Day one of the Arica Chilean Challenge saw a rising swell with local and international talent taking apart the improving 3-5ft conditions. A large crowd was on hand to support the many Chilean riders like local hero Eddy Ramirez who progressed into the next round. As well names such as Felipe Olivares, Juan Munoz, Sebastian Kreft, Reno Nilo amongst many other Chilean’s had risen to the occasion not only progressing but winning their heats. Mark McCarthy (SA) current number two in the world was quote saying, “ The Chileans seem to know their home waves well and have a competitive drive that should be taken serious”. International riders such as Tahiti’s Nai Oliver and Australia’s Mitch Woodland came up with solid performances that landed them in tomorrows round two of competition.

Log to www.USBAtour.org for updates!

Arican Challenge Update
Aug 3, 2007
08/01/2007

Arica Chilean Challenge 1– 12 of August

Presented by: Science Bodyboards

In association with: Muncipalidad De Arica, No Friends, Via De Escape, Stealth Fins, Panamericana Hotels, Nacap, SOHO, Demolicion, Cyclo Publico Restaurant

Official Website:

http://200.29.135.55/diariomunicipal/images/campeonato_body/Index.html

Mid day as the last heats horn was blown a new show began in the competition area for the Riders and Fans on hand. This included a warm welcoming form the Arican Mayor as he presented the crowed with a performance by local artists featuring indigenous dancing.

With current swell forecasts showing much promise for larger surf throughout the majority of the waiting period there should be much more news from the Arica Chilean Challenge in days to come.

Written: Jason Bitzer

08/2/2007

Arica Chilean Challenge 1– 12 of August

Presented by: Science Bodyboards

In association with: Muncipalidad De Arica, No Friends, Via De Escape, Stealth Fins, Panamericana Hotels, Nacap, SOHO, Demolicion, Cyclo Publico Restaurant

Official Website:

http://200.29.135.55/diariomunicipal/images/campeonato_body/Index.html

Today august the 2nd at the Arica Chilean Challenge various bodyboarding action went down in round 2 and 3. A swell that was expected to arrive over night seemed to have a slow start with waves ranging still in the 3-5ft range with solid barrels and good sections. Early in round 2 international names went down with such as Michael Novy and Jason Bitzer falling sort with poor wave selection. As the day progressed the surfed jumped to the 4-6 ft range with slightly plus sets. This provided the mid morning heats with an array of good barrels and airs from today’s contestants.

Nick Perry who made his heat was escorted by ambulance to the Arica hospital where he was released with four stitches to his head caused by an accidental encounter with the reef. Standouts included both up and comers as well as lesser know rippers in the likes of Pierre Louis Costes (FRN) and Ivan Hernandeaz (SPN-Canaries). Peirre received the first ten of the contest with a epic barrel exiting near the inside rocks. He went on to back up this wave up with a barrel to backflip combo that complimented his ten with nine point five. Ivan Hernadeaz had surfed well in his heat with multiple good scores with South African Mark McCarthy placing second.

Many more notable moments had kept the crowd on their feet such as Luis Villar (Brazil) huge el rollo attempts. The Chilean has taken a rest on day 3 of the waiting period with the surf still in the 3-5ft range. This postponement is due to a possible epic swell hitting early next week that should last for the rest of the waiting period. Stand bye for more news and check back with the the following sites for more info

Written: Jason Bitzer

www.revel.cl (Daily Photo Logo)
www.ibatour.com (Official IBA Website
www.bodyboardchile.cl (Underground Arica Challenge Site)
www.usbatour.org (Official US national tour site)

–
Jason Bitzer
Operations Manager
USBA TOUR
GRAVITYS FLAW PRODUCTIONS
364 Auwinala Rd.
Kailua HI 96734

Office/Fax 732-528-0621
Cell:808-255-8671