SANTO STUDIO SURF DIVISION CAPTURES COLE HOUSHMAND'S POWERFUL RETURN TO BELLS BEACH

Cole Houshmand, WSL professional surfer and leader of Santo Studio's Surf Division, returned to Bells Beach as the defending champion, bringing his powerful style and technical precision to the iconic Championship Tour stop where he previously made history with his first CT victory.

From his first heat, Cole's surfing spoke with clarity. Tying with Liam O'Brien at 10.33 in the Opening Round, he found rhythm in conditions that shifted hourly. 

The iconic Victorian coastline showed its temperamental nature throughout the event, yet Cole met each session with the poised confidence that's become his trademark.

The Elimination Round saw him advance with the same measured approach—balanced power in critical sections, patient wave selection, and the fluid style that connects him to surfing's timeless lineage.

In the Round of 16, amidst a rising tide and a fired-up field, Houshmand’s run ultimately found its natural close against Australia's Morgan Cibilic. 

Though the final bell wouldn't ring for Houshmand this year, his performance reinforced what we already knew—his surfing carries meaning beyond results.

At Bells, where tradition runs as deep as the Southern Ocean itself, Cole's return represented something authentic: a champion who honors the moment, win or learn.