Category: News

Thousands of visitors flocked to the warmest winter venue, KwaDukuza, from 25 June to 8 July to enjoy the longest-running professional surfing event and its non-stop festival entertainment. Hosted for the 15th year on the KZN North Coast, the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, themed This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, was deemed another success with sports, family-friendly events, and after-dark parties catering for all tastes.

“I’d like to extend a massive congratulations to all the competitors this year and a special thanks to the many sponsors who contributed to The Ballito Pro’s success, and our incredible hosts, KwaDukuza for making this all possible,” said Collette Bundy, The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser. “This is the 55th year of the event which continues to grow every year, bringing more activations and features that support community inclusiveness and a celebration of our ocean. We encouraged anyone who missed out this year to follow ‘The Ballito Pro’ on social media for the 2025 edition!”

Sports action at The Ballito Pro

While the Challenger Series surfing action is central to The Ballito Pro, the festival’s sporting action has expanded with the likes of the Monster Energy Activation’s top BMX performers impressing the crowd! This year also saw the 4th edition of the Ballito Skate Jam presented by Monster Energy & Volcom taking place at the Ballito Bowl on 29 June, with Durban’s legendary skater, Khule Ngubane (30) taking home the Open’s and Best Trick titles for the day, while Ballito’s Ezra Vosloo won the Groms Division. Finishing off in style, brothers Matthew and Joshua Fenn took home the title at the Engen Ballito Downwind surfski race which ran from Blythedale to Tiffany beaches on 7 July. Local contenders, Hank and Pippa McGregor were crowned Mixed Doubles winners, while Saskia Hockly and Christie Mackenzie won the Ladies Division.

Music at The Ballito Pro

It was non-stop musical entertainment at the 55th edition of The Ballito Pro with the Corona Sunset Beach Bar Sessions running from 26 June to 7 July at the Willard Beach Retail section where the best in local DJ talent were performing. The fun continued at The Ballito Pro After Dark Programmes at Conchilla and Good Vibes. Local talent was on display when KwaDukuza Municipality organised the Battle of the DJs audition at KwaDukuza Town Hall on 2 July. The winning DJ, Blaq Muntu from Darnall, then got to perform on the main stage at the free-to-attend Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona which ran on 4 and 5 July at Salt Rock Main Beach. Here visitors got to enjoy the likes of DJ Merlon, Stanky Deejay, December Streets, Desmond & the Tutus, Veranda Panda, the Saxby Twins, and TIMO ODV.

Festival-goers immersed themselves in the finest electronic dance music and outdoor lifestyle activities, offering a perfect escape to unwind, relax, disconnect from daily routines, and reconnect with their essential selves in nature. South Africa’s top musicians and DJs performed against a stunning sunset backdrop, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Community initiatives at The Ballito Pro

The event is committed to community upliftment, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability as was evidenced by the festival programme. This included The Ilembe Surf Riders Fundraiser on 2 July at Fiamma Grill, where surf equipment and memorabilia were auctioned, a raffle held, and an autograph signing session with O’Neill Pro Team Surfers raised much-needed funds to develop the future of surfing in the Ilembe District. Forming part of the evening was the Made for More presentation where the KZN-based NPO showcased the work it does equipping and empowering people with disabilities through sport.

This year saw the introduction of The Ballito Pro art activation run by KZN NPO Painting on Purpose in partnership with the KwaDukuza Municipality Youth and Sports Development Unit, the KZN Department of Education, and O’Neill. The art competition welcomed art contributions from 19 KwaDukuza high schools with the top 10 contestants participating in a Lino Cut workshop on 15 June hosted by Painting on Purpose. The artists had to create something based on the Ballito Pro’s 2024 theme #Thisisthebattlefield #LenaInkudlaYempi, all of which are on display and for sale at The Gallery at The Junction, with 100% of the profits going towards the artists. The top three artists – Danita Pharo from Stanger Manor Secondary School (1st place), Yashvir Chabalalsingh (2nd place), and Hazel Ruth Ramdass (3rd place) – participated in an interactive mural at the Ballito Pro, assisting the Painting on Purpose team. Prizes for the three top contestants include work internships, a mural at their respective schools, as well as many more goodies donated by the Ballito Pro event partners.

Conservation Initiatives at The Ballito Pro

The Ballito Pro welcomed back the local Litter4Tokens Recycling Awareness Campaign and Beach Activation which encourages ocean conservation while supporting livelihoods. Litter4tokens collectors and volunteers worked throughout the two-week event to prevent ocean-bound and landfill waste while educating visitors about their work. Funded by the President’s Stimulus Fund and Brownie Points, Litter4Tokens employed 15 staff to collect and separate waste at the source, making the WSL Ballito Pro the first event to quantify its environmental impact with all data logged on the Litter4Tokens app, verified by recycling partners, and tracked.

