Surf Ranch: the home of the new reality show 'Ultimate Surfer' | Photo: Glaser/WSL

The World Surf League (WSL) and the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) announced the launch of a reality show at the Surf Ranch, in Lemoore, California.

"Ultimate Surf" will feature America's most promising surfers battling it out at the wave pool designed and developed by Kelly Slater.

The new competition TV show will eventually select a male and a female surfer to join the World Tour.

The production did not reveal whether they'll get event wildcards or will secure spots on the Championship Tour (CT).

Kelly Slater will serve as on-air talent and special host for the show, as well as lead consultant.

Candidates must be at least 21 years of age, reside in the United States, be in good physical condition, and may not ever have been convicted of a felony.

Kelly Slater: he will serve as on-air talent and special host for the show | Photo: Sherman/WSL

Alliances and Rivalries Big Brother-style

Surfers chosen by the producer to move into the final casting process must be available in March 2020 to take part in the final casting process in Los Angeles, California.

The selected participants will then join the program in April/May 2020. And they will live and train together.

According to the WSL, all competitors will compete in individual and team challenges and specific surfing disciplines - alliances and rivalries will be a part of the show.

As with any reality show, there will be weekly eliminations and a grand final with two men and two women.

"This is an unprecedented opportunity to witness some of the best up-and-comers against each other in a more direct way to see who stands above the rest," said Kelly Slater.

Surfing has, apparently, entered the Big Brother house. Hopefully, its image and reputation will remain intact as the sport heads toward an Olympic debut.

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