- WSL / Tim Hain
- WSL / Tim Hain
Chris Zaffis warming up at the Watu Karung Chris Zaffis warming up at the Watu Karung Right. - WSL / Tim Hain

The inaugural Hello Pacitan Pro QS1,000 is set to kick off with a promising forecast on the cards. The event will be held at the pristine beach of Watu Karung situated just West of Pacitan City on Indonesia's island of Java.

The strong international field of 48 male competitors has made the long journey to Watu Karung for what could be the most remote WSL event on the QS calendar. Since arriving competitors have been awestruck by the stunning beauty of the entire region which is showcased by the unique bay consisting of shallow and intense but world-class left and right-handers to each of its sides.

Rizal Tandjung warming up at Watu Karung Rizal Tandjung is the 'God Father of Indonesian surfing' and is will be one to watch in Heat 8 of Round 1. - WSL / Tim Hain

These are power packed waves and the competitors have been using the lead in days to familiarise themselves with both breaks which almost break side-by-side and into each other with a narrow channel separating them.

Numerous barrels have been ridden and now we prepare for the event to begin with a solid clean forecast on tap for the entire event. Australia's Harrison Mann is a regular on the WSL Asia QS events and he is excited about the days ahead.

Watu Karung The beauty of Watu Karung - WSL / Gilhooley

"It's an amazing location here in Java with such stunning scenery," Mann said. "The locals are incredibly nice and the accommodation is great. The waves in the area vary in intensity from fun; perfect beach breaks to seriously heavy barreling reef breaks."

"As far as the event goes, this left barreling wave is serious," Mann continued. "I feel the Indonesian surfers will have an advantage here and they could be the surfers to beat. There are a lot of emerging surfers from Indo with so much talent. It's going to be an incredible event."

The Hello Pacitan Opening Ceremony The Hello Pacitan Pro Opening Ceremony at Watu Karung. - WSL / Tim Hain

Tune in to watch live action right here at worldsurfleague.com

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