Lima, Peru, December 16
The Peruvian team is gearing up to face the world’s best surfers at Pipeline, located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Recognized as the most iconic and dangerous wave on the planet, Pipeline will host the prestigious Da Hui Backdoor Shootout 2025,, which will take place from January 4 to 16. Among the members of the national team, several residents of Punta Hermosa, the birthplace of great Peruvian surfing talents and a training ground for prominent surfers who have left their mark in international competitions.
The Peruvian team will be represented by Alonso Correa, Gabriel Villarán, Álvaro Malpartida, Cristóbal De Col, Joaquín Del Castilloand Noah De ColThey will compete in individual and team categories, facing surfing powerhouses like Hawaii, Brazil, and Japan. Among the most notable rivals are legendary names like John John Florence, Jamie O’Brienand Kelly Slater.
“Pipeline is the only place in the world where those who are or want to be professionals truly test themselves. If you stand out at Pipeline, you can surf any wave in the world!," comments Gabriel Villarán, experienced competitor and resident of Punta Hermosa.
Pipeline is famous for its technical complexity: a thick and hollow wave that breaks over a coral reef in shallow waters, forming long and spectacular tubes. However, its majesty also involves a high level of risk, being the scene of accidents that have claimed the lives of surfers and photographers. The challenge is not minor, as demonstrated by the history of Joaquín Del Castillo, who suffered a serious injury at Pipeline during last year's event. After a long recovery period, the surfer is back and ready to give it his all in this new edition.
A Unique Format: Brotherhood and Strategy in the Water
O Da Hui Backdoor Shootout is held in honor of Duke Kahanamoku, father of modern surfing, and features a unique format in the world: all team members enter the water simultaneously, aiming to score individual points that contribute to the collective performance.
Each team surfs between three and four rounds, accumulating about two hours in the water. Only the three best waves of each surfer are scored, with a maximum of 12 points per wave. The winning team receives a trophy representing Hawaiian culture, while the top three individual surfers share a prize pool of 50 thousand dollars.
“This is the most beautiful championship to represent your team. Surfing together, the level of surfing and brotherhood rise. Also, being on the most iconic beach in the world is an honor.," assures Alonso Correa, fourth place in the Paris 2024 Olympics and proud resident of Punta Hermosa.
Punta Hermosa: Breeding ground for national surfing
The participation of several of its residents in the Inka Team The participation of several of its residents in the event solidifies Punta Hermosa as the epicenter of Peruvian surfing. This district has not only nurtured great talents but also inspires new generations who dream of conquering stages like Pipeline.
Peru and Punta Hermosa will bring their passion and talent to the mecca of surfing, proving once again that they are on par with the best in the world. 🌊