Branded bins encouraged proper waste separation with environmental care provided by Dolphin Coast Waste Management, Ballito UIP and KwaDukuza Municipality. There were also engaging activities and prizes for participants in the National Nurdle Cleanup with volunteers collecting tiny plastic balls – Mermaid Tears used in plastic manufacturing. Prizes included lifesaver water bottles capable of removing 99.9% of all known bacteria and viruses, a surfboard worth R7 200 made from bio-resin and natural fibres, and additional prizes sponsored by Fiamma Grill, Concha Cafe, and Coco de Mer. The activation set a new standard for WSL events, hopefully inspiring future WSL events to adopt similar practices.

Litter4Tokens Impact:

Total Recycling Collected: 694 bags

Materials Collected: Glass, cardboard, plastics (types 1-5)

Total Weight Repurposed: 1157.18 kg

Total Waste to Landfill: 472 kg (including Styrofoam and food waste)

Nurdles Collected: 3.56 kg

Daily Entertainment at The Ballito Pro

Willard Beach was a hive of activity as families were kept engaged with the Recreational Actionthat included fashion shows, beach sports, dance, yoga, nduku (stick fighting) demonstrations and environmental displays. The little ones enjoyed the Willard Beach Kids’ Corner which consisted of daily face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, water balls, and the popular Jive with Jen dance programme. Those looking for great food, drinks, arts, and crafts, as well as live entertainment found what they wanted in the daily Retail Delight hosted throughout The Ballito Pro.

Don’t miss out!

The Ballito Pro will return to KwaDukuza in the winter of 2025, so don’t be caught out! Keep updated by visiting www.theballitopro.com or follow on the various social media platforms:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

WatchThe Challenger Series on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

After two weeks of non-stop seaside sports and festival entertainment on the KZN North Coast, the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill ends with the final day of the iconic Challenger Series surfing contest on Monday, 8 July.

Visitors from KZN and further afield enjoyed a fortnight of warm winter weather, epic surfing action, and some of the best festival entertainment on offer. There was daily Recreational Action and Retail Delights with the little ones kept engaged at the Kids’ Corner.

Outside of the longest-running professional surfing event, sports enthusiasts were treated to the Ballito Skate Jam presented by Monster Energy & Volcom which was won by Durban’s Khule Ngubane, the Monster Energy Activation, and the return of the Engen Ballito Downwind surfski race on Sunday, 7 July won by brothers Matthew and Joshua Fenn.

In line with the festival ethos, there were lots of community initiatives and activations including the Painting on Purpose Art Activation, Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach, and iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser.

Music lovers were in for a treat this year with the After Dark Programmes, Battle of the DJs, Corona Sunset Beach Bar Sessions, and two-day Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona featuring some of South Africa’s hottest acts.

Follow The Ballito Pro on social media platforms #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi. Visit www.theballitopro.com for more information.

With a selection of the province’s top competitive paddlers taking to the Indian Ocean on Sunday, 7 July, the 2024 Engen Ballito Downwind was always going to be a hotly contested tournament. But in the end, it was East London brothers, Matthew and Joshua Fenn, who took top honours in the doubles surfski race from Blythedale to Tiffany’s beaches. Husband-and-wife team from the KZN North Coast, Hank and Pippa McGregor, took the mixed doubles title, coming 2nd overall just minutes behind the winners, while fellow North Coasters Saskia Hockly and Christie Mackenzie took the ladies’ title.

This epic contest forms part of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill festival programme which brought non-stop entertainment to KwaDukuza visitors from 25 June to 8 July. Some 53 competitors started at Blythedale Beach at noon, finishing at Tiffany’s Beach 18.5kms north with the prizegiving ceremony hosted at Canelands Hotel. Organisers South Africa Surf Ski partnered with The Ballito Pro for the event, with new title sponsor, Engen Ballito and perennial surfski sponsors, the Pumpsmiths, supporting the event.

Speaking on behalf of the winning team, Matthew Fenn said: “The race went really well. We were blessed with more wind than the forecast predicted so we had a lovely downwind. The competition was fun, we struggled to get rid of Hank and Pippa early on in the race, they were strong from the start and got out through the surf nice and clean, and it was good fun dicing them in the early stages. It’s a beautiful stretch of coastline to paddle and we really enjoyed it. Josh was super strong the whole way, I had a lot of fun in the back trying to stay with him.”

Commenting after the prizegiving ceremony, Barry Lewin, Event Organiser, said: “It was great to see so many paddlers take part in the event with guys coming from as far as Pietermaritzburg, Scottburgh, East London, and Richards Bay. Conditions were amazing with a beautiful wind, which is what the event aims for. There were lots of big smiles on the faces of the competitors. It’s great to have local businesses backing the event with Engen Ballito, the Pumpsmiths, and South African Surfski sponsoring.”

