The longest-running celebration of South African surf culture returned in style as Rolling Retro 2026 lit up the shoreline of Llandudno. With over 100 surfers paddling out on vintage South African surfboards and Monster Energy stepping in as headline sponsor, this landmark edition delivered pure nostalgia, high-performance flair and heartfelt tributes.
Legends, Locals & Classic Lines
The Retro lineup was stacked. Surf heavyweights like Jordy Smith, Mikey February, Frank Solomon and Dale Staples shared waves with a passionate crew of Cape Town locals, trading turns on classic retro shapes.
The event embodied what Retro is all about: fun, freedom and flow. With no strict priority rules and a focus on enjoyment over competition, surfers embraced boards from different generations — celebrating the roots of modern surfboard design.
“Retro, I think it’s just all about having fun… Trying all the boards from different generations… sharing that love, sharing the stoke of surfing.”
As heard in the video
A Heartfelt Tribute
Rolling Retro 2026 also honoured the late Ilan Sheer in a moving tribute, reminding everyone that surf culture is built on community, legacy and respect.
The Showdown & The Future
The final saw the “Dad Bods” take on the “West Coast Boardriders” in an electric showdown. In the end, experience and style triumphed.
Official Results:
- 1st Place: Dad Bods (Jordy Smith, Mikey February, Frank Solomon, Dale Staples, Matt Kruger)
- Best Male: Connor Slijpen
- Best Female: Kiera Hoffman
- Best Wave: Paul Sampson (Superman Air)
The “Future Legends” heat also showcased the next generation of South African surfing talent, proving the sport’s future is in good hands.
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Supported by Monster Energy alongside Hey Dude, Sealand, Vudu Surf, Apostle Lager and The Shack Llandudno, and with a big shoutout to OSP Events, the 2026 edition once again proved why Rolling Retro remains a cornerstone of SA surf culture.
With sun-soaked conditions, classic boards and a lineup of legends, Rolling Retro 2026 wasn’t just a competition — it was a celebration of surfing’s past, present and future.
Photo’s Credit: Eric Palmer / Monster Energy; Protect The West Coast; Karma; M-Experiment; Sharkbanz
