Pipeline Challenge Final Day - Sacha Spex retains Dk Title

Spex throwing down for Team Saffa and retaining his Pipe DK Title.

The Dropknee division featured a hotly contested final, taken out by South African Sacha Specker, defeating Hawaiian wave wizard and multiple DK World Champion, Dave Hubbard in second, Australia's multi talent Dave Winchester in third and Peruvian powerhouse and 2010 DK World Champion, Cesar Bauer in fourth to claim his second IBA Pipeline Pro DK victory.

Specker had a solid lead early in the final, but Hubbard and Winchester managed to find some excellent barrel rides to keep them in contention. Although Bauer never really found his rhythm during the final, he put on a show-stopping performance, pulling into big barrel over the shallow backdoor reef, keeping the beach spectators cheering on the edge of their seats. Hubbard made a last ditch effort in the last five minutes of the final, but it was speaker who managed to hold onto poll position.

Ben Player (AUS) has taken out the 2013 IBA GoPro Pipe Challenge in pumping 8-10 foot waves at the Banzai Pipeline today, defeating defending champion, Jeff Hubbard (HAW) in second, Pierre-Louis (FRA) in third and multi talented Dave Hubbard (HAW) in fourth in the dying minutes of the final. Player posted an excellent score of 8.75 early in the final for a deep set wave barrel on a left and finished it off with a looping roll. Hubbard answered back with a 7.75 and a 7.2 for two deep back to back barrels on draining left handers. The Frenchman and Dave Hubbard both managed to post a good score each 7.38 and 6.25 respectively, but were unable to lock in substantial second scoring rides. With only two minutes remaining, Player was searching for a 6.21 or better to take out the final. Scooping into a heaving Pipe set wave, the Australian negotiated his way through a long barrel and topped the wave off by launching an invert off the closeout to earn himself 7.38 out of a possible 10 points, rocketing him into first place as the buzzer sounded the end of the 2013 IBA GoPro Pipeline Pro. Victorious, Player was carried up the beach to the podium by good friends and past Pipe Champions, Ryan Hardy and Andrew Lester, accompanied by a cheering crowd of Australian supporters. Player has been competing in this pipe event for the past 19 years, claimed two world titles, and has several grand slam victories under his belt, but until today has never been able to claim a victory at the infamous Banzai Pipeline. 

IBA GoPro Pipeline Challenge 2013 Teaser

After the huge disappointment of hearing that the current economic downturn had caused the Pipeline Challenge to be cancelled due to no sponsorship, it was a great relief to find out that thanks to the social media campaign by the Bodyboarders, GoPro have signed on to save the event. So lock and load your internet and get ready for the most iconic event on the IBA Calendar, its gonna be huge! (Well done GoPro!) Frothing to see Jared and Spex cane the competition.

Volcom Pipeline Pro 2013 - Starts Sunday

The contest season on the ASP World Tour starts with a bang at Pipeline for the 2013 Volcom Pipe Pro. The 5 Star event always brings drama and great action to the start of the year and you can bet that 2012 winner John John Florence will be looking to defend his title! The usual suspects of North Shore chargers and World Tour stars will battle it out for honors, though I am most excited to see how the Saffa boys go. (Well, that's hoping some of them get in...)

Meet Pro Surfer Kelia Moniz

2012 ASP Long Boarding World Champion with a serious Hawaiian Pedigree!

Kelia Moniz, daughter to 80's pro surfer, Tony Moniz, has been fighting her brothers in the lineup for years and it shows in her accomplished results and gorgeous style. She literally dances across the water! Winning the 2012 ASP Longboard Title is just the beginning for this seriously talented surfer...

Captain Kai's World Podcast - The great surf debate!

Who will be the World Champion, Kelly or Parko? One subject covered in the great surf debate.

I have been wanting to do this show for ages! In studio to chat about the ASP World Tour judging, system and future were ASP Judge, Ettiene Buys, Surf Journalist, Andy Davis and our regular man of the industry, Wok. We covered past controversial heat results, the future of the sport, South African surfing's future and of course the Pipeline Masters and the world title race between Kelly Slater and Joel Parkinson. Mix this with some great music and you have 2 hours of great radio

Listen or Download the Podcast HERE

Meet Pro Surfer Ellie Jean Coffey

This week I introduce you to rising Australian surfer, Ellie Jean Coffey. I have been following her rise up the ranks the last year or so and she is fast making a big name for herself. Outside being a really talented surfer, she is also beautiful, being part of Billabong's Bikini campaigns, and looks like she has a fiery sense of humor! Her younger sister rips to, so keep an eye out for this future World Tour campaigner...