The surprise contenders on the day were Ballito power paddling couple, Hank and Pippa McGregor, both respected paddlers with a number of wins together. Multiple World Champion, Hank, also said the day’s conditions were fantastic for the race:

“The conditions turned on to be perfect. Barry waited for the perfect opportunity, the wind was building in the morning and a midday race was perfect. There was a small swell and great downwind conditions. My wife, Pippa paddled really well and we finished second overall against the Fenn brothers. Winning the Mixed Doubles was a tough competition with the likes of Matthew Bouman and Michelle Burn, and the Mansons, so we were really happy to pull off the title in this fantastic event. Thanks to all the sponsors and I look forward to next year’s race.”

One-half of the Ladies’ Division winners, Saskia Hockly, said despite initial weather predictions, it was a great race: “The forecast on Saturday night made it look like a slog of a paddle but we were happily surprised the ocean was spotted with white and running nicely. After navigating a bit of a challenging launch, Christie and I headed deep to make the most of what was on offer. There were some fabulous runs to race against and we hit some good speeds! We cruised down the coast to Tiffany’s where we came in nice and cleanly and overall, I enjoyed every second of the race. Barry always puts on such fantastic events and is always utilising the best stretches of coastline in our province, giving us paddlers a mixture of courses to enjoy throughout the season.”

2024 Engen Ballito Downwind Results

Men’s Division

1st Matthew and Joshua Fenn (1:03:00.16)

2nd Luke Nisbet and Brent Chiazzari (1:07:57.34)

3rd Gal Marks and Keegan Vogt ( 1:11:24.93)

4th Marco Magni and Vernon Vogt (1:11:50.95)

5th Lee Furby and Barry Painting (1:13:27.67)

6th Ty Haynes and Troy Jacobs (1:16:15.76)

7th Bryce Hatton and Marc Stanton (1:16:33.78)

8th Brad and Chris Allan  (1:17:11.40)

9th Jayden Van Rensburg and Senzo Ngcobo (1:20:17.62)

10th Clint Pretorius and Mark Jason (1:22:22.51)

Mixed Doubles Division

1st Hank and Pippa McGregor (1:05:03.14)

2nd Michelle Burn and Matthew Bouman (1:08:23.15)

3rd Bevan and Carol Manson (1:15:18.91)

4th Brendon Waters and Mikaila Brown (1:16:40.35)

5th Shaine and Julia McAlister (1:18:08.94)

6th Dirk Barnard and Stacey Lee Pretorius (1:31:40.72)

7th Wilma Deyzel and Keith Bennett (1:32:34.48)

Ladies Division

1st Saskia Hockly and Christie Mackenzie (1:12:46.12)

2nd Jenna Nisbet and Bridgette Hartley (1:19:49.65)

3rd Lyn Bennett and Clair Spring (1:37:25.16)

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors got to watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Crowds headed to Salt Rock Main Beach for two days of the best in South African music at the Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona on 4 and 5 July. Night one of the free-to-attend concert started with the winner of the Battle of the DJs, organised by KwaDukuza Municipality, taking to the decks.Thisset was followed by local greats DJ Merlon, Kabza De Small, Asante and Stanky Deejay. Night Two welcomed indie pop and electronic dance music by the December Streets, Desmond & the Tutus, Veranda Panda, the Saxby Twins and TIMO ODV. This was one of the many musical elements of the two-week 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival which includes Corona Sunset Beach Bar Sessions and The Ballito Pro After Dark Programmes. 

Check out all the action by following The Ballito Pro on social media #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi.

The return of the Engen Ballito Downwind to the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill brings with it some serious competition as top paddlers from the Eastern Cape, brothers Matthew (22) and Joshua (24) Fenn, take on the top local competitors this Sunday, 7 July. This doubles surfski race, from Blythedale to Tiffany’s beaches, forms part of the 55th Ballito Pro festival programme running in KwaDukuza until the 8 July, featuring live entertainment, quality retail, extreme sports, art activations, kids’ activities, and more!

Organisers South Africa Surf Ski are partnering with The Ballito Pro for the event, with new title sponsor, Engen Ballito and perennial surfski sponsors, the Pumpsmiths, supporting the event. Barry Lewin, Event Organiser, said the stage is set for an epic surfski showdown this weekend.

“East London’s Matthew and Joshua Fenn will be taking on the KZN North Coast contenders with intimate knowledge of the local course, for the Engen Ballito Downwind title. The local crew topping the list include winners of the 2024 Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge and last weekend’s Scottburgh to Brighton, Luke Nisbet and Brent Chiazzari,” says Lewin.

