Sunrise start to ESA’s 2025 Southeast Regionals Photo: MEZ/ESM
Melbourne Beach, Florida – The ESA’s 2025 Southeast Regional Surfing Championship held this past weekend at Melbourne Beach, Florida was a resounding success. Competitors from the entire state of Florida, Alabama, and Georgia converged to showcase their talents and vie for a coveted invitation to the ESA’s Easterns Surfing Championship, scheduled for September.
Surfers of all ages and skill levels took to the waves, with standout performances in the Open Shortboard and Open Longboard divisions. The Surfline forecast proved accurate, predicting the best waves on Friday and Saturday. Consequently, the event organizers implemented double beaches to ensure every division could capitalize on the optimal conditions. Full results may be found on the LiveHeats event link.
Mens Open Shortboard champion and ESA All-Star Jay Weyer from ESA North Florida. Photo: MEZ/ESM
“I’m so stoked to take first in the Men’s Open Shortboard especially since it’s the one division with guys of all ages competing including my brother and my surf coach Jason Motes,” 14 year old Jay Weyer said, how may be one of ESA’s youngest competitors to win this division. “I’m so glad there were great waves for my final, and getting chaired up the beach was the coolest feeling.”
“I’m entirely grateful to have won the Jr Women Longboard for a fourth consecutive year,” said ESA All-Star and longboard standout Madison Bennett. “I continue to push myself to grow and strive as each year comes with new challenges and competition.” Bennett also claimed third in the Womens Open Longboard division.
Participants and spectators alike enjoyed the warm Florida weather, with Caribbean Breeze providing t-shirts, beach coolers, and superior sunscreen as prizes. The event not only highlighted competitive spirit but also fostered a sense of community among surf enthusiasts. The live webcast by Delmarva Aerial 360 is available to watch on SurfESA youTube.
ESA All-Star Madison Bennett on her way to win a 4th consecutive Jr Women Longboard title. Photo MEZ/ESM
Looking ahead, the next qualifying event will be held from April 25-27 at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, NC, catering to the Mid-Atlantic Regionals. The anticipation builds as surfers prepare for another opportunity to demonstrate their prowess and secure their place in the Easterns Surfing Championship.