12th Cobbles Classic Longboard Surfing Event
When: 22nd - 24th August 2025
Where: Cape Recife, Gqeberha, South Africa
Why: To celebrate ‘logging’ and the beautiful art of wave riding
The Cobbles Classic fills heats with South Africa’s hottest longboarding talent while managing to carry a community feeling. From the record number of women entering, to the incredible support on the beach, the 12th Cobbles Classic proved it is an event worth marking on your calendar.
Image: Kody McGregor
The founders and organizers have built on a winning recipe. Managing to support athletes in the water with great event management and judging while creating a space for local brands on the beach. From Zazu Swimwear’s spontaneous photoshoot, to Analogy Surfboards appearance in almost every heat, there is a palpable feeling of creativity surrounding the event.
We sent our beach slackline setup with Viper Slacklines athletes to this year’s traditional longboard event. Here's a recap of who won and what went down.
Congratulations to the Finalists, Athletes, Organizers, and Attendees
A well deserved congratulations goes to Kody McGregor, Matt Anderson, and the team involved in organizing the Cobbles event. To the crowned finalists, Coert Venter, and Mia McGregor, it was an honour to see each of you surf in your own style, showing grace and balance in each step. The heat winning waves showcased great positioning, critical nose rides, and flowing turns.
The ladies semi-final performances by Kiri, Kristy, Lauren, Michelle, Taio, Amber, Anja, Ane Mari, Francis, and Mia were graceful in challenging conditions. Equally, the Men’s semi-finals showcased the talent of Coert, Bennett, Craig, Shane, Cam, Pierre, Gregg, Guy, Ryan, and Addai.
What did we pack?
Setting up any beach line is no small feat and requires a few extra pieces. Here’s a list of the gear we used:
- 2 Slings
- 2 A-frames
- 2 Deadman Anchors (70cm wide wooden plank > 75mm x 25mm)
- 2 Soft shackles
- 2 2m Whoopies UHMWPE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene)
- A spade
Setting up a Beach Slackline
Setting up a beach slackline is the same process as setting up a 2-inch slackline kit with the addition of needing to bury wooden planks or create deadman anchors. We mocked up the setup before digging the holes for each anchor. Burying the girth-hitched planks 70cm deep, with a trench on the side for the anchor sling to lead out of the hole at a 45° diagonal.
With the A-frames laid flat on the ground, we connected the slackline through the second highest level (about 45cm above the ground) before lifting them up to add tension. This knee-high setup proved perfect for athletes warming up and beginners taking their first steps.
Things to Note
A crucial point to consider is where the high tide mark lies. You’ll want to be well away from the breaking waves when you decide to dig out your anchors.
An important part of any slackline setup is the securing and tying off of the heavy metal or anchors. We secured the a-frames to the anchor using a whoopie and a soft-shackle. When setting up the beach slackline for tricks, we use the highest position on the a-frame and lift it into position while under tension to make the slackline suitable for bouncing.