in Western Australia
Fresh off her 30th CT event win at the recent Corona Bali Protected, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) comes to Margaret River leading the 2019 World rankings. The seven-time WSL Champion owns hardware from almost every location from around the planet, but Margaret River is one stop she has yet to win. After a victory less than a week ago, Gilmore hopes this year will be hers at the Margaret River Pro.
“West is best because, I mean, it’s beautiful,” Gilmore said. “Look around at the coastline, the scenery, the surf, the landscape, the food – it’s all amazing. It’s such a crispy and fresh place to come and rejuvenate and get adventurous looking for waves. Winning in Bali was great for a number of reasons but mainly because I’m back leading the rankings, which is huge for my confidence. I lost my lead after a few average results at the first two events so I’m really happy to be back on top and will hopefully hold onto that spot for as long as I can.”
With 55 CT victories to his name, 11-time WSL Champion Kelly Slater (USA)is undoubtedly the most winningest surfer in history. One event trophy that continues to elude him is a Margaret River Pro title. After his best result of the season so far in Bali, a reinvigorated Slater eyes off a historical win this year in Western Australia.
MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA – MAY 28: Current 2019 Jeep Leader and Seven-time WSL Champion Stephanie Gilmore of Australia speaks at the 2019 Margaret River Pro Press Session at Margaret River on May 28, 2019 in Western Australia, Australia.(Photo by Matt Dunbar/WSL via Getty Images).
MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA – MAY 28: 11-time WSL Champion Kelly Slater of the United States speaks at the 2019 Margaret River Pro Press Session at Margaret River on May 28, 2019 in Western Australia, Australia.(Photo by Matt Dunbar/WSL via Getty Images).