Pipeline Masters in memory of Andy Irons 2012 Preview

Ian Walsh, a dangerous Wildcard, charges a big set in 2011. (Photo: ASP)

It is pretty fitting that the final event of the ASP World Tour is Pipeline. So many great stories and rivalries over the years have gone down and many a World Title has hinged on this event. This year is no different, with Joel Parkinson, in the hunt for his first World Title, in a dog fight with Kelly Slater, looking for number 12, and Mick Fanning on the outside needing a miracle to take it, but hey, it has happened at Pipe before! Add to this the pack of wildcards, all Pipe specialists frothing to take down the big names from the World Tour and you have a recipe for an epic surf event. Oh and of course, the most dangerous wave in the world...

John John Florence is going to be deadly. Jamie O'Brian still wants to put this trophy on his mantel and young Sebastien Ziets leading the Triple Crown is going to be holding nothing back. Then you have guys like Kieron Perrow on the border of re-qualification and needing a massive result, well he has won last year and made back to back finals.

This could be the contest of decade with great swell forecast already for the first few days. So sit down, strap in, make sure your internet is working and enjoy...

Adam Melling wins the Vans World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach

Adam Melling putting his rail on the line for the win at Sunset. (Photo: ASP)

It was old school versus new school at Sunset as guys like Adam Melling, Ace Buchan and Kiren Perrow fought off the charge from the young guns like Perth Stanlick, Gabriel Medina and Sebastien Ziets. When the VOG (Volcanic Smoke Mist apparently.) had settled though, it was Melling who came out on top and took the win, confirming his place on the World Tout for 2013 in the process. Ziets made his second final in the Vans Triple Crown, putting him way out in front for the title and earning him a wildcard for Pipeline. Travis Logie made it to the Round of 32 and Jordy Smith got one round further to the Quarter Finals.

Exploring Kauai with Pro Surfer, Alana Blanchard

Not only has Kauai's Alana Blanchard made it back onto the World Tour for 2013, but she has her own web series. This is Episode 3, where she takes us on a tour of the remote Na Pali coastline, which is one of the most beautiful, remote places on the island. Alana and good friend Leila Hurst explore the wild coast by boat, finding hidden waterfalls, crystal blue lagoons, and towing in the boat's wake alongside dolphins in the open ocean.

30th Edition of the Pipeline Challenge is go for 2013

There have been some crazy moments over the years at the Pipeline Challenge. Some of the biggest days ever surfed out there, South Africans charging and winning and of course some gruesome wipeouts. Next year sees the 30th edition of this iconic Bodyboard event and of course SA kingpin, Sacha Specker defending his DK title.

O'Neill Cold Water Classic Preview - Santa Cruz returns to the World Tour

Jordy Smith needs a win and a change of fortune. He has won at Steamer lane before, could this be his moment? (Photo:Miller)

The penultimate event of the World Tour and we welcome back that cold water haven, Santa Cruz. Steamer Lane has produced some legends over the years, specifically in the new school air movement and one of its leaders, Ratboy Collins has a wild card. The other wildcard was won by Nat Young on his backhand and this is a good time to mention that this is one right hand point where the Goofy Footers often trump the naturals!

The last 3 contests were won by two Goofy Footers, Miguel Pupo and Matt Wilko as well as our very own power house, Jordy Smith. The wave has a big shoulder and runs through a couple of Bowl Sections that suit surfers on their backhand. While the natural footers really have to force their turns and keep super tight to the pocket, the Goofys can drive off of the bottom and go vertical into the narrow window for snaps. This is really going to suit surfers like Pupo, Wilko and Travis Logie. Hell, if the surf stays below 5ft, Travis could just cane this contest, the wave is built for his backhand. Gabriel Medina , on his current form, is going to open a can of whoop ass on the wave at Steamer Lane!

