Mastering the ability to switch into peak mental and physical condition at a moment's notice is one of the most challenging aspects of being a pro surfer. The importance of that talent is compounded when there's a World Title on the line, like there is for the five experienced contenders in this year's Maui Women's Pro. As of Monday afternoon, we're three days into the event window, but the women have been waking each day waiting for the conditions to become contestable.
Honolua Bay is the playing field for the 2017 women's World Title showdown. 6x Champion Stephanie Gilmore was taking a few laps on Monday morning. WSL / Damien Poullenot
Every competitor has her own way of switching on -- and off, when necessary. For some, downtime in paradise may mean Mai Tais and freesurfs. For others it means more time to ponder strategy, mental game, points tallies and toughness for the final battle. Here's how the five contenders have been spending their lay days on the spit of surf heaven of Hawaii -- from Maui to the North Shore.
Bonus rainbow. You're welcome.
Catch the five contenders, plus the rest of the Top 17 women battle at the Maui Women's Pro live on the WSL. The event window opened Nov. 25 and closes Dec. 6.
Title Contenders Keep It Cool as Anticipation Builds on Maui
WSL
Mastering the ability to switch into peak mental and physical condition at a moment's notice is one of the most challenging aspects of being a pro surfer. The importance of that talent is compounded when there's a World Title on the line, like there is for the five experienced contenders in this year's Maui Women's Pro. As of Monday afternoon, we're three days into the event window, but the women have been waking each day waiting for the conditions to become contestable.
Every competitor has her own way of switching on -- and off, when necessary. For some, downtime in paradise may mean Mai Tais and freesurfs. For others it means more time to ponder strategy, mental game, points tallies and toughness for the final battle. Here's how the five contenders have been spending their lay days on the spit of surf heaven of Hawaii -- from Maui to the North Shore.
Bonus rainbow. You're welcome.
Catch the five contenders, plus the rest of the Top 17 women battle at the Maui Women's Pro live on the WSL. The event window opened Nov. 25 and closes Dec. 6.
Stephanie Gilmore
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