Tristan Roberts wins 2019 Itacoatiara Pro

Tristan Roberts claimed the 2019 Itacoatiara Pro, in Niteroi, Brazil.

The South African bodyboarder defeated local legend Dudu Pedra in the final. Brazilian riders have never won the Itacoatiara Pro.

The first event of APB's World Grand Slam Series (WGS) was cursed by the lack of swell.

After several consecutive days without contestable waves, the organization was forced to run the show in a couple of days and below-average conditions.

The heat that crowned the event's champion got underway in the pounding shore break and with only a few wave riding opportunities for each athlete.

"I am filled with gratitude. I wish I could put into words what I am feeling, but I can't. The love and support I received from everyone is almost too much to take in," expressed Roberts.

The South American leg continues with the Chilean Triple Crown of Bodyboarding: the Bellavista Bodyboard Pro (5-Star QEST), Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival (WGS) and Arica Bodyboard Culture (WGS).

The world's best bodyboarders will then travel to Australia and Portugal before wrapping the season at El Frontón, in the Canary Islands.

2019 Itacoatiara Pro | Final

1. Tristan Roberts (RSA) 12.50
2. Dudu Pedra (BRA 5.33