Duke supports the European bodysurfing scene at the first stop of the Euro Bodysurf Tour in Capbreton, France.
The beach of Santocha in Capbreton, on France’s Atlantic coast, hosted the first stop of the 2026 Euro Bodysurf Tour, a key event on the European bodysurfing calendar and a qualifying stage for the 2027 World Final in Brazil.
Bringing together talented riders from across Europe and beyond, the competition delivered a weekend full of commitment, technical skill and exciting performances — all in the spirit of a sport that connects athletes through their passion for the ocean.
Reading the Ocean, One Wave at a Time
The competition began with small, multi-peaked waves on Saturday. The Open division got underway, with riders adapting to the conditions and demonstrating their ability to read the ocean, find the right sections and make the most of every opportunity.
The women’s Ondine quarter-finals followed as conditions improved, allowing the competitors to showcase their skills and put together some impressive rides.
As the tide continued to rise, however, the waves began breaking too close to shore, forcing organisers to pause the men’s quarter-finals. Once again, the weekend highlighted one of the essential aspects of bodysurfing: knowing how to adapt to changing ocean conditions.
Sunday Finals Deliver High-Level Action
Competition resumed on Sunday, with the remaining quarter-finals and final rounds taking place throughout the day. A period of low tide brought another challenge, as the waves became difficult to ride and organisers called a two-hour break.
When the tide turned, conditions gradually improved, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the event.
In the Ondine final, Alyssa Sauvy claimed victory after an incredibly close contest. Just 1.2 points separated the top three competitors, underlining the high level of competition.
In the Open division, Ruben Cambas took the win against reigning European champion Paul Grieumard. By selecting the waves with the greatest potential and taking control of his heat, Cambas delivered a winning performance against a strong field.
The Masters divisions also produced memorable results. Ibtissame Benjedira from Morocco won the Women’s Masters +40 category, while Andre Alonso Lanfer from Spain claimed the Men’s Masters +40 title after a series of closely contested heats.
In the Grand Masters +50 division, defending champion Patrice Grieumard successfully retained his title with a dominant performance in the final.
Celebrating the Winners
The Capbreton stop showcased talent across several divisions, from the Espoir junior categories to the Open and Masters competitions.
Among the other category winners were:
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Ondine Espoir: Uhaina-Kailani Hegoas
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Espoir: Emile Wilbois
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Master +40 Ondine: Ibtissame Benjedira
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Master +40: Andre Alonso Lanfer
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Grand Master +50: Patrice Grieumard
These results reflect the depth and diversity of the bodysurfing community, bringing together emerging talents and experienced competitors on the same stage.
Duke: Supporting Bodysurfing and Its Community
At Duke, we are proud to support the bodysurfing community and events that help the sport grow. The Euro Bodysurf Tour is about more than competition: it celebrates commitment, respect for the ocean, shared experience and the passion that brings riders together.
The Capbreton event welcomed athletes from across Europe and even Australia, creating an international gathering around a shared love of waves and bodysurfing.
We would like to congratulate all the competitors and thank the City of Capbreton, Santocha Surf Club, the organisers, volunteers and partners who helped make this event possible.
Special thanks to all the event partners, including the National Sports Agency, the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region, the French Surf Federation, the International Bodysurfing Association, the Euro Bodysurf Association, Katxi Klothing, Mundaka and Cool Shoe.
Looking Ahead to Brazil 2027
With the first stop of the Euro Bodysurf Tour complete, the road towards the 2027 World Final in Brazil continues.
Capbreton once again demonstrated why the Atlantic coast is such a special place for bodysurfing: powerful ocean energy, demanding conditions and a passionate community ready to make the most of every wave.
At Duke, we look forward to following the riders throughout their journey and continuing to support the sport, its athletes and the next generation of bodysurfers.
See you in the water!
Duke Swimfins — Made for the ocean. Driven by the ride.