South African surfing icon Jordy Smith in action at the Open J-Bay recently. This year the event won’t be held in Jeffreys Bay, as New Zealand has snatched it. Picture: Brenton Geach/Gallo Images) While everyone argues about who is to blame for the cancellation of the World Surf League in Jeffreys Bay in July, word on the street and in surf circles is the town has priced itself off the calendar in recent years.
Supertubes Collection Guest House owner Maresa Meyer said the cancellation was a big loss. “It’s usually nice and vibey, even though it’s winter, and while other coastal towns are quiet, Jeffreys comes alive. “The street is closed off with pavilions for spectators and stalls with big screens to watch the surf,” she said.
Meyer said New Zealand snatched the slot because it had a sponsorship – and the SA government didn’t get behind the event. “Jeffreys Bay is one of the best surf spots in the country. We have everything except the financial backing of government,” she said.
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“World Surf League holds 11 competitions a year across the world and they naturally go where it’s cheapest. “Why would they want to come to South Africa if they have to pay for everything out of their own pockets, while New Zealand gets it given to them?” Meyer said Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie wasn’t the main obstacle as issues have been coming for a few years.
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