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A New Era in Surfing: Conor Donegan and David Pérez Shine at Lanzarote Quemao Class
The prestigious Lanzarote Quemao Class, held at the iconic El Quemao in La Santa, has concluded with an electrifying performance from local surfer Conor Donegan and Tenerife's David Pérez, both emerging victorious in their respective categories.
Over two intense days, competitors faced challenging conditions that showcased the stunning reef breaks El Quemao is renowned for. In perhaps the most competitive heat of the event, Donegan, a rising talent and one of the youngest participants, managed to edge out seasoned surfers, including Basque athletes Adur Amatriain and Yago Domínguez, as well as France's Joan Duru. Donegan's impressive wave selections earned him two standout scores, leading him to a victory that was particularly sweet as it was held on home turf.
"From the very start, I felt a connection to this championship," Donegan expressed, reflecting on his journey through the competition. His gratitude towards the local community was evident as he acknowledged their role in his success, stating, "This award is theirs too, because they’ve pushed me since I was little." His genuine connection to the waves and the local passion for surfing is a reminder of the deeper ties athletes have with their roots.
Pérez Claims Bodyboarding Glory Amid Tough Competition
On the bodyboarding side, David Pérez delivered a masterclass, consistently advancing through rounds to establish his dominance in the final heat against fierce competitors, including Pierre-Louis Costes and Alex Uranga. Pérez revealed that his previous attempts at the Quemao Class had not gone well, creating a sense of unfinished business that he was eager to settle this year. With a renewed motivation and the powerful atmosphere of La Santa behind him, Pérez seized his moment to shine.
“You know you have to take risks and give your best,” he remarked after clinching victory, capturing the heart of competition in sports where the thrill of performance hinges on both skill and courage.
Community Spirit and Tribute at the Awards Ceremony
The awards ceremony was not just a celebration of sporting excellence but also a festive gathering that highlighted the event's cultural significance. Local artist NASE performed a live set, contributing to the event's unique identity, one that intertwines sport and culture in a beautiful symbiosis.
Significantly, the event paid tribute to David Infante, affectionately known as "El Fula," a beloved figure in the surfing community whose memory reverberated through the day’s proceedings. The emotional paddle-out ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the surfers lost and the importance of honoring their legacies.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Surfing Advancement
The success of the Lanzarote Quemao Class reflects not only the skills displayed by Donegan and Pérez but also underscores the need for enhanced promotion and care for such sporting events. Jesús Machín, the mayor of Tinajo, noted the effort required to keep the spirit of the event alive, encouraging more involvement and support from both locals and the surfing community at large.
As the energy of this ninth edition dies down, the community is left with lasting memories of both triumph and respect, enhancing the already rich surfing culture of Lanzarote and ensuring that this vibrant event continues to flourish. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a curious onlooker, the call to engage with and support these events has never been more important.
In conclusion, the 2026 Lanzarote Quemao Class served as a testament to not only the athletic prowess of its champions but also to the enduring spirit of community, culture, and remembrance that defines surfing in Lanzarote. Those interested in the evolution of such events should stay tuned for more updates, as we expect this momentum to inspire future editions with even greater engagement and support.
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