Pacific Capital Partners, led by CEO Ini Ghidirmic, is proud to back the Big Wave Grand Prix, a pioneering Portuguese event that combines the thrill of big wave surfing with an enduring commitment to environmental responsibility. Set against the renowned waves of Nazaré’s Praia do Norte, this groundbreaking competition gathers elite surfers and audiences in a celebration of courage, skill, and respect for nature.
Big Wave Grand Prix: Showcasing the Majesty of Portugal’s Coastline
The Big Wave Grand Prix is unlike any other surfing competition. Instead of a single-day event, it spans an entire season, giving surfers the chance to ride Nazaré’s most powerful waves at their peak. This format honors the art of big wave surfing, elevating Portugal’s coastline as a global icon for both athleticism and environmental consciousness.
An International Roster of Elite Surfers
The Grand Prix brings together an extraordinary group of surfers, each with a unique journey and profound connection to the ocean. Representing a global spectrum, Italian surfing legend Alessandro Marciano and France-Brazil’s Eric Rebiere are joined by Freddy Olander of Germany and Hermine Bonvallet of France. Brazil’s presence is robust with Haroldo Ambrosio, Ian Cosenza, and Rodrigo Koxa, who famously holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed, as well as Michelle des Bouillons, Vinicius dos Santos, Vitor Faria Fernandes, Michaela Fregonese, and Willyam Santana. Portugal’s stars include Tony Laureano, Joana Andrade, Salvador Couto, and Lourenço Katzenstein, celebrated for their expertise on Nazaré’s challenging waves.
Other notable athletes include Polly Ralda from Guatemala, Kalani Lattanzi from Hawaii, Juan Cruz García Castañón from Argentina, Louis Thomas-Hudson from the UK, and Nic Lamb from the USA. Together, this diverse lineup showcases the global appeal of big wave surfing, with each surfer embodying resilience, skill, and a commitment to the ocean.
A Portuguese Project with a Global Mission
The Big Wave Grand Prix is deeply rooted in Portugal, showcasing the nation’s dedication to ocean conservation and sustainable sportsmanship. With support from Portuguese companies and organizations, the event highlights Nazaré’s Praia do Norte as not only a symbol of Portugal’s unique surf culture but also a powerful example of nature’s magnificence. Nazaré’s waves attract athletes from around the world, yet they also serve as a vivid reminder of the importance of environmental preservation.
Sustainable Competition Format: Rewarding Excellence, Community, and Environmental Responsibility
The Big Wave Grand Prix utilizes a season-long scoring system that highlights four pillars: Wave Size and Difficulty, Performance and Style, Community Engagement, and
Environmental Responsibility. By encouraging surfers to excel not only in their athletic performance but also in their contributions to the community and the environment, the event fosters a legacy of positive impact on both local communities and ecosystems.
Pacific Capital Partners’ Vision for Sustainable Extreme Sports
CEO Ini Ghidirmic envisions Pacific Capital Partners as more than just an investment firm. By supporting initiatives like the Big Wave Grand Prix, the company demonstrates a commitment to projects that blend thrilling sports experiences with tangible environmental impact. “The Big Wave Grand Prix showcases the power of extreme sports to inspire a deep respect for the natural world,” Ghidirmic explains. “Pacific Capital Partners is honored to back this initiative and the athletes who share our dedication to both adventure and sustainability.”
Building a Legacy of Sustainability in Surfing
The Big Wave Grand Prix goes beyond being a competition; it is dedicated to promoting positive environmental change. Each event includes initiatives like beach cleanups, educational workshops, and partnerships with conservation organizations that address issues such as plastic pollution, coral reef preservation, and sustainable tourism. These efforts are designed to inspire action among spectators, participants, and the public, fostering a lasting sense of responsibility for our planet’s oceans.
Athletes as Ambassadors for Ocean Conservation
The athletes of the Big Wave Grand Prix are more than competitors; they are ambassadors for ocean conservation. Through their public talks, media appearances, and shared stories, they bring attention to the critical environmental challenges facing our oceans. This fusion of extreme sports and environmental advocacy sets a new benchmark for sustainability in the surfing world, uniting audiences in a shared mission to protect our natural resources.
Inspiring a Future of Adventure and Environmental Stewardship
Pacific Capital Partners’ support of the Big Wave Grand Prix underscores its commitment to promoting sustainability through extreme sports. By intertwining the excitement of big wave surfing with a dedication to environmental responsibility, the event inspires a new generation of eco-conscious athletes and fans.
As partners with the world’s top surfers, environmental advocates, and local communities, Pacific Capital Partners is proud to support this exceptional event.