He explained that a third crew includes surprise contenders, the mixed doubles of Hank McGregor and Pippa McGregor. This husband-and-wife power paddling couple from Ballito has notched a number of wins together, including the uMhlanga Pirates race as a mixed doubles team. They also took respective wins in the men’s and women’s races at the 27km Prescient Freedom Paddle around Robben Island.

“The McGregors currently hold the record for a double between Blythedale and Tiffany beaches – the race course – so they will definitely be top contenders,” continues Lewin. “The ladies’ favourites are uMdloti’s Saskia Hockly and Christie Mackenzie, the current KZN Flatwater Marathon Champs who are looking forward to competing on home turf!”

Commenting on the impending race, East London’s Matthew Fenn said: “We are feeling really excited about the race this weekend, we always look forward to going to Ballito to race the guys there. Generally, the locals are in top condition and bring their A-game! We’ve raced a few times on the KZN North and South Coast, we try to race there as much as we can, so we know the area quite well but are looking forward to some tight racing in this competition.”

2024 Engen Ballito Downwind

Course: 18.5kms from Blythedale Beach to Tiffany’s Beach
Date: Sunday, 7 July
Time: 9am
Entry: www.canoesa.org.za | R305 (incl. KNCU fees) with a race shirt for the first 50 paddlers to pre-enter

This is a proudly Ballito Pro event presented by The Pumpsmith, South Africa Surf Ski, and Engen Ballito.

The Ballito Pro cranks it up with a top musical lineup for this year’s festival

While the days will be dominated by sports and retail action at the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, music and dance lovers will be treated to some of the best local artists who are bringing the vibe to the sunset, after-dark, and concert sessions! These rocking parties form part of The Ballito Pro festival which is running alongside the surfing action in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July.

Corona Sunset Beach Bar Sessions

From 26 June to 7 July from 4pm, partygoers can head to the Willard Beach Retail section where they will hear the best in local DJ talent. This year’s epic lineup includes:

Wednesday 3 July 

4pm: Tatum Tides

5pm: DJ Royal Love

7pm: Austin Cassim

Saturday 6 July 

4pm: Freddy L

5pm: DJ Royal Love

7pm: Ryan Stylz

Sunday 7 July

4pm: DJ Royal Love

6pm: Ryan Stylz

7pm: Roxy Louw

The Ballito Pro After Dark Programmes

The vibes extend throughout the region with Ballito Village hosting daily entertainment and after-parties for The Ballito Pro festival-goers. Music and food lovers will find what they want at Conchilla and Good Vibes!

Conchilla in Ballito Village

Wednesday, 3 July – Karaoke

Thursday, 4 July – Delavante, B_Rad, & Jay Reid

Saturday, 6 July – Household Funk & Brent Crude

Sunday, 7 July – Freddy l & half-price sushi

Good Vibes in Ballito Village

Tuesday, 2 July – Swimsuit Show

Wednesday, 3 July – Kyle Cassim

Friday, 5 July – Tim ODV

Sunday, 7 July – Roxy Louw

….. and lots more!!

Battle of the DJs

The Ballito Pro gives local talent a platform to showcase their DJ skills with the Battle of the DJ auditions taking place at KwaDukuza Town Hall on Tuesday, 2 July. The top DJ from this event will get the chance to perform alongside internationally acclaimed musicians as they take to the main stage of the Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona on Thursday, 5 July.

The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona

Another Ballito Pro festival highlight is the two-day Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona taking place at Salt Rock Main Beach on Thursday, 4 and Friday, 5 July. These free-to-attend concerts cater to a diverse range of musical tastes so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Night 1: Thursday, 4 July from 4.30pm to 10.30pm

The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona will kick off with some local skill as the winner of the Battle of the DJs takes to the decks. Next up is DJ Merlon, a pivotal figure on the South African music scene who’s renowned for his deep house tracks and captivating sets. South African DJ and amapiano sensation, Young Stunna, will then wow the crowds with his infectious rhythm and soulful melodies, before Asante takes over the stage. The set concludes with Durban’s own Stanky Deejay, an amapiano expert and KZN favourite.

Night 2: Friday, 5 July from 4.30pm to 11.30pm

The second night of the Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona gets underway with Pretoria’s indie pop band December Streets taking to the stage. This level of high energy can only be matched by fellow Pretoria indie pop band, Desmond & the Tutus who are renowned for their infectious rhythm and quirky lyrics. Then it’s time for Durban based electronic duo, Veranda Panda who create a unique, genre-defying sonic experience. Joburg’s Wade and Kyle Saxby, AKA the Saxby Twins will show why they’re making waves in the South African music scene before the talented TIMO ODV ends the night on a high with his pulsating rhythms, atmospheric melodies, and introspective lyrics.

