Large Waves Featured in this Year's SLO Cal Open in Morro Bay (Photo Gallery)



 

Lelaini McGonagle drops into a left during the SLO Cal surf contest, held at Morro Rock. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)

A large swell, sometimes offering double overhead waves, welcomed competitors in this year's SLO Cal Open at Morro Bay on Feb. 24-27. 

Kei Kobayashi and Sage Erickson won the World Surf League-sponsored event, which concluded next to Morro Rock on a day of pumping swell that at times had the announcers awed. The contest is considered a qualifying contest, which allows up-and-coming surfers to gain recognition while competing more locally. 

Several onlookers watched as offshore winds blew large plumes off the waves, which featured long shoulders. At one point, dolphins joined the entertainment, prompting cheers from the audience. 

The event is one of two WSL events that take place annually in San Luis Obispo County, the other held in Pismo Beach. 

A surfer competes on a large wave in Morro Bay
Kei Kobayashi drops in on an overhead wave in Morro Bay. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)
Not all the surfers in the SLO Cal contest were competing for prize money. This dolphin caught a nice wave as a competitor was paddling out. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)


Eventual winner Sage Erickson paddles out for her final heat during the SLO Cal surf contest. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)


The SLO Cal Open attracted both crowds and media. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)
Sage Erickson, who won the women's contest, drops into a large right during the SLO Cal surf competition. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)
Prizes for the SLO Cal surf contest included cash and trophies created by a local artist. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)
Kei Kobayashi, left, gets a high five for his winning performance in Morro Bay. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)



A surfer prepares to duck under a large wave during the SLO Cal Open. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)


Kei Kobayashi celebrates his victory at the SLO Cal surf contest. (Photo/Pat Pemberton)









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