This last weekend Cabarete once again reaffirmed its title of Surf and Wind Capital of the World when hosting the first Qualifying Series event of the World Surf League on the island. It was an outstanding opportunity to show the world Cabarete’s great swell conditions along with the beauty and splendor of our nature.

Over 96 athletes arrived from various countries to compete in Playa Encuentro from March 3 to 6, 2022. 15 local athletes represented the Dominican Republic in this competition too. Despite the tropical rain conditions during the last days of the event, a lot of spectators came to support the happening and enjoy the local vendor market and festive scene.

The joy of the crowd was even bigger when the local wildcard, proven QS veteran, Manuel Selman won the event title on home soil with a fairytale victory. This marks Selman’s first-ever victory, as well as Final appearance.

This type of events is especially beneficial for our town’s development for various reasons. First of all, it puts the name of Cabarete on the world’s surfing map and thus attracts more tourists to the area. Secondly, it gives local surfers a chance to compete with elite athletes from other countries and thus motivates them to train more and get to the next surfing level. And last but not the least, it gives the local youth hope and an alternative area in which they can develop and achieve success.

Special thanks to Carambola Surf House that powered and organized this event from the very beginning.