WSL returns to NIAS Indonesia after 20-year hiatus

After an almost 20-year hiatus, The World Surf League (WSL) has arrived back on the beautiful Indonesian Island of Nias for the Nias Pro Men’s and Women’s Qualifying Series (QS) 1,000 event.

It was the year 2000 that the last rated WSL event ran here, The Deep Jungle Open QS event.

The heat draw in 2000 was amazing to look back on and included Joel Parkinson, Travis Logie, Mick Fanning, Mikey Picon and even WSL  Commissioner Kieren Perrow – Perrow made the Semi’s while Sasha Stocker won that event.

WSL Asia representative Steve Robertson commented on the return by saying –

“The WSL Asia region is all about the World’s Most Perfect Waves so obviously Nias fits that category – it is unquestionably one of the world’s greatest right-hand point waves and surf fans across the world can tune in for an amazing webcast these next few days.” 

“We need to thank Tipi Jabrik and Tim Hain for their efforts in bringing a WSL event back to Nias – It is a special place in the world of surfing and we’re excited to be here.”

Contest Director Tipi Jabrik surfed in heat 1 of the year 2000 event, eliminated by rogue Aussies of the time Lee Winkler and Chris Davidson.

“ I’m really proud to be back here after almost 20 years and it’s due to the fantastic support of the South Nias Government along with Indonesia Tourism Ministry.

“All the surfers, international and Indonesian’s, are enjoying the chance to compete at this great wave and the local surfers and community are all very involved in making this a great success.”

A pumping swell forecast has everyone excited and ready for some big barrels and extreme on face surfing in the coming days as we decide Men’s and Women’s champions of the Nias Pro 2018.

Live broadcasts can be watched daily at www.worldsurfleague.com