PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
21 October 2025
The event was presented by the City of Cape Town and supported by SMTH Shapes, Reef Wetsuits, Advanced Health Private Day Hospitals, Jack Black Beer, and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Long Beach, Cape Town – the dust has finally settled on an outstanding event. The 2025 South African Masters Surfing Championships had it all: small glassy conditions, icy water, spirited performances, solid and windy surf on Finals Day, and an incredible vibe throughout. The three-day live stream, produced by Open Plan Pictures, was a major success and elevated the event experience.
Find out more about Open Plan Pictures HERE.
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Event comments –
“It was a really well-run event. Big shout-out to the contest director, judges, beach crew, and live stream team for taking it to the next level. We had three days of consistent waves and finished with great waves. Training in all conditions paid off; awesome to win at my home break!” – Dr Roxy Davis, Women’s O35 winner (Ilembe)
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Roxy Davis, victory chair © Keahlo Van Gysen
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Location:
Long Beach, Kommetjie, Cape Town. Arguably, the most consistent wave in the deep south.
Conditions:
Surf ranged from small but highly contestable to pumping on Finals Day, with several 9s and 10-point rides scored.
Event Vibe:
Team spirit, camaraderie, cheering and positivity defined the tournament. The Jack Black Taproom (Jack Black Taproom) hosted a lively opening function, and the Camel Rock Restaurant (Camel Rock Restaurant) wrapped things up with a festive closing night.
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Event Comments –
“What a well-run and exciting event. One of the best SA Champs ever. Congrats to the surfers and the organising crew.” Gareth Sepp, back-to-back O55 Men’s champ (Buffalo City)
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Competition Highlights
Greg Emslie, Buffalo City, © Keahlo Van Gysen
Surfers who scored above 16 points in their heats or finals included:
Heather Clark (UGU): Women’s O35 Semi 2 – 16.00 (10.00 + 6.00)
Clinton Gravett (BC): Men’s O35 Final – 16.17 (9.17 + 6.00)
Tyrell Johnson (BC): Men’s O40 Semi 1 – 16.00 (8.83 + 7.17)
Tristan Johnson (BC): Men’s O45 Semi 1 – 16.66 (9.83 + 6.83)
Greg Emslie (BC): Men’s O45 Semi 2 – 17.67 (9.17 + 6.59)
Warwick Heny (BC): Men’s O50 Final – 16.40 (9.60 + 6.80)
David Malherbe (BC): Men’s O60 Round 1 – 17.50 (8.83 + 8.67)
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Herbie, going for broke © Keahlo Van Gysen
Event comments –
“An awesome event, well done to the winners, and hats off to Cape Town Surf Riders.” David Malherbe, O60 Men’s Champ.
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Masters Cup Team Results
Buffalo City claimed the Masters Cup.
2nd: Cape Town Surfriders
3rd: Cape Winelands
Buffalo City, victory cheer © Keahlo Van Gysen
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Event comments –
“The event was an incredible success, from the infrastructure and judging to the launch of our new live feed system, which was a massive hit. The level of surfing and the names that showed up were outstanding, and finals day delivered all-time Long Beach conditions. A huge thank you to Jack Black for their support. We’re proud of what we achieved and look forward to seeing the event grow even more in the future.” Liam Wood, President, Cape Town Surf Riders
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Mickey Duffus, 3rd place finish O60 Mens, representing
Cape Town Surf Riders © Keahlo Van Gysen
Webcast Review Links
Opening Day Recap – Friday
Day Two Recap – Saturday
Finals Day Recap – Sunday
All heat results are available on LiveHeats.
High-resolution photos are available for media.
Andrew Lange, UGU © Keahlo Van Gysen
Media Enquiries
Distributed by: Truth Collective
Craig Jarvis
Email: craig@truthcollective.co.za
Tel: 082 376 4443
For Surfing South Africa enquiries:
Reza De Nicker, General Manager, Surfing South Africa
Email: reza@surfingsouthafrica.co.za
Tel: 079 373 1964
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