After three Lay Days at Itacoatiara, where the riders had the chance to relax and enjoy the sunny days in Niterói, they refocused and prepared for another thrilling day of competition. The anticipation was high as the Top 16 bodyboarders were set to compete for the first time in this event.
With a new swell arriving overnight at Praia de Itacoatiara, solid conditions were expected early in the morning. The competition resumed with some of the world’s best bodyboarders from the Men’s division. The forecast predicted 6 to 9-foot waves with just a slight side-shore breeze, making for an easy call to start the competition. The only challenge for the riders would be managing the rip currents.
The day began with Round 3 of the competition, where the Top 16 seeded riders faced off against bodyboarders who had advanced from the earlier rounds. This non-elimination round allowed riders to take risks, as even those finishing 3rd and 4th would move on to the fourth round. With this in mind, the competitors knew they could push their limits and showcase their most daring maneuvers, knowing that even a lower placement would still keep them in the running.
In these pumping conditions, with large ramps providing opportunities for numerous off-the-lip maneuvers, the riders delivered high scores throughout the day. The first standout score wasn’t an aerial move but a barrel by Pierre Louis Costes. “I was not expecting to get barreled today” admitted the Frenchman and two-time World Champion after winning his heat with a total score of 16.95 points (8.50 + 7.75), advancing directly to Round 5.
Excitement continued as the competition progressed, with more excellent scores soon following. In heat number 5, South African Tristan Roberts executed a perfect air reverse, scoring 9 points, which, combined with his backup score of 5.75 points, gave the 2019 and 2022 World Champion a total of 14.75 points. The next heat saw Ethan Capdeville discover a gem of a wave, earning a deep barrel on Itacoatiara’s left, followed by an El Rollo, resulting in a near-perfect score of 9.50 points, adding to his 7.25 points for a total of 16.75 points.
After a short break for reseeding, the competition resumed with the only elimination round of the day, featuring man-on-man heats. While many riders struggled to find two solid scores, the sixth heat of the repechage round brought another near-perfect performance. Peruvian Micheel Yancee, the current Junior Men World Champion, known as “Pirpo,” scored a 9.75 for a spectacular barrel, the highest score of the day and the event thus far. Adding a 7-point ride, he matched Ethan’s total from the previous round with 16.75 points. “The wave was amazing. I dropped uncontrollably, but I kept thinking, ‘I have to make it,’ and I did” said Yancee after his heat win.
The repechage round saw intense competition and dramatic moments, as riders battled to stay in the contest.
With the repechage round completed, the competition was called off for the day. Tomorrow promises another exciting day of competition in excellent conditions as the Itacoatiara Pro 2024 progresses into Round 5 with three-man heats, followed by Round 6’s anticipated man-on-man heats.
The IBC World Tour continues to highlight the best in bodyboarding, bringing together the top riders from around the globe to compete in some of the most iconic locations. The Itacoatiara Pro is a key event in the tour, known for its powerful waves and picturesque setting. As the competition progresses, the world will be watching to see who will emerge victorious and take home the coveted title.
Stay tuned to the IBC World Tour website and social media channels for live updates, results, and highlights from the Itacoatiara Pro 2024. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, the Itacoatiara Pro promises to deliver unforgettable moments and showcase the incredible talent and dedication of the bodyboarding community. Don’t miss out!
All photos by: TonyDAndrea
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