Surfer: Caitlin Simmers. Photo: Ryan Miller. The surfing world delivered its equivalent of a standing ovation when Caitlin Simmers won the 2024 Pipe Masters. To claim surfing’s most coveted event, the diminutive Californian, who’s barely a nudge over fifty kg’s in a wet jersey, had surfed Pipe with all the pluck and precision it demands. Admittedly, she was spurred on by a field of women who were determined to own their moment at what is still arguably the world’s most challenging wave. As Simmers dropped her now famous tag-line for the cameras ‘Pipeline for the fu&*%in girls’ it was clear a new door had been blasted open. However, while Pipe was a fitting stage upon which to crystallize the evolution, much of the real work is done away from the glossy WSL zone. The only way to become a genuinely good barrel rider is to seek out waves with steep entries and round sections that demand you keep surfing rather than ‘just standing’ to make the exit. It doesn’t get any more technically difficult than The Box in WA (pictured). Don’t be deceived by the glasshouse allure of this shack. There’s no arrival at this hollow junction without serious commitment and pinpoint rail-engagement. Caity has been putting her time in out at The Box for a couple of seasons now. Obviously, it’s paying dividends.
Lightbox – Issue 598
- • WRITTEN BY Tracks
STAY IN THE LOOP
Sign up to our newsletter & get social
