This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

Kelly Slater's Artificial Barrel: A Game Changer

Kelly Slater's Artificial Barrel: A Game Changer
Kelly Slater Wave Company

Surfers around the world are itching for a turn at the marvel Kelly Slater has just revealed -- a man-made wave that barrels.

The artificial wave doesn't tower like Cloudbreak but a video released by the Kelly Slater Wave Company shows the 11 time world champion ecstatically riding his smooth maiden voyage and getting pitted in the small tube.

Although wave pools have popped up from rival companies in several countries none has ever managed to replicate the barrels seen in nature, but Slater's company turned his vision into reality after a decade of development, drama and secrecy.

"This is probably like when I won my first title and it didn't sink in for quite a long time," Slater said.

"Seeing [the wave] I'm 100 percent positive our team built the best wave that anyone's ever made. It's a freak of technology."

The wave pool was established in a 'secret' inland location in the US but surf enthusiasts quickly became detectives in a search for the spot.

There are obvious implications for the expansion of recreational surfing but the wave pool may spark a new breed of competitions, Slater already having close ties with the World Surf League.

An increased focus on Slater's business portfolio might suggest the 43-year-old is looking at retirement, but the former champ is still impressing fans with dramatic performances -- surviving a recent 'super-heat' at the Billabong Pipeline Masters against Mick Fanning and John John Florence.

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.