Stab announced that their Stab High event is returning to its original wave pool format. The event was first run in Texas in 2018 before going to salted locations across the globe.

Traditionally a showcase for social media darling male freesurfers, the competition has evolved over the years, most recently with the addition of the Ladybirds division for girls under 18. This year they will add a division for boys.

“Monster Energy is helping us bring this one to life and this year we’re adding a Bottle Rockets division for the young gents to sit alongside the perennial stars of the show, the Ladybirds,” said Sam McIntosh. “This will be the first event at the pool and we’re excited to make our way to the Coachella Valley. This will be the first event at the pool and we’re excited to make our way to the Coachella Valley.”

Reports have been filtering out of Palm Springs to the desk here at WavePoolMag with shaky iPhone footage of test waves and guesses as to unofficial opening dates.

“With Cheyne Magnusson working the keys, we’re sure to have a proper air section for the event,” added Sam. “Our goal is to leave perfection alone, making an air section that is dumpy and rippy and confronting, like an overzealous plastic surgery.”

Sam said that with the current setup, Cheyne has already relayed concerns about creating too much of a good thing with the wave.

“Guys are flying! You approach the section too fast,” Cheyne told Stab. “They’ll end up above the wall at this rate.”

Early-release tickets will be sent to Stab premium members first.