MORE than 40 surfers will battle it out next week to try to grab a coveted wildcard spot into the main draw of the Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic.

The one-day Main Event Longboard Trials will take place on Wednesday, July 17 at Torquay Point and see 24 male and 24 female surfers vying for entry into the World Surf League (WSL) Longboard Tour event.

The trials aim to foster community spirit and offer a unique opportunity to see emerging athletes.

Locals locked in to compete include former Australian champion Matthew Lumley (Torquay), Matthew Shay (Torquay), Asha Reeves (Torquay) and Alexandra Ewen (Ocean Grove).

Ben Considine (Torquay) and Bea Conroy (Point Lonsdale) are already locked in for the main event after earning a spot by winning the Victorian Longboard Titles in May.

WSL Asia Pacific president Andrew Stark said he couldn’t wait to return to Bells Beach for the marquee

longboarding event.

“The local community really got behind the event in 2024, particularly on Finals Day, and we can’t wait to see the surf fans come and watch the world’s best longboarders once again this July especially with a few local surfers in the draw, including the winners of the local trials who are yet to be decided.

“We look forward to delivering another fantastic event in this incredible part of the world.”

The Main Event Longboard Trials will begin at 7am at Torquay Point.

Spectators are encouraged to come down and catch the action, enjoy the atmosphere, and cheer on the local longboarders.

The Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic is the first stop on the 2024 WSL Longboard Tour, where you can witness the world’s top longboarders competing at the iconic Bells Beach on their quest to the 2024 Longboard World Title.

Read more about Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic.

Read Surf Coast Times story here.

Image: Surfers will by vying for a chance to be surfing at the hallowed Bells Beach during the WSL Main Event Longboard Trials. Photo: ED SLOANE/WORLD SURF LEAGUE