Triumph at Nazare: Big Wave Titans Conquer the Giants

The Nazare Big Wave Challenge concluded with Brazil's Lucas Chianca and France's Justine Dupont emerging victorious amidst massive waves. Chianca survived two severe wipeouts, while Dupont showcased skillful surfing. The event in Portugal featured nine two-member teams and drew in thousands of spectators but faced delays due to fog and a power outage.

Brazilian surfer Lucas "Chumbo" Chianca overcame two intense wipeouts to clinch the Nazare Big Wave Challenge title amid enormous, pristine waves in Portugal on Saturday. Joining him in victory, Justine Dupont from France reaffirmed her status as the world's top female big wave surfer by winning her second consecutive title.

The event saw nine teams of two, utilizing jet skis to tow one another into waves reaching heights of 60 feet, thrilling thousands of fans gathered along the cliffs of Praia do Norte. The combination of Portugal's Nic von Rupp and France's Clement Roseyro secured the best team performance.

Chianca set an electrifying pace by tackling a giant wave from the outset, which resulted in a dramatic wipeout. He credited jet ski rescue driver Sebastian Steudtner for prompt life-saving action. Meanwhile, Dupont successfully navigated her top scoring waves, displaying her prowess on the long left-handers. However, the competition faced interruptions due to fog and a technical glitch, leading to an early conclusion.

(With inputs from agencies.)