Surfing in Tahiti

Olympic surfing at Teahupo'o, Tahiti has faced challenges as competition organizers grapple with unpredictable surf conditions and safety concerns surrounding a new judging tower. Surfline.com's Kevin Wallis is tasked with forecasting conditions, navigating the complexities of both science and artistry to find optimal competition times amid stormy weather. Controversy surrounds the construction of a new judging tower, which local residents and environmentalists fear could damage the coral reefs essential to the surf break, leading to protests against Olympic organizers. Meanwhile, Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina captured attention with a remarkable performance, receiving a high score of 9.9, showcasing the sport's growing prominence since its Olympic debut in 2020. Injuries have also impacted the event, with competitors like Jack Robinson and Johanne Defay sustaining injuries from the challenging waves. The event's continuation depends on weather conditions, as organizers aim to complete the competition within a tight timeframe.