In the World title hunt Joel Parkinson needs to win. If Mick, Kelly and John  John don't make semis and Joel wins, the title is done. John John, like Jordy, knows the wave well after coming here for years as an O'Neill team rider. Mick and Joel should have few problems at the Lane, but Kelly, it should be noted, has only ever surfed one event here and got knocked out in the first round. Makes for interesting choices on Fantasy Surfer...

SANTA CRUZ, California/USA (Wednesday, October 31, 2012) – The world’s best surfers have arrived in Santa Cruz, California for the penultimate event of the 2012 ASP World Championship Tour (WCT) season, the O’Neill Coldwater Classic at the iconic Steamer Lane. A staple of the ASP’s qualifying circuit, the O’Neill Coldwater Classic has been sanctioned at the elite level of competition this season, celebrating the brand’s 60th anniversary of operations. The event will play a crucial role in both the 2012 ASP World Title Race and the requalification campaigns of the world’s best surfers and could commence as early as tomorrow.
Mick Fanning (AUS), 31, current No. 3 on the ASP WCT rankings, has two victories under his belt this season, but suffered two relatively early exits over his European campaign. After recharging his batteries at home following the last event Portugal, the polished natural-footer is out to rebound his ASP World Title hopes at the O’Neill Coldwater Classic. “I like to sneak under the radar, but the last couple of events haven’t been the greatest for me,” Fanning said. “It was great to go home and readjust and refocus. I have a new quiver of boards and I’m excited to be here.” Fanning’s appearance at this year’s event marks his first return to Santa Cruz in over a decade and the two-time ASP World Champion (2007, 2009) is excited to take on the challenges brought on by Steamer Lane’s ever-changing conditions. “I think it’s great having this event on the schedule this year,” Fanning said. “The past few years, we’ve had The Search event and you go to new places and it’s great to have a new wave every time and learn the spot as you go through the rounds. This event has been around for a long time, but personally, I haven’t been here since 2000. It’s great to be back and every surfer will be learning, so it’s going to be exciting.” Fanning will face Kieren Perrow (AUS), 35, and Dusty Payne (HAW), 23, in Round 1 of competition.
John John Florence (HAW), 20, current ASP WCT No. 4, has extensive experience in the Steamer Lane lineup despite being one of the youngest competitors in the event. Despite his history with the venue, Florence made it a point to arrive early and reacquaint himself with the break. “To prepare for this contest I arrive a few days early to get used to the cold water,” Florence said. “I’ve been coming here since I was pretty little to surf in the event and Santa Cruz is a cool place. Every year that I come here is a new learning curve for me and that’s why I came here a few days early to get used to it again. To be able to come here and watch everyone adapt to the colder water, and the Lane, it’s not an easy wave to surf, so it’s fun to watch everyone surf it.” Florence has drawn Heitor Alves (BRA), 30, and Patrick Gudauskas (USA), 26, in the opening round of competition.
Miguel Pupo (BRA), 20, winner of last year’s ASP Prime rated O’Neill Coldwater Classic, returns to Steamer Lane as a Sophomore among the world’s best surfers and is ready to defend his title against his fellow ASP WCT competitors. “It’s just great to be back,” Pupo said. “I love this place. Last year was a pretty challenging contest because we had a couple of days at Steamer Lane and a couple of days at Waddell Creek. I’m happy to be back in the water with my booties on.” Pupo admitted that the younger surfers may have more recent experience at Steamer Lane via the ASP Prime rated event of the past, but the top level of competition on the ASP WCT will level the playing field. “I think it’s good because I’ve been coming here the last four years and the young guys have as well because of the Prime,” Pupo said. “We kind of have that advantage, but the veterans have surfed here in the past too. Steamer Lane is a tricky wave and they probably know what to expect. Realistically, it’s the top 34 guys in the world, they surf every wave well, so I think it’s even.” Pupo will face Owen Wright (AUS), 22, and Yadin Nicol (AUS), 26, in Round 1 of competition.
Nat Young (USA), 21, was electric in today’s local trials, stringing together a series of impeccable backhand performances to earn his berth in the main event, marking his first appearance in an ASP WCT. “I knew it was going to be tough in the local trials,” Young said. “We have so many good surfers up here and everyone is capable of doing well and getting big scores. It was a long day and I’m really stoked. I’m against Kelly (Slater), so to be able to surf against my hero at my home break in my first WCT, it’s pretty special.” Young joins Jason Collins (USA), 38, as the two wildcards into the O’Neill Coldwater Classic.
Event organizers will convene tomorrow at 7:15am to assess conditions for a possible 7:45am start. Surfline, official forecasters for the O’Neill Coldwater Classic, have called for: Fun size WNW swell is on track for the first day of the waiting period, Thursday the 1st, although morning wind conditions look problematic before improving over the afternoon. A slightly larger WNW swell is lining up for the afternoon of the 4th through the 6th along with favorable conditions, if the storm behaves as forecast in the next few days.
When competition commences, up first will be Julian Wilson (AUS), 23, Alejo Muniz (BRA), 22, and Taylor Knox (USA), 41, in the opening heat of Round 1.

