The Quiksilver Surf Shop Challenge brings out the best in hometown rivalries, and with cash, prizes and prestige on the line, you can be sure every shop will be stacking its team to the best of its ability. The following are a few teams to keep an eye on as the Quiksilver Surf Shop Challenge season unfolds:

2004 QSSC Champions - Team Revolution

The Champs
Revolution Surf Shop: After taking top prize in the 2004 Quiksilver Surf Shop Challenge the title is Revolution’s to lose. With the nimble surfing of Nathaniel and Josh Curran fronting last year’s team, as well as solid performances by Jesse Mota and John Villela, Revolution Surf Shop, located in Ventura, was able to knock out powerhouse teams like Santa Cruz’s Team O’Neill and Seal Beach’s Katin to win the Northwest Qualifier. Then when it came to the finals at Lowers, Revolution stepped to the plate and knocked it out of the park. Expect a fierce defense of their crown in 2005.

The Players
Representing the Southeast with one of the most talent-rich teams, Quiet Flight should make a serious bid for the ’05 title. But the road to the championships won’t be easy, with shops like Ocean Magic, Red Dog, I.W.S. and Maui Nix all hotly contending for the Southeast title.

Quiet Flight

Out of the Northeast, last year’s finalist, Whalebone Surf Shop, has to be the favorite going into the qualifier, but don’t discount Wave Riding Vehicles, Heritage Surf Shop and Ocean Hut. From North Carolina to New York, this is one conference where bragging rights mean everything.

Whale Bone

Across the continent in California, after falling just short last year Laguna Surf and Sport is sure to make another bid for the title. But the Frog House, Killer Dana and Sun Diego are all more than qualified to come away with a victory this year.

Laguna Surf & Sport

And with the Quiksilver Surf Shop Challenge debuting for the first time in Hawaii this year, it’ll be interesting to see how North Shore shops fare against their Town rivals, but one can be sure the competition will be top-notch.