Surfers from Asia battled it out in small but energetic waves at the Baler International Pro, with four champions crowned on an exciting Finals Day. While Rogelio Jr Esquievel (PHL) stood out as the only non-Japanese winner, claiming his fourth perfect LQS victory, Japan still dominated the podiums.

Minami Nonaka takes out the Women's QS3000 Credit: WSL/Elecho
Minami Nonaka takes out the Womens QS3000 Credit WSLElecho

Nonaka Edges Out Wakita in Thrilling QS 3000 Final:

22-year-old Minami Nonaka (JPN) achieved her first QS 3000 win in a nail-biting final against close friend Sara Wakita (JPN). After a tight battle, Nonaka pulled ahead with a series of impressive maneuvers, securing the victory and a crucial step towards Challenger Series qualification. Wakita, while disappointed, couldn’t hide her joy for her friend’s success.

Hiroto Ohhara wins with the highest wave score of the event. Credit: WSL/Elecho
Hiroto Ohhara wins with the highest wave score of the event Credit WSLElecho

Ohhara Shines in Men’s QS 3000 Final:

Hiroto Ohhara (JPN) dominated the men’s final with an impressive 9.00 score, the highest single wave score of the event. Joh Azuchi (JPN) fought hard, but Ohhara’s consistent performance secured his second QS 3000 win and a jump into Challenger Series qualification contention.

Natsumi Taoka does one better than last week's La Union Pro. Credit: WSL/Elecho
Natsumi Taoka does one better than last weeks La Union Pro Credit WSLElecho

Taoka Secures Longboard Tour Spot:

Natsumi Taoka (PHL) controlled the LQS Women’s Final against Daisy Valdez (PHL), showcasing her signature style and securing her second win of the season. This victory likely earned Taoka a spot on the 2024 Longboard Tour.

The pride of the Philippines, Rogelio Jr Esquievel, claimed his fourth LQS win out of four events entered. Credit: WSL/Elecho
The pride of the Philippines Rogelio Jr Esquievel claimed his fourth LQS win out of four events entered Credit WSLElecho

Esquievel Maintains LQS Perfection:

Rogelio Jr Esquievel (PHL) continued his remarkable run, winning his fourth consecutive LQS event in the Men’s Final. Facing Kai Hamase (JPN) for the second time, Esquievel delivered the highest heat total of the event. While Hamase finished runner-up, his consistent performances throughout the season likely secured him a 2024 Longboard Tour spot.

Baler International Pro Concludes with Exciting Finish:

The inaugural Baler International Pro wrapped up with a thrilling Finals Day, showcasing the talent of Asian surfers and paving the way for exciting Challenger Series and Longboard Tour battles.

Didn’t catch it live? Catch up on the live streams, here.

Full results can be found on the WSL website and app.