Day one brought the strong prevalent trade winds that Barra Grande is well known for, from sunrise the wind was in and it was just a matter time until it switched side-shore enough for consistent freestyle conditions.

The trials got underway at twelve o’clock and the high level of riding in the strong conditions was something both competitors and judges were impressed with. The Brazilian riders really put on a show, all of them doing their up-most to try and qualify for the main event. 317’s and Backside 315’s were the flavour of the day with many Brazilian riders performing these technically difficult tricks in the strong, choppy competition conditions. Set Texiera probably showed us the most technical heat with an S-bend 7, Backside 317 and Frontside 317, no doubt he will be one to watch out for in the main event.

The highlight of the day was un-doubtably a huge un-makeable Slim Chance flicked by Carlos Madson, Madson appeared above the kite for a moment and everyone on the beach cringed a little as he tried to make it stick. The stella performance of the 9 year old (Mikaili Thompson) who made it through the Womens trials and into the main event can not be overlooked however as she is one of the youngest competitors ever to make the main draw. It will be interesting to see both of these Brazilian rippers tear it up in the main event in the days to come.

Conditions for the following days look amazing, as usual Barra Grande has delivered a solid wind forecast and the riders will have to show their best to make an impact on the judges in these strong conditions.

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