Summer of Surf Announces Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series: Elevating the Prestige of Global Surf Sports
August 13, 2024 – [Gold Coast, Queensland] – The iconic Summer of Surf has officially rebranded its premier race series to the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series, marking a transformative moment in the world of surf sports. This strategic rebranding is set to elevate the series to new heights, reflecting its ambitious vision of becoming a premier, truly global surf sports series.
The World Ocean Series will bring together the best surf sport athletes from across the globe, uniting them in a series of high-stakes competitions that celebrate the sport’s rich heritage while embracing its future. This rebranding represents a commitment to enhancing the event’s prestige and aligning it with the evolving landscape of international surf sports.
“Rebranding from Summer of Surf Series to the World Ocean Series is more than just a name change; it’s a bold step towards redefining the global surf sports experience,” said Trent Goulding, General Manager of World Ocean Series. “Our new name reflects our dedication to creating a world-class platform that not only highlights the incredible talent of athletes worldwide but also fosters a deeper connection to the oceans we cherish and protect. Looking at what we have achieved the past 12 or so years has been nothing short of exceptional. We look forward expanding year on year internationally and continuing our momentum”
The World Ocean Series welcomes a new platform and strategy to expand the lineup of events, incorporating diverse surf conditions and venues that showcase the unique characteristics of different coastal regions. This global approach ensures that athletes and fans alike can experience the breadth and beauty of surf sports in various iconic settings around the world.
Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series 5-year vision includes:
- Global Reach: Competitions held in renowned surf destinations across multiple continents, providing a truly international platform for athletes.
- Enhanced Prestige: A revamped format with increased prize purses, cutting-edge event production, and elevated media coverage to amplify the visibility and significance of the series.
- Sustainability Focus: Commitment to both environmental stewardship with initiatives designed to promote ocean conservation, keeping our beaches pristine as well as keeping athletes at their best to have the skills to save lives and keeping our beaches safe.
- Fan Engagement: Innovative ways to connect fans with the action, including interactive digital experiences and enhanced live broadcasting.
The transition to the World Ocean Series is set to debut with its first premier event on the 1st – 3rd November at Alexandra Headland for the Shaw and Partners Hayden Kenny Classic, promising an exciting start to a new era of surf sports excellence. Surf sport athletes, fans, and industry stakeholders can look forward to a series that embodies the spirit of global camaraderie and competitive integrity.
World Ocean Series is proudly supported by Shaw and Partners Financial Services, Surf Life Saving Queensland, Race One Surf Craft and Paddles, The Lap Collective and presented by Summer of Surf Events Co.
For more information about the World Ocean Series, including event details and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.worldoceanseries.au.
2024/25 Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series Tentative Event Schedule*:
1st-2nd November 2024 – Shaw and Partners Hayden Kenny Classic 10,000
6th-7th December 2024 – Shaw and Partners Swansea Belmont Classic 10,000
20th & 21st December 2024 – SLSSA Glenelg Sprint Challenge 7,000
17th-18th January 2025 – Shaw and Partners Manly Open 10,000
24th & 25th January 2025 – Murphy Homes Maroochy Classic 7,000
21st-22nd February 2025 – Shaw and Partners Shannon Eckstein Ironman Classic Double Header 10,000
Additional Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series 5,000 events to be announced ASAP.
2024/25 Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series U11 – U14 Tentative Event Schedule*:
3rd November 2024 – Shaw and Partners Hayden Kenny Classic
8th December 2024 – Race One World Youth Championships
* Events subject to final council approvals.