The SLO CAL Open is currently underway at Morro Bay, situated next to Morro Rock, throughout the weekend. Over 100 surfers are vying for a spot in next year’s World Surf League championship tour. El Segundo’s Shane Frontino wasn’t aware he’d be competing in Morro Bay until just before the event. “I was an alternate, […]
The SLO CAL Open is currently underway at Morro Bay, situated next to Morro Rock, throughout the weekend.
Over 100 surfers are vying for a spot in next year’s World Surf League championship tour.
El Segundo’s Shane Frontino wasn’t aware he’d be competing in Morro Bay until just before the event.
“I was an alternate, and I got fortunate because someone didn’t make it,” Frontino shared.
Having surfed competitively since he was 12, Frontino describes this event as challenging yet rewarding.
“The wave is a bit gentler near the rock, making it enjoyable to take it down a notch. Other waves are much sharper, demanding more effort and thoughtful line choices,” Frontino noted.
This 1,000-point competition by the World Surf League is brought to you by the countywide tourism entity Visit SLO CAL and organized by Surfing for Hope.
“Whether it’s Surfing for Hope or Skating for Hope, our mission focuses on assisting those coping with cancer and other illnesses, utilizing the beauty of surfing and skateboarding,” remarked Bob Voglin, Ambassador of Hope for Surfing for Hope.
Voglin shared his extensive background with the sport.
“Surfing has been a crucial aspect of my life since I was 10 years old and continues to be as I approach 75,” Voglin stated.
Frontino aspires to follow in those footsteps.
“I aim to chase my passion, which is surfing,” said Frontino.
As per Visit SLO CAL, travel expenditures in 2023 generated $110 million in local tax revenue, with events like this one playing a role in that growth.
“During our visit to Morro Bay this morning, we stopped at Buttercup Bakery. It was fantastic,” reflected Paige Rogge from San Diego. “Their breakfast burrito was incredible. We explored SLO yesterday and enjoyed the farmers market. It was a blast.”
Frontino expresses gratitude for the opportunity to compete.
“It’s a well-regarded event with numerous talented surfers, making it challenging, but I made the journey and aimed to do my best, and I succeeded,” Frontino stated.
The event concludes on Sunday, with activities commencing at 8 a.m. throughout the weekend.
