Press Release 15 November 2012

Huge crowds at Manly Beach enjoyed a spectacular inaugural Australian Open of Surfing earlier this year.

Sydney's famous Manly Beach will host the Australian Open of Surfing in February 2014.

Sydney – November 15, 2012 - The inaugural event held in February 2012 which included surfing, skateboarding, art and concerts attracted crowds of more than 160,000 people to Manly Beach and, won the support of the fans, competitors and stakeholders.

Organisers have confirmed the event will proceed with backing from key event partners Hurley, Billabong, the New South Wales Government, Manly Council and the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). Organisers have confirmed the next event in February 2014 to meet the significant logistical requirements.

“The event captured the vision of Hurley, Billabong and other key stakeholders, creating a truly amazing event for not only the community, spectators, athletes and local business owners; but it also elevated the beach youth lifestyle to a level never before seen in Australia,” said Jason Haynes, General Manager for Hurley Australia.

“ The Australian Open of Surfing was an incredible event in 2012. The event ticked all the boxes; great athletes, perfect weather, amazing crowds and a fun family vibe in a perfect setting at Manly Beach. Hurley is looking forward in continuing its support for another great event in 2014.” said Haynes.

"It's fair to say the scale and success of the inaugural 2012 Australian Open of Surfing was beyond what anyone expected," said Scott Wallace, Billabong Vice President, New Media and Strategic Partnership's. "There are not many new events that immediately attract 60,000 plus people for a single day's competition.

"The reality of an event of this scale is that you need good planning and you need good backers. The event committee has taken the decision to push the Australian Surfing Open into 2014 to ensure we meet the expectations of the community, the fans attending, and continue to attract world-class surfers at a world-class event,"" said Scott. "We're delighted to have the support of both the Manly Council and State Government in that vision for the Australian Open of Surfing."

"The Australian Open of Surfing in 2012 set a new bench mark for a professional surfing contest in Australia. We look forward to the event returning in 2014.Surfing NSW is in full support of the decision to ensure the benchmark set in 2012 continues into the future" said Mark Windon CEO Surfing NSW.

“The inaugural Australian Open of Surfing was great for the sport of surfing and welcomed by competitors and spectators alike,” said ASP Australasia General Manager Dane Jordan.

“To ensure this success is continued long term the Australian Open of Surfing will return in 2014 as part of the ASP Calendar."

Steve Robertson
Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Australasia
Media Director
steve@surfingaustralia.com
+61407706874
www.aspworldtour.com