Characterised by a good mix of reef, sand or combinations of both, the KwaZulu Natal North Coast or Dolphin Coast boasts a treasure chest of semi-secret spots known to produce world class, hollow, left and right-handers. Surf spots along the Dolphin Coast work best on either east or south swells, the left-handers preferring an easterly cyclone generated swell in summer while the right-handers will fire off southerly swells in winter. Here’s what to expect at each of the mobile event venues during this year’s Mr Price Pro: SURFERS/WILLARDS A fast, hollow right-hander that breaks just off the rock north of Ballito Main Beach. Works best in a southwest swell and on a low tide. Watch out for the rips and prepare for constant paddling on a big swell.
WHAT: Mr Price Pro Ballito is a PRIME ASP World Tour surfing event
WHERE: Willard Beach, Ballito, KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
WHEN: July 2 – 8 (7am – 4pm)
WHO: The event is open to the top 90 surfers in the world and six wildcard surfers. The top South African contenders include the former event champion Jordy Smith (2010), Travis Logie, Shaun Joubert, Dale Staples, Brandon Jackson, Rudy Palmboom and Greg Emslie.
Vans Triple Crown of Surfing champion and Mr Price Pro Ballito 2011 runner-up Hawaiian John John Florence will be out to win gold in the 2012 edition of the Mr Price Pro Ballito.
PRIZEMONEY: US$250,000 / R2million – First place prize US$40,000 / R320,000
SPONSORS: Mr Price, the Kwadukuza Municipality
MEDIA PARTNER: Independent Newspapers – The Daily News
CHAMPION: Pat Gudauskas, California, USA
Swell Forecast
Location
Mr Ballito Pro Location
