La Vaca Gigante 2024 | Teaser

La Vaca Gigante is gearing up for what could be its monumental 10th edition, introducing a three-month waiting period.

From February 6 until May 20, 2024, local surfers and wave forecasting experts will diligently track swells in the Cantabrian Sea to pinpoint the optimal conditions for the eagerly anticipated La Vaca Gigante (The Giant Cow) competition.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Santander, Spain, this big wave surfing spectacle hinges on the presence of waves that can scale impressive heights of six, seven, or eight meters, complemented by the right mix of strength, winds, and tide.

Should these conditions align, the organization promptly issues alerts, accessible through various social networks, initiating a feverish countdown to coordinate the event situated on the cliffs of Cueto in Cantabria's capital city.

Maintaining its invitational format, this edition will feature a face-off between nine local Cantabrian surfers and nine surfers hailing from around the globe—all vying for the coveted €10,000 prize.

A robust safety infrastructure, comprising both aquatic elements like 10 jet skis and a hospital boat and land-based support such as lifeguards and ambulances, ensures the well-being of participants amidst the thousands of spectators.

Pedro García, President of Santander's Obsession A2 Club, emphasized that "currently La Vaca Gigante is the only paddle-in giant wave contest in Europe," expressing hope for timely weather conditions. "Last year, it was at the end of March. Let's see if the series of storms we will receive coincides with southerly winds and the tide that we need."

Notable updates for this edition include a streaming broadcast and a concerted effort to promote female participation. García proudly announced, "We were pioneers, and on this occasion, we have three confirmed surfers: Shannon Marie Quirk, Katie McDonald, and Laura Coviella."

Familiar faces, including the reigning champion Nano Riego and wave pioneer Óscar Gómez Ibars, will be joined by international stars like Lucas 'Chumbo' Chianca, the Tow-in Surf World Cup champion in Nazaré.

Gustavo Cubero, Cantabria's Government Tourism General Director, underscored the event's significance, stating, "La Vaca Gigante is sustainable and family tourism, making it a crucial commitment for our future."

Echoing this sentiment, Beatriz Pellón, the Sports Councilor of the Santander City Council, remarked, "For the city, it is a spectacular external promotion. La Vaca Gigante will continue, and I hope we can continue supporting it for many years."

Footage: La Vaca Gigante

Subscribe to SurferToday on YouTube
🔔 http://bit.ly/2TSO2be

Online Surf Shop
🏄🏻‍♂️ https://bit.ly/online-surf-shop