BTMI BARBADOS SURF PRO FEBRUARY 23RD

The World Surf League (WSL) North America Qualifying Series (QS) and Pro Junior contingent prepare for the BTMI Barbados Surf Pro and Live Like Zander Junior Pro In Loving Memory of Zander Venezia Presented by Diamonds International, a men’s and women’s QS 6,000 and Pro Junior, beginning February 23 through March 1. This marks the culmination of 2026 Challenger Series qualification and a crucial second stop for World Junior Championship qualification at the iconic reef break of Soup Bowl, located on Barbados’ East Coast.

“This event is one that a lot of surfers hold in the highest regard. Soup Bowl is one of the best waves the Caribbean has to offer, and with the support of BTMI and the work that Surf Promotions Ltd. does each year, we’re excited to continue coming back,” said North America Regional Manager Meg Bernardo. “The juniors have competed at this venue since 2013, and now it’s amazing to see what this event has evolved into as the most important stop of our season. It’s a special time of year to honour the legacy of Zander Venezia and all the work his family does for the Zander Venezia Trust that touches so many lives.”

BTMI Continues Major Support For Professional Surfing Alongside Diamonds International

The Barbados Tourism and Marketing Inc. (BTMI) took over as the title sponsor of this event in 2022 and continues to show its support for professional surfing in a major way. One of the Caribbean’s premier locations, Barbados provides an array of waves, culture, and beauty that BTMI continues to help grow and develop as a worldwide tourism destination. 

“The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. is proud to partner annually with the Barbados Surf Pro and the WSL, leveraging the WSL’s global platform to showcase Barbados as a premier destination for both relaxation and adventure,” said BTMI Sports Manager Kamal Springer. “This event not only highlights our island’s world-class beaches but also promotes the diverse experiences visitors can enjoy. From surfing and sailing, to diving and other exciting ocean-based activities. Each year the competition attracts more than 500 visitors who stay for extended periods, contributing significantly to the local economy.” 

“As we continue to support and elevate this event, we also honour the memory of the late Zander Venezia, one of Barbados’ most talented young surfers. His legacy remains an enduring source of pride and inspiration, and as the Barbados Surf Pro grows on the international scale, we are sure that his spirit and impact will grow with it.”

With the return of Diamonds International as the presenting sponsor alongside support from Chickmont Foods Ltd., Infra Rentals, Insync Pros and more, the 2026 event is shaping up to be another incredible moment in Barbados surfing history. 

“Diamonds International continues to support the Barbados Surf Pro and Live Like Zander Junior Pro year after year, helping to bring global attention to Barbados and its vibrant culture,” said Managing Director of Diamonds International Jacob Hassid. “Our ongoing commitment celebrates the island’s local talent, community spirit, and rich heritage, inspiring visitors to experience the unique energy of Barbados both on and off the waves. This enduring support highlights their dedication to connecting sport, culture, and community in Barbados.”

It all sets the stage for the defining event of the 2025/2026 QS season and a pivotal second stop of the Pro Junior season, with everything on the line. The highest-rated event, a QS 6,000, can redefine a competitor’s campaign toward Challenger Series qualification. History has shown that surfers outside the cutline can make major leaps to overturn the rankings, while the rankings leaders show their dominance with incredible performances at the famed lineup of Soup Bowl.

This event also pays homage to Barbados’ own Zander Venezia, along with the North America Pro Junior Regional titles in his honour. His father, Louis Venezia, co-owner of Surf Promotions Ltd., along with fellow co-owner Christopher Clarke, put everything into this event each year to ensure it remains a premier stop for the QS and Pro Junior competitors while celebrating the life and legacy of Zander. 

“It is such an honour to host these events every year. To see the talent that passes through this event to the Challenger Series and the World Junior Championships is like a blossoming flower,” said Clarke. “In its seventh year as the Barbados Surf Pro and ninth for the Live Like Zander Junior Pro hosted by Surf Promotions Ltd., it is such a joy to welcome and have surfers come to our shores. They bring a fresh outlook to our world-class surf break.”

The BTMI Barbados Surf Pro and Live Like Zander Junior Pro hold a competition window beginning February 23 through March 1 at Soup Bowl, Bathsheba, Barbados. (PR/GIS)