The strongest competition looks to be between USA teammates Liv Stone and Faith Lennox in Women’s Stand 1. The pair went one and two in 2020 and appear destined to do so again, claiming near equal heat totals today.
As an adopted local to Southern California, Stone, who is defending back-to-back gold medals, is especially excited about the possibility of competing in the Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
“It would be so huge for me if surfing was in the Paralympics,” Stone said. “It will be in our backyard in LA 2028.
“We’ve just been fighting so hard, all Team USA, all the countries have been rallying together and pushing really hard for it to be in the Paralympics because this is such an elite event. It would be so cool for the Paralympics to see this and how incredible each and every one of our athletes are.”
ISA President Fernando Aguerre said:
“Seeing fresh faces challenging these established champions is both exciting and rewarding. This shows that the para surfing movement continues to grow and develop around the world.
“I’m so happy to see the stoke amongst the teams and athletes, young and old. Their commitment and determination are super strong and just reminds us that anything is possible in life!
“Seeing the diversity, performance and growth of the sport, I have no doubt that Para Surfing would add enormous value to the LA 2028 Paralympic Games.”
Competition will resume at Pismo Beach Pier with Men’s Stand 3 at 7am, Tuesday, December 6.