Surfers from 26 countries came to compete on Kontiki Beach in Netanya on January 18, 2019. The SEAT Pro Netanya was the first stop on the 2019 World Surf League European Qualifying Series.
Following five exciting days of action, Eithan Osborne of California claimed victory in the final bout against Tristan Guilbaud of France held in three- to four-foot surf in Israeli Mediterranean waters.
“This feels incredible,” Osborne said afterward. “My grandpa’s brother and uncles live here and my mom’s grandpa was from here so we have family ties here. It’s my second time visiting and I always have an incredible time.”
The first 30 minutes of the final saw a disappearing swell until a good set gave both surfers an opportunity to improve their scores.
Splitting the peak, Guilbaud went to his backhand on the left and locked in a couple of good turns for 5.43, while Osborne went right and unleashed a big first turn and a couple smaller ones for a 6.20 to reinforce his lead.
Guilbaud, who achieved his career-best result to date, said his powerful style of surfing suited the waves perfectly in Israel. He will be the man to beat when the European Qualifying Series continues early next month in the Canary Islands.
The SEAT Pro Netanya is supported by Israel Surfing Association, the city of Netanya, SEAT, Maccabi Israel, Otzma, the Olympic Committee of Israel, The Ministry of Culture and Sport, the Australian Embassy, FCS Israel, Tshuva Urban Renewal and others.
Fighting for Israel's truth
We cover what makes life in Israel so special — it's people. A non-profit organization, ISRAEL21c's team of journalists are committed to telling stories that humanize Israelis and show their positive impact on our world. You can bring these stories to life by making a donation of $6/month.