The O’Neill Coldwater Classic will be webcast LIVE via www.oneill.com/cwc/ 

Captain Kai's World on www.2ov.fm - With Sacha Spex, Drop knee World champion and Vans SA's Warbot

Sacha "Spex" your DK World Champion for 2012.

It was great to finally get Sacha "Spex" Specker into studio. I have been surfing with this guy for years now and he is truly one of the most gifted waterman in the world. Something that was backed up this year when he won the IBA World tour Drop knee division. Joining us in studio was Vans SA main man, Warren "Warbot" Talbot. Super fun show with lots of laughs...

To Download or Listen to the Podcast - Go HERE

The Friday Mix - Portugal freesurf, Red Bull Stratos & Greg Long at Jaws

Greg Long getting a serious shack at early season Jaws. (Photo: Billabong XXL)

Its Friday and that means peeps everywhere are stoked! So to make you even happier here are three videos from the world of action sports to amp you for your weekend.

First off is Greg Long, getting an early entry into the Billabong XXL awards with this massive tube at early season Jaws. The world was going crazy for Shane Dorian's wave, but then this one came along and blew it out of the water.

Red Bull Stratos was called off during the week due to wind conditions, but has been rescheduled for this Sunday, so watch this space.

The Rip Curl Pro in Portugal has had 2 lay days already, but may go live at 1pm today. Check out all the best surfers having a warm up session on Day 1.

Levi Sherwood wins in Sydney and claims the Red Bull XFighters Title for 2012

Levi Sherwood is your 2012 XFighters Champion.

Levi Sherwood of New Zealand won the Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour with a thrilling victory in the final round of the 2012 season in Australia over his hard-charging rival Thomas Pages of France. Australia's Josh Sheehan salvaged an injury-shortened season with a series of brilliant runs to take third place in the soggy conditions on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbor. Pages has turned the sport of freestyle motocross on its head with a breathtaking array of new tricks and finished second overall in the World Tour standings after five competitions on four continents with 2011 champion Dany Torres of Spain taking third.

Rip Curl Pro Portugal 2012 - Preview

Adriano is always dangerous and will be up in Heat 1 of Round 1. (Photo: ASP)

After the crazy mutant tubes in France, we need to prepare for more of the same in Portugal for the Rip Curl Pro. Supertubos is a wave that can deliver insane tubes and great punt opportunities on the smaller days. Just check the videos to see the wide variety of wave on offer at one beachbreak.

With 2 wins on the trot, Kelly Slater is definitely back in the Title hunt and he will be pretty confident going to Supertubos. Joel Parkinson is the number 1 surfer on the ratings, but he knows Kelly is breathing down his neck and after losing in the semis to Kelly in France, he may fold. Mick Fanning has done well at this event in the past and needs a solid result to put his campaign back together after a horrid result in France. Mick was looking so good all year, but wave choice let him down at the last event.

John John and Julian Wilson are my dark horses along with the Frenchman, Jeremy Flores. Jordy Smith has been ripping, but sometimes the luck is not with you. That's been his year in 2012! It will only take one win to change everything, so here is hoping both the judges and that fickle bitch, luck, go his way in Portugal.

Jared Houston charging Puerto Escondido

Saying hello from deep in the Mexican pit. (Photo: IBA/Specker)

South African Bodyboarder, Jared Houston, has been making name on the IBA World Tour and in his free surfs around the planet. They guy has the whole package. Big tubes, technical tricks and of course massive punts - don't believe me, just check out his recent trip to Mexico...

