5 Photos: Quiksilver Festival Day 1

You really could not have drawn up a better first day for the Quiksilver Festival. Jeremy Flores wanted professional surfing back in France, so he invited 20 surfers here to compete, and it’s already far exceeded anyone’s expectations. Offshore wind all day, blazing sun, surf fans across the beach, and 6-8 foot barrels for the surfers (plus jet ski assistance back to the lineup). Today’s theme from the judges was “best combo”. I ran around taking pictures of everything I saw. These are my favorite 5 of the first day of the inaugural Quiksilver Festival.—Brandon Guilmette

BALARAM STACK AND EDEN EDWARDS

When I think of France the first thing that comes to mind is the walk over the dune for a wave check at first light. The sunrises are epic and it seems like it’s always offshore. Balaram and Eden come over the dune at Les Culs Nus for their first look at perfection on day 1 of the Quiksilver Festival.

MASON HO

Always a fan favorite and entertainer extraordinaire, Mason Ho had a few of his signature tube stances on display this morning. This wave was still real early just as the sun was coming up. As you can see, it’s basically as perfect as waves get and gives Mason the opportunity to stand up straight and casual. 

NOA DEANE

Noa Deane has a wrap for being an “air guy”. Truthfully, he’s one of the most talented surfers on the planet, and I can say that with no hesitation. He’s also one of the nicest. Of course he can punt, but he’s so well-rounded in any condition. This morning the judges were scoring the best combo and upon his exit from the barrel Noz laid down this huge carve. The biggest turn of the day. 

SHANE DORIAN

If you’ve surfed the French beach breaks before, you know how much of a challenge it can be. The peaks are shifting, the tide changes so fast and the current drags you all over the place. Just to be in the spot to get a chance at a perfect wave is a win as most times the perfect gems allude you. Shane’s heat was extra challenging with rips all over and as he got to the beach he got to admire the wave he was hunting for from the shore. 

MIKEY WRIGHT

The first day of the Quiksilver Festival made this entire trip worth it in itself. Tubes galore were on offer all day. Everyone had a crack at a few pits, but Mikey Wright opted to skip the barrels and launch in the second round. This was his first attempt. I’m always surprised at how high he gets every time he punts. You can see a little bird next to him on this one.