Pipeline Challenger Series: World Champion Molly Picklum and 7 CT Surfers Ready to Battle

January 29, 2026 Alex Carter - Sports Editor Sport

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Event Details:

* Event Name: Lexus Pipe Challenger (a Challenger Series event)
* Location: Pipeline (a famous reef break, unlike most other Challenger Series events which are beachbreaks)
* Dates: January 29 – February 9
* Significance: This event is crucial for qualifying for the 2026 Championship Tour (CT).

Qualifying Status:

* Men: No one has clinched a spot yet, but Eli Hanneman is considered a near certainty.
* Women: Tya Zebrowski and Yolanda Hopkins have already secured qualifying spots.

Competitors:

* eli Hanneman: Current rankings leader, recently won the Florence pipe Pro QS 2,000.
* Molly Picklum: Reigning 2025 world champion, a strong contender at Pipeline (finished 2nd two seasons ago).
* Other CT Women: Gabriela Bryan,Erin Brooks,Luana Silva,isabella Nichols.
* Challengers: Most of the Challenger Series competitors have limited experience at Pipeline.
* CT Regulars: Eight CT surfers are also competing, likely to prepare for the upcoming season or enjoy Pipeline with fewer competitors.

Conditions & Challenges:

* The event hopes for the sand that impacted the 2026 Da Hui Backdoor Shootout to clear from the reef.
* Pipeline is a challenging wave, especially for those without experience.
* CT regulars add another layer of competition for the Challengers.