2024 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup

Outside of the skating and surfing arenas, visitors to this year’s Ballito Pro will enjoy two weeks of non-stop festival fun at the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Some exciting 2024 festival elements include:

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
• Recreational Action
• Retail Delight with food, drinks, arts and crafts
• Kids’ Corner with face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, and Jive with Jen dance
• Battle of the DJs and After Dark programme
• Monster Energy Activation
• iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser
• After Dark Programmes and Parties
• Painting on Purpose Art Activation
• Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors will watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

Spectators were treated to a skating spectacle on Saturday, 29 June as the best of the best took to the Ballito Bowl to compete for the top prize. But it was Durban’s Khule Ngubane (30) who wowed the crowds at the 4th Ballito Skate Jam presented by Monster Energy & Volcom, taking home the Open’s and Best Trick titles for the day.

Ngubane took home R12 000 for his win and another R6 000 for Best Trick of the competition. Josh Beukes (Pretoria) won R6 000 for 2nd place with Kalvyn MacMillan (Durban) – winner of the 2021 and 2023 titles – taking home R4 000 for his 3rd place spot. The top three Groms – Ezra Vosloo (Ballito), Caitlin King (Durban), and Arthur Watson (Durban) – took home R5 000, R3 000, and R2 000 respectively, with the top 6 across the two categories taking home hampers from Etnies and Volcom.

Speaking after the event, professional skateboarder and World Cup Skateboarding Series competitor Khule Ngubane said: “I didn’t put any pressure on myself because skate bowl is not my strong suit, I usually skate ramps, so there were no expectations, it was just about fun for me. I didn’t think I was going to win. Best Trick I thought I would do well because I’m a versatile skateboarder so I was looking forward to that.”

The Durbanite, who represents Monster Energy, competes internationally but said he looks forward to this annual KZN competition: “Once a year I get to come to Ballito and it’s nice to have a local event. To come with that ‘W’ feels amazing! I’m humbled, this couldn’t have come at a better time as it’s got me focused on my bigger contests. A win is always a big motivator.”

Looking back, Ngubane – who comes from Chesterville originally – recalls his introduction to the sport at 11 years old when he saw Tony Hawk on TV, with a PlayStation game further inspiring his interest: “For my 12th birthday my grandpa – who’d never given me a gift – he asked me what I want and I said ‘a skateboard’. We were both December babies and he splurged R60 on a skateboard. I’ve skated hundreds of skateboards but you never forget that first one. There was something special about that moment.”

Ngubane describes skating as his way out of poverty, although it took dedication: “I walked to the Pavilion [skate part] and skated there. It taught me a work ethic, because I didn’t have money and I used to hide the fact that I skated from my family as skaters had a bad rep. So I’d sweep the skate park just so I could skate. By 15 I was a professional skateboarder and 15 years on, I’m at the top of my game.”

Never forgetting where he came from, Ngubane has established his NPO Back to the Roots which gives back to the community through skating and will be hosting local skating events when he returns from his European contests later in the year. In addition to his skating talent, he’s a hip-hop artist performing under the name KoolAir and will be releasing his album later in the year.

The Grom’s top competitor, Ezra Vosloo (11) commented: “Ever since I was a baby, we’ve had skateboards in the house, but I started skating a lot when I was about 7 years old. My favourite part about the Ballito Pro Skate Jam is having all the great skaters come to town and this year I had my family from overseas come to watch. My goal one day is to win the Open Division and maybe go to the Olympics. I’d also love to travel the world skating at lots of great parks.”

Markus Müseler from the event hosts, OSP Events Co. said: “Another amazing Bowl Jam this year, we saw the level of the contest and event really step up with the best in local skateboarding. The addition of LIVE BMX was exactly what was needed for the Ballito community seeing the crowds come out to support the Ballito Pro Skate Jam. A massive thanks to our partners and the Ballito Pro. The OSP team is looking forward to 2025!”

Paul Canning, O’Neill and Volcom Brand Director agreed, saying: “We were very stoked to be involved with Volcom and Etnies in the Ballito Bowl Skate Jam again this year. It is awesome to see the support of the event from both the local community and top skaters from around the country.”

2024 Ballito Pro Skate Jam Results

Opens

Winner and Best Trick: Khule Ngubane
2nd Josh Beukes
3rd Kalvyn Mac Millan
4th Alan Marola
5th Puddy Zwenis
6th Ezra Vosloo
7th Byron Rhoda
8th Joshua van Zyl

Groms

Winner: Ezra Vosloo
2nd Caitlin King 
3rd Arthur Watson
4th Levi Vosloo
5th James Charlton-Jones
6th Adnir Tait

Thanks were extended to all the sponsors that made the event possible: Monster Energy, Volcom, Etnies, Remax, GroundSwell, and Ride up Movement.

