Manuel Lezcano, a renowned local surfer from La Santa, is one of the confirmed athletes for the 9th edition of the LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS, the event that will once again bring together the best national and international surfers and bodyboarders in Lanzarote.
Since he was a child, Lezcano lived closely with the essence of this wave thanks to his father, who took him to observe it on epic days. Over time, his connection with Quemao deepened: "When I started surfing it, I already had everything pretty clear, and I surfed many hours every day on other waves on the island, so it was incredible to take the step and enjoy it from so early," he recalls.
The LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS has grown enormously since its inception, according to Manuel, thanks to its unique format, which prioritizes optimal sea conditions and attracts the best surfers and bodyboarders in the world by invitation. "The championship has always had an incredible impact on the world of surfing. Although it doesn't belong to any circuit, the wave itself is the biggest draw. It has always been an event to consider for everyone," he highlights.
For a local like Lezcano, competing in his own wave is a challenge. Although knowing every detail of the Quemao wave is an advantage, it also implies added pressure. "From the first year of the event, I was clear that changing the chip and competing in the wave that has given me the most joy and great moments would be complicated, because my usual objective in the wave is very different from the objective of a heat in competition. But I really enjoy the event and every wave equally," he assures.
And this wave is known for its power and spectacularity. "In the sporting aspect, I work hard to adjust my boards as much as possible for each type of condition and to be physically prepared for the season. Also, I organize myself so as not to miss a minute of the days when the wave breaks, since there are very few per year."
For Lezcano, the pool of surfers from Lanzarote is a source of pride: "Right now we have one of the best pools in the world. Young people are prepared for everything they set their minds to." In addition, the LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS has inspired new generations since its inception: "Many of those who are now on the list of competitors, and will be in future editions, started by entering the water with us to take the spare boards during the competition. They have been living it closely for years and learning from the best for when their turn comes."
The LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS not only positions Lanzarote on the map of international surfing, but also reinforces its identity as a destination for world-class waves. Manuel applauds the role of the Cabildo de Lanzarote and other local institutions in this success: "They finally have a really interesting project for the local surfer. This benefits both the pool of surfers and surfing in general on the island."
Beyond the competition, the LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS is an opportunity to show the world the essence of Lanzarote. "For years, the island has been recognized for its waves, first with the best in the world training here, then with tests of the world league, and now with this event," explains Manuel, highlighting the impact it has on the international projection of the island.
With the fishing village of La Santa as the setting and a pool of renowned surfers, the LANZAROTE QUEMAO CLASS continues to consolidate itself as a global benchmark, offering an experience that combines sport, nature and culture.
Manuel Lezcano, one of the surfers confirmed for the 9th edition of the Lanzarote Quemao Class
From a young age, the athlete lived closely with the essence of this wave thanks to his father, who would take him to observe it on epic days.