Day 1 Review Hurley Pro at Trestles

Yadin Nicol finally found his form and destroyed the fun waves at Trestles. (Photo: ASP)

The waves were fun, the light onshore allowing massive air attempts, and the surfers were pumped for Day 1 at the Hurley Pro. Surprise of the day was Yadin Nicol absolutely blowing up in his Round 1 heat with 2 of the biggest airs of the event so far. World number 1, Mick Fanning, showed why he is controlling the top spot this year with a clinical display. Kelly Slater and Jordy Smith were also in impressive form. Surprises aplenty as John John, Julian Wilson, Miguel Pupo and Kohole Andino were knocked into Round 2, after most would have thought these guys would dominate at Trestles. We now see a stacked Round 2, with many big players. Travis Logie was on fire, but unfortunately, he was unable to meet the power turns of a rampant Jordy.


HURLEY PRO AT TRESTLES ROUND 1 RESULTS:
Heat 1: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 14.30, Jadson Andre (BRA) 11.10, Brett Simpson (USA) 7.94
Heat 2: Taj Burrow (AUS) 16.00, Patrick Gudauskas (USA) 12.57, Alejo Muniz (BRA) 7.37
Heat 3: Kelly Slater (USA) 15.66, Tiago Pires (PRT) 10.90, Taylor Knox (USA) 8.10
Heat 4: Dusty Payne (USA) 12.47, Kai Otton (AUS) 12.00, John John Florence (HAW) 9.00
Heat 5: Bede Durbidge (AUS) 14.16, Joel Parkinson (AUS) 12.87, Evan Geiselman (USA) 12.50 Heat 6: Mick Fanning (AUS) 15.60, Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) 14.60, Conner Coffin (USA) 12.16 Heat 7: Yadin Nicol (AUS) 17.57, Owen Wright (AUS) 17.17, Miguel Pupo (BRA) 11.67
Heat 8: Josh Kerr (AUS) 13.20, Damien Hobgood (USA) 10.63, Matt Wilkinson (AUS) 8.00
Heat 9: Michel Bourez (PYF) 16.20, Kolohe Andino (AUS) 13.30, Jeremy Flores (PYF) 12.70
Heat 10: Adrian Buchan (AUS) 16.50, Adam Melling (AUS) 13.57, Julian Wilson (AUS) 9.66
Heat 11: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 16.30, Travis Logie (ZAF) 15.87, Heitor Alves (BRA) 13.83
Heat 12: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 16.90, C.J. Hobgood (USA) 16.17, Kieren Perrow (AUS) 8.20

UPCOMING HURLEY PRO AT TRESTLES ROUND 2 MATCH-UPS:
Heat 1: Joel Parkinson (AUS) vs. Conner Coffin (USA) Heat
2: John John Florence (HAW) vs. Evan Geiselman (USA)
Heat 3: Owen Wright (AUS) vs. Taylor Knox (USA)
Heat 4: Jeremy Flores (FRA) vs. Patrick Gudauskas (USA)
Heat 5: Julian Wilson (AUS) vs. Jadson Andre (BRA)
Heat 6: C.J. Hobgood (USA) vs. Matt Wilkinson (AUS)
Heat 7: Heitor Alves (BRA) vs. Kolohe Andino (USA)
Heat 8: Damien Hobgood (USA) vs. Adam Melling (AUS)
Heat 9: Miguel Pupo (BRA) vs. Travis Logie (ZAF)
Heat 10: Brett Simpson (USA) vs. Kieren Perrow (AUS)
Heat 11: Alejo Muniz (BRA) vs. Fredrick Patacchia (HAW)
Heat 12: Tiago Pires (PRT) vs. Kai Otton (AUS)

Jordy Smith is looking his old self.  Check this video of his build up to the event training at Trestles.

Mick Fanning claims the Billabong Pro Tahiti Title 2012

Fanning just got better and better as the contest progressed. (Photo: ASP)

After we had to wait for a full week between Round 2 and 3, thanks to no surf in Tahiti, the contest fired on the last 2 days of the waiting period. Mick Fanning charged hard to beat his good friend, Joel Parkinson, in the final and solidified his Number 1 spot on the 2012 ASP rankings. Joel did well to make it past John John Florence in the semi finals, as the kid from Hawaii was charging hard. John John will be stoked as his 3rd place puts him into 3rd on the World Tour Rankings. Joel now sits in 2nd place behind Mick and Kelly Slater, after being knocked out in Round 2 by Ricardo Santos, the wildcard, is in 4th place with Taj Burrows in 5th. Ricardo beat Kelly, Jordy Smith and Taj Burrows on his way to the Quarters and won the Andy Irons Award in the process. It was a solid performace from Mick though for the win and he will be seriously looking at a 3rd World Title now.