2024 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup

Outside of the skating and surfing arenas, visitors to this year’s Ballito Pro will enjoy two weeks of non-stop festival fun at the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Some exciting 2024 festival elements include:

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
• Recreational Action
• Retail Delight with food, drinks, arts and crafts
• Kids’ Corner with face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, and Jive with Jen dance
• Battle of the DJs and After Dark programme
• Monster Energy Activation
• iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser
• After Dark Programmes and Parties
• Painting on Purpose Art Activation
• Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors will watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

The sporting action is set to increase at the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill with the inclusion of the Engen Ballito Downwind on Sunday, 7 July between Bythdale and Tiffany’s beaches. This premium doubles surfski race forms part of the epic Ballito Pro festival programme running in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July, featuring live entertainment, quality retail, extreme sports, art activations, kids’ activities, and more!

The surfski and paddling community on the KZN North Coast growing with racing returning to the region and there’s a need for more events. The Engen Ballito Downwind originally ran in 2018 but was put on halt due to Covid-19. As the paddlers relocated to the KZN North Coast, the club has organised a number of events on the KZN calendar, including Jawitz Properties season opener, as the KZN Marathon Championships.

The organisers, South Africa Surf Ski, are proud to partner with the local standout festival for the region, The Ballito Pro, as part of the programme. Barry Lewin, Event Organiser, said:

“It’s great to be part of a larger festival to offer surfski paddlers not only the great ocean conditions of the KZN North Coast, but other auxiliary activities such as Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, the concerts presented by Corona, as well as the markets and retail activities which are bringing visitors to the region.

“We are very excited to welcome a new title sponsor to the event with Engen Ballito, our local filling and convenience centre as well as perennial surfski sponsors, the Pumpsmiths who are supporting the event. Big thanks to Mark Jason and Rajesh Ramperthab for backing the sport as a local business, and we look forward to the paddlers filling up at Engen.”

The KZN North Coast is a hotbed of local talent, Hank McGregor, Saskia Hockly, Christie Mackenzie, and Brent Chiazzari as well as club members who will use their local knowledge to take advantage in the seniors, vets, juniors, and mixed doubles categories.

uMdloti residents Saskia Hockly and Christie Mackenzie – the KZN Flatwater Marathon Champs – will be upping the competition at the event as they take to the water. Commenting on the race, Hockly said: “I’m super excited to hear that yet another new race has been brought in on my home stretch of coastline, and for it to be hosted alongside the Ballito Pro is really cool with the high vibes and good spirits!

“One of my favourite races, the Dolphin Coast Challenge is held on the North Coast and I believe this specific stretch of coastline has some world-class potential. I’m really looking forward to getting geared up in my ski leading up the SA Surfski Champs in Durban as well, and the surfski community in our city is filled with amazing, friendly and passionate people who all share one thing in common: the love for the sea! I can’t wait to line up on that line and race with good friends and in my favourite place in the world.”

Fellow paddler, Christie Mackenzie said: “I am super excited to be a part of this race! Surfski is relatively new for me and I’m super excited to be sitting behind my super-competent partner Saskia Hockly. We have had a super successful season together so far and I’m really excited to be learning more about the sea from her.”

Competing with Luke Nisbet is Salt Rock’s Brent Chiazzari, a new resident on the KZN North Coast who’s very keen to compete in the Engen Ballito Downwind: “The vibe around The Ballito Pro and the inclusion of a surfski event is really quite exciting for the surfski fraternity. Barry Lewin loves a good downwind and he’s planned the route along some of the best downwinding coastlines in South Africa. If we get some wind this year, it is sure to be one for the books. The launch itself can be a bit hairy with Blythdale having a typical steep entry beach with a decent shorebeak, but that’s part of the challenge. Luke and I are hoping for some strong downwind conditions!”

2024 Engen Ballito Downwind

Course: 18.5kms from Blythedale Beach to Tiffany’s Beach

Date: Sunday, 7 July

Time: 9am

Entry: www.canoesa.org.za | R305 (incl. KNCU fees) with a race shirt for the first 50 paddlers to pre-enter

This is a proudly Ballito Pro event presented by The Pumpsmith, South Africa Surf Ski, and Engen Ballito.

