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South Africa’s longest-running celebration of surf culture, Rolling Retro, returned to the iconic shores of Llandudno Beach this past weekend. In a landmark year for the event, 2026 marked the debut of Monster Energy as the headline sponsor, providing an elevated experience for both competitors and the massive crowd in attendance.
Over 100 surfers descended upon the amphitheatre of Llandudno to compete in a unique “Teams of 5” format. The entry list read like a “who’s who” of international surfing, featuring World Title contender Jordy Smith, global free-surfing icon Mikey February, former winner Dale Staples, and Monster Energy’s elite young riders, Eli Beukes and Brendan Gibbens.
A Legacy Honoured
The 2026 edition carried profound emotional weight, dedicated to the memory of beloved Rolling Retro commentator and friend, Ilan Sheer, who passed away in 2025. Despite a lacklustre swell forecast, the “Ilan energy” seemed to prevail, as the ocean delivered fun, contestable peaks and pristine weather conditions for the duration of the event.
Where History Meets High Performance
True to the event’s roots, competitors drew from a curated collection of vintage South African surfboards, riding literal pieces of surf heritage.
“I am having the best day ever,” said Mikey February. “Every heat, I’m choosing another piece of history off the rack. Surfing a different vintage board every time I paddle out feels incredibly special.”
While the professionals showcased world-class skill on retro equipment, the heart of the day belonged to the “Future Legends” heat. Featuring the 4-to-6-year-old children of Smith, February, and friends, the heat signalled a full-circle moment for the South African surf community.
“It brought tears to my eyes,” noted event organizer Kai Linder. “To see the past, present, and future of the sport all together on one beach was moving.”
The Showdown
The competition was fierce across all divisions. The women’s teams, Hunnies and Spice, delivered standout performances to reach the quarterfinals, while teams Sealand, Seamen, and Vudu pushed the limits of the vintage craft.
However, the final came down to a clash of titans. Despite a valiant effort from the West Coast Boardriders, the “firepower” of the Dad Bods – consisting of Jordy Smith, Mikey February, Frank Solomon, Dale Staples, and Matt Kruger – proved insurmountable, securing them the 2026 title.
The celebrations moved to the Llandudno Lifesaving Club for the official prize-giving, where the Silverland Band kicked off a night of retro-themed festivities that lasted long after the sun dipped below the Atlantic horizon.
Sponsored by Monster Energy, Hey Dude, Sealand, Vudu Surf, Apostle Lager, The Shack Llandudno.
Rolling Retro 2026 Official Results and Awards
• 1st Place: Dad Bods
• 2nd Place: West Coast Boardriders
• Best Male Surfer: Connor Slijpen
• Best Female Surfer: Kiera Hoffman
• Best Wave: Paul Sampson (Move: Superman Air)
• Best Grom: Ben Esterhuize
• Balance Board Challenge: Olivia Prinsloo (16.07 seconds)
• Monster Energy Surfer Draw: Emily Winter
Special Mentions (Junior Standouts): Ziggy Smith, Carter Kruger, Miles February, Seb Solomon, Knox Staples, Koa King, Ceany Collier.
Photos by Eric Palmer.
