The Puerto Viejo Open Pro surf competition is set for May 15th, 2010. The entire event is planned and organized exclusively by local surf instructor and legend Alberto “Beto” Miguel Torres Speranza. This much anticipated event is guaranteed to bring the best of the best in surfing to the area, and will surely prove to be an amazing experience.

The competition began back in July of 06’ and was first dubbed as the “Legalize” Surf Tournament. The idea behind the competition was to simply bring friends together for a day of partying, music and spectacular surf. It soon proved to be a huge success and therefore grew bigger and bigger each year with the support of the community growing as well. Competitors and spectators alike, from all over the world, come together for a day of friendly competition, stunning talent and gorgeous views.

It’s no secret that the waves of the Puerto Viejo area are ideal for both experienced and first time surfers. The types of waves are changing daily and therefore prove to be the ultimate location for all levels. The Puerto Viejo area has been hailed as “the best waves in all of Costa Rica”, and Beto will be the first to confirm this. Also according to Beto, the last event held on January 30th, 2010 had “the best waves ever”.

This month’s competition titled “Jah First” is set to begin at 8am at the Hotel Totem. It is located across from the lifeguard tower in Playa Cocles, just minutes from Puerto Viejo. As an added bonus, try and locate Beto prior to the competition, and receive a voucher good for 1⁄2 off hotel rates for Hotel Totem! The entry fee for those who wish to participate is only $30.00 which includes an event t-shirt, food, drinks and a spot in the competition. Anyone is welcome to enter, and it is recommended you register one day prior (May 14th) at Reggaeland, which is located below Chile Rojo in Puerto Viejo.

There are over $1500.00 in prizes to be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place along with major bragging rights. Heats are divided into the 16 & under group and the Open heat for all others. Women are also encouraged to compete, either along with the men, or if enough women enter, a heat will be designed exclusively for them. 3 judges are selected ranging from those with old school surf experience and style, to the new age younger surfers. This diversity provides the judging panel the opportunity to utilize their own personal experiences and ability to evaluate the skill of the competitors, in harmony. Judges take the competitors style, level of risk, wave choice and determination all into consideration when choosing the winners along with a multitude of other factors. This will be an exciting all day event on the beach filled with food, drinks, music, and surf. Be sure to arrive early and claim your spot in surfing history!

This amazing experience IS NOT TO BE MISSED, and is made possible by the generosity and support of the community residents and businesses along with the undying passion that Beto holds for surfing. Please ensure these types of happenings can continue and keep supporting local businesses… Pura Vida!

“I don’t care who wins, I just want the best surfers to be recognized…” -Beto