Surfing at the Olympics Explained

Are you excited about Olympic surfing but unsure how the scoring works or what makes one ride stand out from another? Here’s a handy guide to help you understand the intricacies of Olympic surfing competition and scoring. 

 

Scoring

In Olympic surfing, competitors are judged based on their two best rides within an allotted time period, usually 30 minutes. Each ride is scored out of ten points, creating a possible heat total of twenty points. Achieving perfect tens is exceptionally rare, and a perfect score of twenty is even rarer. Most heats feature head-to-head competition with two surfers in the water, except for the opening round, which typically includes three surfers per heat.

 

 

Judging Criteria 

Rides are judged based on several key factors:

• Commitment and Degree of Difficulty: Judges look for surfers who demonstrate high levels of skill and take significant risks. 

• Innovative and Progressive Manoeuvres: Surfers are rewarded for performing new and advanced moves. 

• Variety of Manoeuvres: A diverse array of moves is essential for a high score. 

• Combination of Major Manoeuvres: Linking major moves together seamlessly boosts a surfer’s score.

• Speed, Power, and Flow: Maintaining high speed, demonstrating power, and achieving a smooth flow throughout the ride are crucial.

In summary, to score well, surfers need to perform fast, risky, and technically difficult moves in the steepest parts of the wave, without repeating the same moves too often. Conservative, slow, and safe surfing with little risk will result in lower scores. While incomplete moves (such as wipeouts) won’t add to the score, points aren’t deducted for the failed move, so any successful manoeuvres performed before the wipeout still count.

 

Athletes to Watch

Keep an eye out for some of the world’s top surfers who will be competing at the Olympics:

• John John Florence (USA): Known for his powerful and fluid style, Florence is a two-time world champion.

• Gabriel Medina (Brazil): A three-time world champion famed for his aerial manoeuvres and competitive edge.

• Carissa Moore (USA): The reigning gold medalist from the first-ever Olympic surfing event, Moore is celebrated for her consistency and innovative moves.

• Vahine Fierro (France): A local talent who recently won the WSL event at Teahupo'o, Fierro is known for her deep knowledge of the wave and exceptional skills.

 

Location and Dates

Olympic surfing events will take place at Teahupo'o in Tahiti, French Polynesia. This location is renowned for its powerful and challenging waves, making it an ideal spot to showcase the world's best surfers. The surfing competition is scheduled to run from July 27 to August 4, 2024. Keep these dates marked on your calendar so you don’t miss any of the thrilling action.

 

Controversy

The new judges' tower constructed at Teahupo'o has stirred some controversy. Critics argue that the structure, built to provide judges with the best possible view of the action, disrupts the natural beauty and environment of the iconic surf spot. Additionally, concerns have been raised about its impact on local marine life and the traditional landscape. While the International Surfing Association (ISA) assures that all environmental regulations have been followed and efforts have been made to minimise the ecological footprint, the debate continues among environmentalists, surfers, and locals.

 

 

General Information 

Surfing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, bringing a new level of excitement and visibility to the sport. The competition takes place on natural ocean waves, adding an element of unpredictability and showcasing surfers' ability to adapt to varying conditions. This dynamic environment highlights the athletes' skills and creativity, making it a thrilling event for spectators. By understanding how scoring works, knowing where and when to watch, and who the key athletes are, you can fully appreciate the drama and excitement of Olympic surfing. 

 

 

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