As the sun set over Texas, so too did one of the most boundary-breaking gatherings in modern action sports: Swatch Nines Surf 2025. Hosted at Waco Surf, this three-day event wasn’t a contest, but rather an electrifying collision of surf, skate, BMX, MTB, and media—a creative playground where world-first tricks, experimental features, and pure stoke took center stage.
With Waco’s wave pool transformed into a dreamlike arena, athletes embraced progression and collaboration, testing limits and redefining what’s possible.
A Playground for Progression
Swatch Nines brought a fresh arsenal of new tools and surreal features including the Motowinch system—a self-controlled innovation that slings athletes into the air—and the Swatch Flying O, a massive circular ring suspended by a 225-ton crane, flanked by semi-truck counterweights. Below it, athletes explored a rotating Reef Fanning Shoe Wallride, reconfigured throughout the event to unlock new lines.
“It felt like a dream. You’re surrounded by people from different sports, pushing each other, laughing, and doing things nobody’s seen before.”
said surfer Mason Ho
Viral Moments & World-Firsts
From sunrise sessions to neon-lit night jams, the event was packed with high-flying moments, including two major world’s firsts:
- Hughie Vaughan (AUS) opened the event with a stalefish backflip, the first ever of its kind in surfing—quickly going viral for its snowboard-like fluidity.
- On the final afternoon, Matt Meola (USA) landed a stalefish alley-oop rodeo 540, another world-first that floored riders and fans alike.
“You felt the pressure in the air. But stomping it with everyone watching—man, that was unforgettable.”
Meola said
Other highlights included:
- Noah Beschen’s (USA) stylish switch-to-revert rail combo
- Skai Suitt’s (USA) Madonna air, blending style with youth
- Zeke Szekely’s (USA) Superman with reverse spin
- Lyon Farrell (USA) nearly stomping a double backflip on a surfboard
Night Sessions, Music & Community
The energy only intensified after dark. With DJ Dimity Stoyle spinning jungle bass under a glowing LED ring, riders jammed into the night. Waves crashed, tricks flew, and cheers echoed through Waco as disciplines melted together.
“This event is a fever dream. There’s no pressure to compete, just create—and that brings out the best in everyone.”
said pro skater Andy Anderson
Swatch Nines Celebrates Innovation
While not a traditional contest, Swatch Nines Surf 2025 ended with a celebration of standout performances, voted by the athletes themselves:
- Best Air (Male): Matt Meola (USA)
- Best Air (Female): Skai Suitt (USA)
- MVPs: Mason Ho (USA) & Zoë McDougall (USA)
- STAB Best Trick: Noah Beschen (USA)
- Best Shot (Insta360): Zoë McDougall (USA)
- Best Group Shot: Zeke Szekely (USA) & Chippa Wilson (AUS)
- WACO…It’s a Trip Awards: Mason Ho (surf) & Alex Midler (skate/BMX)
The Future is Now
Swatch Nines Surf reimagines what’s possible when action sports collide in a collaborative space.
“To be on a BMX ramp over a wave pool while a surfer hits a rail below—it’s like something out of a movie.”
As Kevin Peraza (USA) put it:
Follow the ride on Instagram @thenines.cc and YouTube @SwatchNines for full recaps, behind-the-scenes, and rider features.