The Pacifico Surf Open Cerritos marked a triumphant return of competitive surfing to Mexico, with San Clemente’s Jett Schilling taking the top prize. This event, part of the World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series, was the first of its kind at Cerritos, a quiet beach break on the Pacific side of Baja Peninsula, less than an hour from Cabo San Lucas. On finals day, the conditions were ideal, with five-foot sets providing ample opportunities for high-scoring performances.
Schilling excelled throughout the competition, achieving multiple nine-point rides. In the final heat, he needed a massive score to surpass Taro Watanabe, who had already logged an impressive 9.17 and 8.53. Schilling delivered with a spectacular alley-oop, earning a near-perfect 9.73 to secure the victory. Reflecting on his win, Schilling expressed gratitude for the locals and the quality of the waves, calling the experience a confidence boost for the rest of the year.
Watanabe, who recently finished as runner-up at the La Marginal Surfing Pro, opened the final with a commanding performance but ultimately couldn’t fend off Schilling’s comeback. He acknowledged Schilling’s talent and praised the alley-oop as “insane.” Despite the loss, Watanabe considered the event one of the best of his career.
Local talent also made its mark at the event. Mexican surfer Sebastian Williams and Cerritos local Lucas Cassity reached the semifinals, showcasing their skills. Cassity, familiar with the wave, has been honing his craft by competing in California, and his efforts are paying dividends.
The 2024 North American Qualifying Series will now move to Central California for the SLO CAL Open Morro Bay, scheduled to take place at Morro Rock from December 5 to 8.