TEAHUPO’O, Taiarapu/Tahiti (Monday, August 27, 2012) – Mick Fanning (AUS), 31, has claimed the 2012 Billabong Pro Tahiti over compatriot and Gold Coast stablemate Joel Parkinson (AUS), 31, in classic four-to-six foot (1 – 1.5 metre) waves at Teahupo’o. Event No. 5 of 10 on the 2012 ASP World Championship Tour, the Billabong Pro Tahiti culminated in dynamic fashion today, with swell pulsing for the all-Australian Final. Fanning was put on the ropes early in the Final bout with Parkinson collecting a 9.50 and an 8.87 on his opening two rides. However, former event runner-up fought back mid-heat with an impressive 9.37 before backing it up with a nail-biting 9.50 to take the lead and hold it as the buzzer ran out. With today’s win, Fanning has become the first Australian since Mark Occhilupo (AUS), 46, in 1999 to claim the Billabong Pro Tahiti title and has further cemented himself into the frontrunner spot on the 2012 ASP WCT rankings. “It’s a 35 minute Final so I knew the waves were going to come,” Fanning said. “I just had to be patient. It’s Teahupo’o so it goes on and off. You can get two 10s in two minutes so I knew I just needed to keep my composure throughout the Final. Joel (Parkinson) is such an incredible surfer and he’s gotten so good out here. He raced out to an early lead and I knew I needed to focus on my own game plan. I got that good score about mid-heat and then was able to sell him when he had priority on one that didn’t pan out for him. The second wave was the one and it’s an incredible feeling to come back and get the win. I’m stoked.” Today’s win marks the 15th elite victory of Fanning’s career, and the second of this season (after a win at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in April). The two-time ASP World Champion is now firmly in the frontrunner spot on the ASP WCT ratings heading into the back half of the season. “Teahupo’o is one of the spots that I’ve worked hard on throughout my career to improve at,” Fanning said. “I made a Final out here before, but to come away with the win is great for my confidence and I’m in a good position heading into the next half of the year. Early days though and there are a lot of guys right up there. It’s still anyone’s game at this point.” Throughout the event, Parkinson consistently established himself as one of the preeminent backhand tube-riders on the planet. Despite an early lead in the Final, Parkinson priority decision in the dying moments opened the door for Fanning to pounce. “I held the lead in a 35-minute Final until the four minute mark,” Parkinson said. “It’s frustrating to lose that way, but you cannot fault Mick (Fanning). He’s been a true champion through the event and has proven that he’s one to watch out at Teahupo’o for sure.” Parkinson currently sits at No. 2 on the ASP WCT rankings at the halfway mark on the 2012 season. “It’s the second Final of the year for me and another good result,” Parkinson said. “I feel like I’m strong at all the remaining events on tour and I’ll shake this one off and start focusing on Trestles.” John John Florence (HAW), 19, competing in his first-ever Billabong Pro Tahiti, led the rookie charge at this year’s installment, confidently cruising into the Semifinals where he matched up with Parkinson. Despite locking in an impressive 9.67 out of a possible 10 for an impressive backhand tube, Florence was unable to find a solid backup score and finished the event with an Equal 3rd. “I’m stoked to have made the Semifinals,” Florence said. “I would have loved to make the Finals and it’s not the funnest way to lose without a lot of waves in the heat, but it’s still a good result for me. Thanks to all the Tahitians for letting us come here and surf their wave for the week. It’s a beautiful place and I always love coming here.” Florence moves from 5th to 3rd on the current ASP WCT rankings. Owen Wright (AUS), 22, last year’s event runner-up, looked poised for another Final’s berth today, posting an 18.96 to eliminate compatriot Julian Wilson (AUS), 23, and an 18.90 to oust former champ C.J. Hobgood (USA), 33, en route to his Semifinal match against Fanning. The young Australian continued his forehand dominance at Teahupo’o, netting an 18.10 in the process, but was unable to overtake the current ASP WCT frontrunner. “The waves were so perfect today that you can’t really be to disappointed in a loss,” Wright said. “I felt like I was surfing well all day and I put up a couple of 9s in my heat against Mick (Fanning) so there’s not too much to be upset about. Congrats to Mick on the win though. He’s been super impressive all event with his backhand tube-riding and hopefully I get the opportunity to return the favor at the next stop at Trestles.” Wright’s Equal 3rd finish today moves the young goofy-footer from 9th to 7th on the current ASP WCT rankings. Ricardo dos Santos (AUS), two time Trials winner and wildcard into the Billabong Pro Tahiti, was awarded the Andy Irons Forever Award for his inspirational performance at Teahupo’o this year. Despite bowing out in the Quarterfinals this morning to Fanning, Dos Santos was very emotional upon being awarded the prestigious honor. “Andy (Irons) was…is my hero,” Dos Santos said. “This Award means just as much, if not more than, winning the event for me. He is my inspiration and he is the reason I surf. He is the reason I surf Teahupo’o. To be awarded this by the Irons’ family is the biggest honor. Thank you.” Highlights from the Billabong Pro Tahiti will be available via http://www.billabongpro.com The Billabong Pro, Tahiti is made possible with the valued support of international partners Air Tahiti Nui, Sony, Xperia Sony Smartphone and Red Bull, along with our friends at Nixon, VonZipper, Mana and Hyundai. The next stop on the 2012 ASP World Championship Tour will be the Hurley Pro at Trestles from September 16 – 22, 2012. For more information, log onto www.ASPWorldTour.com

