Slade Prestwich and Luke Thompson are the two remaining South Africans in the men’s Ballito Pro pres. by O’Neill surfing competition

This after Salt Rock’s Shane Sykes and other “Saffas” Nate Colby and Adin Masencamp were knocked out during the round of 48 today.

It was a generally low scoring day in windy conditions, but Prestwich and Thompson managed to carve out some impressive displays.

Prestwich won the first men’s heat of the day with a score of 12.07, followed by Hawaiian Keanu Asing (8.74).

Thompson continued the good start, making it through heat six against fierce competition.

All four surfers in the heat were within 1.5 points of each other, with Brazilian Mateus Herdy (12.70) just edging out Thompson in second place (12.40).

Earlier in the day, the final women’s heats were concluded with the two remaining South Africans who had yet to surf, Sarah Scott and Gabriella Herbst, also knocked out.

This leaves already qualified Zoe Steyn and Sarah Baum to carry local hopes in the women’s round of 32, which will start tomorrow morning dependent on weather.

Steyn and Baum are drawn together in heat four against two surfers who have both had Championship Tour experience, Australian Macy Callaghan and American Alyssa Spencer.

To follow their progress, get down to Willard Beach tomorrow or keep an eye on the World Surf League website where all surfing action is livestreamed.

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