Senior Director of Surf Experience at Surf Abu Dhabi and former Championship Tour surfer Mitch Crews joins us on the pod. With the CT descending on the region, Mitch shares his insights on who's been standing out in practice-like Jack Robinson, Filipe Toledo, Ethan Ewing, and Samuel Pupo-and breaks down the high-stakes, pressure-cooker, exposing nature of wave pool competitions. Mitch and Dave dive into the groundbreaking technology behind Surf Abu Dhabi, home to the first public Kelly Slater Wave System. He explains what it was like to build the team of this world-class surf destination from scratch, refine the ultimate artificial saltwater wave, and collaborate with engineers and hospitality crews to create an unforgettable surf experience. Dave also pulls up the heat draw from Mitch's first CT event at Snapper Rocks in 2014, as they wind the clock back to his competitive roots-from growing up on Australia's Sunshine Coast to battling legends like Julian Wilson, Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, Kelly Slater, Taj Burrow, Josh Kerr, Jordy Smith, and more. Mitch reflects on life in the UAE, his deep appreciation for Emirati culture, and his brother Alex's work shaping ACSOD Surfboards, before wrapping up with your fan questions from Instagram and the Lightning Round.