BILLABONG PRO TAHITI FINAL RESULTS:
1 – Mick Fanning (AUS) 18.87
2 – Joel Parkinson (AUS) 18.37

BILLABONG PRO TAHITI SEMIFINAL RESULTS:
QF 1: Mick Fanning (AUS) 18.93 def. Owen Wright (AUS) 18.10
QF 2: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 17.14 def. John John Florence (HAW) 15.17 BILLABONG PRO

CURRENT ASP WCT TOP 5 (After Billabong Pro Tahiti)
1. Mick Fanning (AUS) 34,750 pts
2. Joel Parkinson (AUS) 31,700 pts
3. John John Florence (HAW) 27,450 pts
4. Kelly Slater (USA) 25,450 pts
5. Taj Burrow (AUS) 24,950 pts

Red Bull XFighters Munich 2012

Tom Pages celebrates victory!

Welcome to the penultimate event on the 2012 Red Bull XFighters World Tour, in Munich. Levi Sherwood just needed to win to secure his World Title, but Frenchman, Tom pages, had other ideas. Pulling mad new tricks like "the Vault" and his patented "Flair", he took down the final against Danny Torres to win without one backflip!

Bianca Buitendag beats Alana Blanchard to win the 6 Star Movistar Pro

Bianca Buitendag on the charge to victory. (Photo: ASP)

I was back paging through a Zigzag Magazine the other day and they had the surfers rated by the other surfers in SA. Bianca Buitendag was there, but she had Sarah Baum ahead of her as best Junior Lady and she was not even on the next surfer to make the premier tour list. I remember scratching my head in confusion thinking, how could the pro surfers think this girl is not our best bet at a World Champion in the next few years? She is absolutely caning it! Just to back up my opinion, she went and defeated a loaded field of the world's best female surfers at the Movistar Pro in Peru this weekend. The win moved her into 5th place on the women's world rankings. Sarah Baum did well to make the semi finals. Alana Blanchard, the world's hottest surfer, did well to make the final, but she had no chance against Bianca...





