The World Surf League (WSL) has announced that it will bring the Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) to Ireland for the first time this September. The event, titled the Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro, will be held in the seaside town of Bundoran from September 4–7, 2025.
The competition marks a historic moment for Irish surfing, as top under-20 male and female surfers from across Europe will compete at “The Peak,” one of Bundoran’s most renowned surf breaks. Additional locations, including Tullan Strand and Strandhill in County Sligo, have been designated as backup venues to accommodate varying weather and wave conditions.
The surfing event is a cornerstone of the broader Salt Water Festival, a new celebration blending surf culture with sports, food, music, and film. Alongside the competition, Strandhill will host an “Expression Session,” an exhibition allowing elite Irish surfers to showcase their skills in a freestyle format.
“This is huge for Irish surfing and recognition of the quality of surf, the talent emerging in Ireland and the importance of surfing along the Wild Atlantic Way,” said Pete Craig, co-organiser of the Salt Water Festival.
Bundoran, a long-time surfing hub and popular tourist destination, is expected to draw large crowds for the festival and competition. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and reliable Atlantic swells, the town has hosted numerous international surf events but never a WSL Junior Qualifier.
Rob Gunning, WSL Europe Tour Manager, emphasized the significance of the new tour stop.
“WSL Europe is very excited to be part of this new project. For the first time, we will be taking our athletes to Ireland and the exceptional quality waves of Bundoran,” Gunning said. “Adding such a stop to our European Junior Series is a great plus for the WSL and our members.”
Gunning also praised the collaboration that made the event possible.
“I would like to thank the organizers, Fáilte Ireland, the town of Bundoran, and all the event partners. I am certain it will be a great show and a great platform to showcase the waves and surfing talent Ireland has to offer,” he said.
The Wild Atlantic Way Junior Pro is expected to attract significant international attention and provide a valuable opportunity for young surfers to gain points and experience as they progress toward professional careers in the sport.