Final of the APP Tour: Gran Canaria SUP Pro-Am starts in Las Palmas

Björn Dunkerbeck is one of Gran Canaria's most important figureheads when it comes to water sports. Not only because of his 42 world championship titles, but also for several years as the organiser of the Windsurf World Cup in Pozo. But Dunki is also behind the Gran Canaria Pro-Am, which runs from 3 December to 8 December in the island's capital Las Palmas: At the final of the SUP Tour APP, the world championship decisions will be made in the SUP Surf and SUP Longboard disciplines. The opening rounds and the longboard SUP will be held in La Cicer, while the final rounds of the performance SUP surfing will take place in El Lloret.

Big names in the SUP scene

With a new venue located between the two spots and a six-day programme on land, there is plenty to discover. "We will be crowning a total of six world champions in the men's, women's and U21 categories," explained Javier Macías, coordinator of the Gran Canaria Pro-Am. "We are also proud to show how perfect the island of Gran Canaria can be for all types of surfing!"

This year's Gran Canaria Pro-Am will feature many prominent names, both established legends and young talents. The main focus will be on the reigning world champions Luis Diniz from Brazil and Iballa Moreno from Gran Canaria. Both were in impressive form last year and will be looking to defend their titles in 2024. Challengers include the Salazar family from Brazil, Wellington Reis and Leonardo Gimenes, as well as a host of Japanese talents such as the Inoue family and junior champion Kapono Fukuda.

Others to watch out for include Luchy Cosoleto from Argentina, 2022 World Champion Benoit Carpentier, his French compatriot Clement Roseyro, Juan de los Reyes from Spain and, of course, Sebastian Gomez from Peru. Among the women, Aline Adisaka from Brazil should not be underestimated, but also the up-and-coming Frenchwoman Camille Dubrana, especially in the longboard SUP division.

Gran Canaria as a water sports destination with eternal spring

"This World Championship has established Gran Canaria as the venue for the final and has established the reputation for SUP fans," said the Minister for Tourism, Carlos Álamo. He invited the residents of Gran Canaria and all visitors to enjoy the spectacle in Las Canteras. In addition to the heats on the water, there will also be food trucks, music and a video screen.

"For Turismo de Gran Canaria it's clear: SUP is becoming more and more popular, we have numerous schools and services related to surfing here on the island. This gives us one more reason to continue focussing on these events, which make Gran Canaria a popular tourist and sports destination all over the world. Our climate offers constant spring even in mid-December, the idyllic conditions in our town and on our island are ideal for amateurs and professionals," added Carlos Álamo.