LOBITOS, Piura / Peru (Saturday, Jul, 28, 2012) - Waves in the 2-3 foot range (1 meter) were on hand Saturday for the final day of the ASP 6-Star Movistar Women’s Pro presented by Rip Curl and Petrolera Sapet at the lefthand pointbreak of Lobitos, in Piura, Peru. Bianca Buitendag, 18, (ZAF) defeated Alana Blanchard, 22, (HAW), by displaying a powerful frontside attack to clinch her victory and win U$ 8,000 in prize money and 3,500 points, moving her up to 5th place on the ASP World Star ranking. Six surfers on the ASP World Star rating qualify for the group of top-17 ASP Women´s Tour.
Bianca Buitendag scored a heat wave total of 15.00 points (out of a possible 20) by scoring a 7.0 and an 8.0 on her two best rides over Blanchard’s 12.90 on her two highest scoring waves (7.9 and 5.0). Buitendag sealed her victory by catching a long lefthander where she showed a variety of snaps, cutbacks and roundhouses.
“I feel really emotional and very happy with my victory,” said Bianca Buitendag. “I never thought that I would make it past the Quarter-Finals, let alone past Sofia (Mulanovich) in the Semi-Finals. So to make it to the Finals and win the contest is such an incredible feeling. Alana (Blanchard) surfed really well, the waves were excellent throughout the whole week and this is the most important moment for me in my early career.”
By surfing on her backside, Blanchard was not able to keep up with the Buitendag’s rhythm throughout the Final heat. However, her Runner-Up finish in Peru secured U$ 4,000 and 2,640 points which places her in 10th place on the ASP World Star ranking and remains in the race for qualification for the 2013 ASP Women’s Tour.
“This was such a fun contest and I’m thankful for making it to the Finals,” said Alana Blanchard. “It’s a shame I never got a good second wave to backup my score, but Bianca (Buitendag) was unstoppable throughout the entire event and she deserved the victory. This was my best result so far this season and I hope this event remains on the calendar for years because the waves are spectacular and it was a great experience for all of the surfers that participated in the contest.”
Buitendag’s path to the Finals at the Movistar Women’s Pro was filled with obstacles. She defeated Philippa Anderson (AUS), 20, in the Quarter-Finals and followed by taking out the event favorite, 2004 ASP Women’s Tour champion, Sofia Mulanovich (PER) with his best performance on the last day, almost beating the records of the Peruvian in the semifinals.
“It was an excellent contest with good waves all week and I’d like to thank the Peruvian fans for all of the support they showed me,” said Mulanovich. “Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the Finals, but congratulations to Bianca (Buitendag) who surfed well during the whole contest and deserved to be in the Finals. I’m sure this 3rd place finish gives me some good ASP Star ranking points and now it’s time to start thinking about the event next week at Huntington Beach.”
The Movistar Women’s Pro was event number 6 (out of 11) of the 2012 ASP Women’s World Star Series. The next event will be held from August 9-12 at Oceanside, California, right after the final event of the 2012 ASP Women’s Tour during July 30-August 5th at Huntington Beach. The remaining ASP 6-Star events will be held in Europe on consecutive weeks. The first will be held in Spain from September 12-16 and the following two will be in Portugal, in Estoril from September 21-23 and the last event will be on the Azores Islands from September 27-30, where the top six athletes on the ASP World Star Series will qualify for the 2013 ASP Women’s Tour.
The 2012 ASP Movistar Women’s Pro presented by Rip Curl and Petrolera Sapet and is brought to you by Nosotras, Sony, Powerade, Tasa, Alojamiento Peru Hosting, Barena, Star Peru, Burn, Ron Cartavio, San Jose Rent a Car, Tablas Wayo Whilar, Xtreme Fujita Japan, Cirujano Roberto Valdivia, Mapfre Seguros and Estructuras Aro.
MOVISTAR WOMEN´S PRO FINAL RESULT:
1st – Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) – 15.00 (8.0+7.0) – US$ 8,000 and 3.500 points
2nd – Alana Blanchard (HAW) – 12.90 (7.9+5.0) – US$ 4,000 and 2.640 points
MOVISTAR WOMEN´S PRO SEMI-FINALS RESULTS – 3th place – US$ 1,900 and 2.080 points:
SF 1: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 16.25 def. Sofia Mulanovich (PER) 15.50
SF 2: Alana Blanchard (HAW) 13.95 def. Sarah Baum (ZAF) 11.40

CURRENT ASP WOMEN´S WORLD RANKING – TOP 10 (After Movistar Women´s Pro):
01: Courtney Conlogue (USA) – 9.730 points
02: Malia Manuel (HAW) – 8.280
03: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) – 7.000
04: Sage Erickson (USA) – 6.750
05: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) – 6.663
06: Rebecca Woods (AUS) – 6.530
07: Pauline Ado (FRA) – 5.980
08: Paige Hareb (NZL) – 5.910
09: Sofia Mulanovich (PER) – 5.640
10: Alana Blanchard (HAW) – 5.400