Selena Moberly rides ahead of huge crashing wave during the third heat of the first day of the Triple Crown Surf contest.

The first round of the Triple Crown surf contest took place on March 10, with record setting results for participation. While the points are still be tallied to determine exactly how many people will progress to the second round in Garza there are four people with confirmed spots.

Vibert Wingrove Barrantes won men’s open, Jessie Carner won the women’s open, Kevin Montiel won the juniors and Esteban López took first in the long board section. The waves at Ostional were very good barreling in at 5-6 feet.

According to Esteban Lopez Paniagua, owner of the Nosara Tico Surf school who organized the event, there were 55 competitors. “That is the biggest surf competition here,” he said adding that he felt the day was a success.

The contest continues at Out Reef on Playa Garza on March 17.

Michael Alvarez heads into the water for the second heat.

Christian Santamaria carves through a wave during the third heat of the first day of the Triple Crown Surf contest.

People in the audience play with a dog to pass the time, because of low tide the surf action occurred very far from the beach.

Keilor Molina Espinoza hits a big wave during the first heat