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| Carissa Moore |
This is the first year in history that the event has been elevated to World Championship Tour (WCT) status by the Association of Surfing Professionals, guaranteeing the participation of the top 34 male and 16 female surfers in the world.
The event, which is free for spectators, is set to draw huge crowds to Surfer's Point in Prevelly over an unprecedented 12 day event window, allowing more flexibility for good surfing conditions.
Mr Mark Lane, CEO of Surfing WA, said that he and his team were anticipating record crowds for the event over the 12 day period.
"We're really excited about the event this year as it is now a full ASP World Championship Tour event featuring the top male and female surfers in the world who are guaranteed to attend," said Mr Lane.
Referring to the recent $4 million upgrade of facilities at Surfers Point funded by the Royalties for Regions' 'Supertowns' initiative, Mr Lane said "The fact this is a free event for spectators to attend, in a new look venue will make for a phenomenal event experience.
"The event coincides with Surfing WA turning 50 this year, so some great things will be happening throughout the entire event period to celebrate this milestone," he said.
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association CEO Pip Close said that the media exposure the Drug Aware Pro was anticipated to generate was extraordinary.
"The live webcast of last year's prime event resulted in over two million online viewers - this is expected to increase significantly this year now that the event is part of the world tour," said Ms Close.
"The 12 day event window is a big advantage for tourism, as it means that if there are days with sub-standard surfing conditions, spectators, media and the competitors will be out and about exploring the spectacular Margaret River Region - caving, hiking, visiting wineries and breweries and experiencing the outstanding local gourmet produce and dining scene.
"The Drug Aware Margaret River Pro is a fantastic event for the community - it involves many local suppliers, businesses, surfers, volunteers and services - all whilst promoting the beautiful Margaret River Region," said Ms Close.
The Drug Aware Margaret River Pro is stop number two of 10 WCT events held around the world, along with breaks including Hawaii's Banzai Pipeline and Bell's Beach, Victoria.
To increase the chances of surfable conditions, the 2014 event will see nearby break 'The Box' surfed as well as 'Mainbreak' at Surfers Point.
The State Government supported Surfing WA's bid for WCT status through Eventscorp and with additional funding from Royalties for Regions' Regional Events Program.
The Drug Aware Margaret River Pro is scheduled to run from April 2 - 13, 2014. For more information about the event keep an eye on the ASP website.
To book your accommodation for the event visit www.margaretriver.com .
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