We’re Back
Winter is in full force and that only means one thing. The Clif Bar Cold Shot Challenge 3.0 presented by NySea is Back! For the past 3 years, the Cold Shot Challenge had been the premiere East Coast cold water surf photography contest, with its jurisdiction ranging from Maine to North Carolina and this year expanding to the Great Lakes, yes, the great lakes. If you have seen Dylan Graves new edit you will know the Great Lakes can offer up some meaty barrels.
The Contest
This winter, Clif bar has stepped it up offering a 9k prize purse! In addition, there will be periodic cash prizes throughout the event, not just ‘winner takes all’. There will only be only 2 categories this year, “Empty waves” and “Surfer”. The semifinals will consist of 72 submissions, 35 from each category voted on by our Judging panel and 1 “Viewers Choice” photo from each category, voted on by the public. The finals will consist of 12 shots from each category ensuring 8 photographers and 4 surfers will walk away with prizes. Click here for a full rundown of the contest specs.
History
Being the third year of the contest, we would like to send a huge thanks to all the photographers, surfers, and sponsors that have embraced and supported us. Past years have been so much fun, and with a couple of solid swells already in the books, we are stoked to see what this winter season brings.
In its inaugural year, local photographer and co-owner of Unsound Surf Mike Nelson took home the cash. Mike recently had an article written about him on Surfline which you can read here. Last year, Pat Nolan, Evan Conway, and Ryan Moore were the top dogs. You can check out a gallery of the winning photos here.
The Judges
The judging panel this year will consist of 12 professional photographers and surfers. Returning judges include Taylor Steele and Chris Burkhart. New to the judging panel this year is Sachi Cunningham, a filmmaker, photographer, journalist, and professor, who swims out at massive Mavericks. In addition to Sachi, Lakey Peterson will be getting in on the action. Lakey is one of the best female surfers in the world, finishing #2 on the WSL Woman’s world tour in 2018! The remaining judges will be announced throughout the event.
Good Luck
As always, we would like to remind everyone that if they plan on braving the elements this winter to stay safe, know your limits and most importantly… have fun. Pray for some swell!