2024 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup

Outside of the skating and surfing arenas, visitors to this year’s Ballito Pro will enjoy two weeks of non-stop festival fun at the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Some exciting 2024 festival elements include:

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
• Recreational Action
• Retail Delight with food, drinks, arts and crafts
• Kids’ Corner with face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, and Jive with Jen dance
• Battle of the DJs and After Dark programme
• Monster Energy Activation
• iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser
• After Dark Programmes and Parties
• Painting on Purpose Art Activation
• Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors will watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

The 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill celebrates the ocean through surfing, seaside activities, and a dedicated conservation and community empowerment programme. As the Ballito Pro festival gets underway in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July 2024, there are many ways for visitors to get involved and support these positive initiatives.

“The reality is that without a healthy ocean, there is no Ballito Pro and there is no life, so we need to be doing what we can to protect our ocean throughout the festival and beyond,” said Collette Bundy, The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser.

“We’re delighted to welcome back the globally impactful Litter4Tokens Awareness & Prevention Campaign Beach Activation that encourages ocean conservation while supporting livelihoods. We also have the Made for More presentation and Ilembe Surf Riders Fundraiser promoting the development of surfing among our local communities. This all forms part of the Ballito Pro festival programme that will keep visitors engaged and entertained for the full two weeks.”

Litter4Tokens Awareness & Prevention Campaign and Beach Activation

The Ballito Pro is collaborating with renowned NPO Litter4Tokens to highlight the National Nurdle Clean-Up campaign. This is the clean-up of small plastic pellets, known as nurdles or mermaid tears, used in the manufacture of all plastic products. Nurdles are devastating for marine ecosystems as they spill into the ocean from lost containers, however, the code for nurdles isn’t deemed ‘hazardous material’ so shipping companies don’t know they are carrying them. They are also released by all plastic manufacturers into the drains when making all seven types of plastic, making their way to the rivers and ocean. Because of their small size and resemblance to fish eggs, marine animals consume these pellets, leading to intestinal blockages and starvation.

Clare Swithenbank-Bowman, CEO and founder of Litter4Tokens, Trash4Tokens, and the inventor of the Mermaid Tear Catcher – which is made from ocean-bound plastic – said they’re continuing the impetus of the 2019 initiative which saw more than 2.6kg of nurdles collected at the Ballito Pro. To date, they have collected and prevented more than 16.3 kgs of nurdles, saving the ocean and educating over 62 000 people.

“While you’re watching the best surfing, we encourage you to help collect the nurdles with our specially designed Mermaid Tear Catcher, usually along the beach at the high-water marks and among rocks,” said Swithenbank-Bowman. “Once nurdles are weighed, they are put into the Nurdle Bin to be repurposed. All contributors are added to the National Nurdle Clean-up and can win big! There will also be educational outreach programmes running at The Ballito Pro so you can learn more.”

The Ballito Pro-branded Mermaid Tear Catchers, which will be on sale at the event, are used to sieve through the sand to collect nurdles. All participants are entered into a competition and stand a chance to win some incredible prizes worth tens of thousands of rands. These include a two-night stay at Coco De Mer Boutique Hotel, dinner vouchers, cash prizes, and a surfboard made from recycled materials.

Litter4Tokens collectors will be sorting and collecting materials from all spectators, logging data on their app to document the types and quantities of waste diverted from landfills to show the full CO2 mitigated at The Ballito Pro – the first time such data will be collected at a WSL event. Dolphin Coast Waste Management will verify the data, including full rebate and repurposing of all materials, which will be shared with the event organisers daily to show how much landfill and ocean waste was prevented. 

Grant ‘Twiggy’ Baker, legendary South African big wave surfer and three-time WSL World Champion, commented: “Nurdle pollution is a huge problem; almost every beach I travel to around the world has these environmentally disastrous pieces of plastic on them. The work that Litter4Tokens is doing to try and help clean these things up is fantastic. We get all packaging back to be repurposed with the dream of never having to do another beach clean-up again. Prevention is better than cure, giving all litter a higher value.”

History and Impact of Litter4Tokens

The Litter4Tokens campaign, established in 2015, has made significant strides in waste management and community empowerment across South Africa. The initiative has prevented over 2 million bags of ocean-bound waste and empowered more than 382 000 people. Currently, Litter4Tokens averages 72 000 bags of sorted materials monthly, with 1 432 waste collectors actively participating. The campaign operates in over 22 sites across the country, including KwaDukuza, Richards Bay, Mpumalanga, and Estcourt. There is also a sister foundation in the USA and Mexico – www.trash4tokens.org.

For more visit www.Litter4Tokens.org or contact Clare Swithenbank-Bowman at clare@litter4tokens.co.za.

The iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser and Made for More Presentation

Don’t miss out on an evening of fun all the while raising much-needed funding for the iLembe Surfriders Association. This is the official surfing district on the KZN North Coast, committed to promoting and developing the future of surfing in the Ilembe District.

