Photo by BULGENSLAG | Frithjof Blaasch
CABARETE, Dominican Republic – September 20, 2025
Day 4 of Master of the Ocean 2025 unfolded under glassy skies and cloudy weather, with small but clean three-foot waves providing the stage for the Overall Surf and SUP semi-finals. While the wind remained light, it was enough for the world-class athletes to showcase their technical skills, stamina, and versatility in a decisive day that set the finalists for tomorrow’s grand showdown.
In the Surf Overall semi-finals, consistency and sharp wave reading made the difference. Advancing into tomorrow’s final are Juan Silvestre Lena, Maxime L’Huillier, Yannick Mittas, and Francis González. Each demonstrated a combination of power and style that kept spectators on edge as they secured their place in the ultimate battle for the Surf crown.
The SUP Overall semi-finals pushed endurance even further, with athletes required to combine strength and flow in the smaller waves. The finalists are Brian Talma of Barbados, Francis González of the Dominican Republic, Maxime L’Huillier of France, Juan Silvestre Lena of Argentina, and Samuel Pérez-Hults of the Dominican Republic. With this lineup, the SUP Final promises an electrifying clash between veterans and rising stars.
The Junior category also delivered inspiring performances, proving the future of watersports in Cabarete and beyond is bright. Luca Lambertin, Luis Alfredo Cruz, Bo Bougant, Estevan B., and Blu Bougant advanced to tomorrow’s Junior Final, showcasing courage, skill, and promise in front of an enthusiastic local crowd.
On the beach, the annual Community Day added another layer of celebration to the event. Hosted at Coconut Rest in Encuentro Beach, it featured an array of cultural and environmental activities. Families and children participated in interactive sessions on coral reefs, beach safety, yoga for kids, and a lively Bachata lesson and concert with Ninafrika and La Banda de la Base. The Beach Culture Carnival, led by Barbadian legend Brian Talma, filled the sand with music, flag painting, and color, embodying the spirit of unity that defines Master of the Ocean. Young athletes also took center stage in the Future Masters Showcase, inspiring the next generation of ocean riders.
As the day wound down, athletes and fans reflected on the mix of competition and community spirit. In the words of defending champion Brian Talma, also known as the “Action Man”: “Action, Action and more Action!” — a phrase that perfectly captured the energy of Day 4.
To close the evening, the German Embassy in Santo Domingo, represented by Ambassador Maike Friedrichsen, hosted a beautiful cocktail reception at Natura Cabana. Athletes, organizers, and special guests gathered to celebrate the 20th edition of Master of the Ocean in an elegant tropical setting, blending sports, culture, and sustainability in true Dominican style.
With finals now set, anticipation builds for Day 5, the closing day of Master of the Ocean 2025, where champions will be crowned across Surf, SUP, Wingfoil, Kite, and Windsurf disciplines.
Stay tuned for more world-class watersports action at Master of the Ocean 2025!
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