2026 CI Surfboards Rincon Classic Pro Invitational

The 2026 Channel Islands Surfboards Rincon Classic presented by Merrick Lager marked the 44th running of this event on February 7–8, blessed with memorable swell at the Queen of the Coast.
The Rincon Classic is a yearly gathering built on tradition, history, and the people who have shaped surfing here for generations. From under-10 groms to Super Legends in their 80s, friends, families, and longtime spectators filled the rocks to watch some of the region’s finest surfers find their rhythm on the Cove’s long walls.

The contest nearly ran the weekend before in marginal conditions. Contest Director Chris Keet, with support from Britt Merrick, made the difficult call to wait when the forecast shifted. Patience paid off, and the event was rewarded with waves that will be talked about for a long time.
Every division scored throughout the weekend, but many would point to the Rincon Brewery Pro Invitational as a standout. This video highlights a few of those moments.
With special thanks to the people behind the lens:
Scott Soens (water), Jason Baffa (water), Jason “Mini” Blanchard, Hayden Garfield, Ryan Perry, Darren “Zorba” Cruz, Jenny Keet.

Also additional thanks to the Surf Happens crew for organizing such a well run event!