MARGARET RIVER — Competition at the Margaret River Pro has been paused for two consecutive days, with World Surf League (WSL) officials holding out for a more powerful swell expected to arrive on Tuesday.
The event kicked off on Saturday, marking the opening of the 10-day competition window. Both the men’s and women’s opening rounds were completed in 4-6ft surf at Main Break. However, conditions declined on Sunday, prompting organizers to halt proceedings in anticipation of stronger waves and better winds mid-week.
WSL deputy commissioner Renato Hickel confirmed the decision on Sunday, citing poor surf quality.
“After reviewing the conditions, we decided to call the event off for the day,” Hickel said. “The swell has dropped since early morning. The Cape Naturaliste buoy showed a steady decline, and we’re seeing very weak, inconsistent waves — 2-3ft at best.”
Hickel said the decision to wait was based on forecasts predicting a significant swell by Tuesday.
“We’re expecting a much bigger and more powerful swell, with a real possibility of running heats at The Box,” he said. “Fingers crossed.”
The Box in Sight
The Box, a heavy slab wave just north of Main Break, is known for producing deep barrels when conditions align. Local surf hero Jack Robinson had previously urged officials to utilize the wave during this year’s event.
“I think it’s calling for it, and I think it’s about time we ran there,” Robinson said Friday. “Everyone wants to see it, and it would be great to watch.”
High Stakes for Fitzgibbons and Willcox
When competition resumes, Australian veteran Sally Fitzgibbons will face a do-or-die situation in the elimination round. The 12-time tour winner and three-time world title runner-up needs a strong showing in Margaret River to survive the mid-season cut. She narrowly lost her opening heat on Saturday and now faces a tough matchup against Gold Coast Pro champion Bettylou Sakura Johnson and teenage local wildcard Willow Hardy.
On the men’s side, West Australian qualifier Jacob Willcox will be looking for redemption after failing to capitalize on his home break in the opening round. Willcox will compete against fellow Australian Ryan Callinan and Hawaii’s Barron Mamiya for a spot in the round-of-32.
The next official call on the event is scheduled for 7:00 a.m. Tuesday, with organizers closely monitoring conditions for a potential return to action.