This will also be an opportunity to learn more about the inspirational work being done by Made for More. This KZN-based NPO includes, equips, and empowers people with disabilities through sport. This includes coaching, exercise therapy, community projects, mentorship and training, awareness events, and leadership camps.

Guests at the fundraiser can look forward to an auction of fantastic surf equipment and memorabilia, a raffle for various surf merchandise prizes and an autograph signing session and interviews with O’Neill Pro Team Surfers. Surfing footage on the TV screens, a DJ and Fiamma Pizza specials will add to the good vibes.   

Venue: Fiamma Grill

Date: Tuesday, 2 July 2024

Time: 5.30pm

Cost: R100 per person including a raffle ticket and a complimentary Corona or cool drink as appropriate.

2024 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup

Outside of the skating and surfing arenas, visitors to this year’s Ballito Pro will enjoy two weeks of non-stop festival fun at the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Some exciting 2024 festival elements include:

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
• Recreational Action
• Retail Delight with food, drinks, arts and crafts
• Kids’ Corner with face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, and Jive with Jen dance
• Battle of the DJs and After Dark programme
• Monster Energy Activation
• iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser
• After Dark Programmes and Parties
• Painting on Purpose Art Activation
• Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors will watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro

Just like sports, art is an effective way to connect people from all backgrounds through a common purpose. The 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is a celebration of this, connecting South Africans throughout the event festival running in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July. This is evidenced by the innovative Painting on Purpose art activation that brings schoolchildren from 19 KwaDukuza schools together through art.

“We want to harness the power of creativity to forge enduring connections among communities that leave a lasting and meaningful impact,” explained Dylan Smith, co-founder of Painting on Purpose. “Through this multi-staged art competition and programme, we aim to include and empower all KwaDukuza communities through the Ballito Pro. It’s an important showcase that gives school students a chance to be exposed to the bigger world of events, the scope of the creative arts, and their potential to make a career and living with their art.”

Collette Bundy, The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser, said this was one of the many community-focused initiatives running through the Ballito Pro Festival Programme that engages and empowers local residents: “The Ballito Pro attracts massive crowds to KwaDukuza, making it the perfect platform for young artists to showcase their skills. We’re delighted to be partnering with Painting on Purpose on what is set to be an empowering art activation for local youth.”

Painting on Purpose is a KZN North Coast NPO run by the husband-and-wife team, Dylan and Gabi Smith. They have conducted projects across South Africa, including Alexandra in Johannesburg, Khayelitsha in Cape Town, and Wentworth in KwaZulu-Natal. Drawing on Dylan’s background in graffiti art, marketing and graphic design, coupled with Gabi’s experience in video production and project management, the pair are improving the world for underserved communities through art.

The Ballito Pro Painting with Purpose consists of three stages. The first included contacting 19 KwaDukuza high schools calling for artwork to be submitted. In the second stage, the top 10 selected artworks were selected and the contestants partook in a Lino Cut workshop on 15 June, hosted by Painting on Purpose. The artists were tasked with creating something based on the Ballito Pro’s 2024 theme #Thisisthebattlefield #LenaInkudlaYempi. These artworks will be displayed for sale at The Gallery at The Junction on 22 July, with 100% of the profits going towards the artists.

The final stage of the Ballito Pro Painting on Purpose activation will see the top three artists invited to participate in an interactive mural at the Ballito Pro, assisting the Painting on Purpose team. This will be an interactive mural, in a paint-by-numbers type format, with the public invited to participate so as to creatively inspire and unite the festival-goers.

Their linocut artworks will also be on display and visiting crowds can vote for the top prize winner. Prizes for the winner and two runners-up include work internships, a mural at their respective schools, as well as many more goodies donated by the Ballito Pro event partners.

2024 Ballito Pro Festival Lineup

Outside of the skating and surfing arenas, visitors to this year’s Ballito Pro will enjoy two weeks of non-stop festival fun at the longest-running professional surfing event in the world. Some exciting 2024 festival elements include:

• Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona
• Recreational Action
• Retail Delight with food, drinks, arts and crafts
• Kids’ Corner with face painting, sandcastle building, beach dashes, and Jive with Jen dance
• Battle of the DJs and After Dark programme
• Monster Energy Activation
• iLembe Surf Riders Fundraiser
• After Dark Programmes and Parties
• Painting on Purpose Art Activation
• Litter4Tokens Awareness Campaign and Beach

Following the 2024 theme, This is the Battlefield – Lena Inkundla Yempi, visitors will watch the best surfers battle it out in the longest-running professional surfing event while enjoying a host of top-class festival entertainment.

Don’t miss any of the action at the 2024 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival #thisisthebattlefield #lenainkudlayempi

Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.

To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:

Website: www.theballitopro.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro

Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro

Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro