Famous Ballito Pro postponed
Given the concern over the rise in Covid-19 infections
throughout the country and the implementation of level two restrictions, the
Ballito Pro has been rescheduled for early December 2021.
With the projected number of infections set to continue to increase during a third wave of infections, Mayor of KwaDukuza Cllr. Dolly Govender believes it was the responsible decision.
“KwaDukuza Municipality in consultation with various partners, taking into account the COVID-19 3rd Wave projections by experts who advise our government, have agreed to postpone the 2021 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill event to a later date,” Govender said.
“This postponement has been done as part of responsible and responsive governance, which puts public health first. The new dates will be announced after we have surpassed the 3rd wave.
“We appreciate the support and enthusiasm that has been shown by our partners, the tourism sector and our community since our announcement of the return of the Ballito Pro Event.”
The World Surf League have been heavily involved in the discussions ahead of the event and they have welcomed the decision despite it’s difficulty.
“Due to the constantly evolving situation with COVID-19, the
safety of our athletes, event staff, and fans remain paramount,” WSL Operations
Manager Colin Fitch said.
“We stand by the decision from KwaDukuza Municipality and organisers of the
Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill to postpone the event until December. We look
forward to returning to the shores of Ballito.”
The Ballito Pro is the longest running professional surf event in the world and forms a crucial part to the surfing calendar both nationally and internationally.
Conforming to medical protocol is crucial for Surfing South Africa and General Manager Robin de Kock feels the event couldn’t have gone ahead this month.
“Surfing South Africa supports the decision of the KwaDukuza Municipality and the organisers of the 2021 Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill Sporting and Lifestyle Festival to postpone the events to later in the year,” De Kock said.
“We acknowledge that this decision has been taken with the safety of the public and the participants in mind.
“We look forward to being part of the programme later this year.”
