UK Surf Contest Implodes After Alleged Harassment of Female Competitors

Back in October of last year, drama went down at a UK surf contest.

During the women’s semi-finals, a group of free-surfers paddled out into the lineup, blocking the competitors from waves, snaking them, verbally harassing them, and allegedly in one instance held one surfer’s head underwater for a period of time.

The contest was postponed, as a result. But now, it looks like it’s totally canceled.

In a press release, the competition organizers stated:

“GB Surfing would like to provide an update regarding the 2025 GB Cup Finals and our future involvement in the delivery of the British Championships.

“Over recent months, GB Surfing has worked extensively to identify a suitable date to deliver the 2025 GB Cup Finals. Despite exploring a range of potential options, it has not been possible to secure a solution that would allow the event to be delivered at the appropriate competitive standard.

“Following discussion at a recent Board meeting, and after carefully considering factors including athlete availability, fairness of competition, logistical challenges, and the financial implications of delivering a standalone event, the Board concluded that it would not be possible to stage a final under the required conditions. As a result, the 2025 GB Cup Finals will not take place.”

One of the primary people named in the harassment was surfer Ian Battrick. Following the incident, he told his side of the story, which included:

“During the recent surf competition, I made a mistake. The event was still running, and I chose to paddle out when told we could, maybe I shouldn’t have. It was thoughtless. I didn’t think about how that might affect the competitors or those who had worked hard to make the event happen. I take full responsibility for that choice.”

Until next time.