The 2019 Rip Curl Pro GromSearch International Final is about to kick off for another year, bringing 20 of the best 17-and-under junior surfers from around the globe together to compete in the punchy beach break of Playa Hermosa in Costa Rica, USA.
The International Final is a culmination the Rip Curl GromSearch Series, held regionally around the globe every year. Each regional Series is completed with a Regional Final – the winners of each Regional Final then have the opportunity to compete in the International Final.
“Each year we choose a new locational for the International Final,”
“The goal is to provide a platform for grommets to test their skills in different waves around the world, and gain experience in a higher level of competition.” - Mark Flanagan, GromSearch Contest Director
Only a few days out from the start of competition, the forecast for swell is looking solid and Playa Hermosa will be offering up steep sections and challenging barrels that will offer a great platform for each athlete to showcase their versatility and talent in bigger, more powerful surf.
Former GromSearch International Final Champion and QS surfer Leilani McGonagle was born and raised in Costa Rica, and will act as the Event Host. Throughout the waiting period she will make calls on conditions, and will aim to get the competitors into the best surf on offer over the four days.
“I’m really excited to welcome 20 of the world’s best junior surfers to my home,” says Leilani. “It’s a beautiful place with some of the best waves in the world, and I think it’s the perfect place for them to get some experience in a serious competition with solid swell.
