THE OFFICIAL ASP TOUR GUIDE OWEN WRIGHT, OFFICIALLY BARRELLED AT TEAHUPOO. ASP/ROBERTSON
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INTRO
BASKING IN THE GOLDEN ERA IT’S THE BEST TIME IN HISTORY TO BE A SURF FAN
You are living in the Golden Era of the surfing spectator. To begin with, new performance thresholds are reached at every event. Reflect for a moment on the run of contests last year that included flawless power surfing at the Rip Curl Pro Bells, heart-stopping barrels in the Billabong Pro Tahiti, aerial mastery at the Quiksilver Pro New York, and a seamless choreography of turns in the Hurley Pro Trestles. Within those events we witnessed what was arguably the best surfing of any kind ever performed in contests. Not surprisingly, watching pro-surfing has become the most pleasurable of past-times. Expanding on the locations, there is no disputing several of the planet’s best surf breaks appear on the ASP schedule, thus creating the opportunity for those sublime moments, where the world’s best surfers find themselves in their peak performance zone at the very same instant the wave is at its most perfect. At such times there is a secondary kind of competition taking place alongside the heat itself; one between the wave and the surfers, where we must determine which is the most amazing. On a heavy day at Teahupoo or Pipe, it is almost like deciding whether to cheer for the matador or the bull. The return of Fiji as a WT venue with the Volcom Pro is a move which will make goofys on tour wiggle their toes with delight and guarantee us surf voyeurs have another world-class wave at which to ogle. Fans should also be mindful of the fact that they are living in the era of The King – Kelly Slater. Some mainstream hacks might not agree but in all reality witnessing Slater compete live is an experience on par with saying you saw Ali fight. Decades from now it will be the sort of story you regale with pride to your surfing grandkids. Kelly is as ever cagey about his commitment to the World Tour but his peers are all too aware this is when he is at his most dangerous. One thing is for certain, Kelly will be front and centre at the Quiksilver Pro on the Gold Coast. If you have never seen him surf in the flesh then I suggest you find a way to plant yourself front-row on the sand at Snapper Rocks in late February. For those who can’t make it to an event in 2012 there’s no reason to fret. Surf companies are engaged in an arms race to make their webcast coverage better than their competitors. While this means consistency sometimes takes a back seat,
KELLY WILL NO DOUBT KEEP THE FANS GUESSING IN 2012, BUT IT’S UNLIKELY HE WILL TURN HIS BACK ON THE TOUR ENTIRELY. ASP/CESTARI
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
the competition drives constant improvement. Last year Billabong won major props when their heat analyser successfully superseded the heats on demand system at the Billabong Pro Tahiti. No doubt this year, each of the event sponsors will have a few surprises in store for their web coverage. Even more exciting is the announcement by Fuel TV that they will be televising every event [Only the O’Neill Coldwater Classic awaits a sign-off as we go to print] on this year’s men’s tour. Forking out for Fuel never seemed more appealing. In light of this important development I am predicting the number of surfer sickie days to reach an all-time high during contests with compatible time zones. If you only have one TV set it’s probably worth investing in a second, just so the missus can’t come between you and your live surfing. If Fuel is still beyond your budget then start hassling the local publican to make sure at least one of the sets is dialled into the surfing. What better way to spend an afternoon or an evening than watching the surfing over a few beers with mates? And for the passionate fan the fun doesn’t stop when the hooter sounds. Hundreds of sites allow you to post comments and play an interactive role in every piece of action that unfolds on tour. Our own Tracksmag.com will be there the whole way, riding the wave of opinion and delivering our own take on what transpires on the tour. Finally this guide should make reference to the fact that the ASP has abandoned their controversial mid-year cut off for 2012. That’s good news for new qualifiers Yadin Nicol, Kolohe Andino and their fans. The two highly anticipated WT rookies will have a full year to make an impact on the top tier tour. Will Slater rally for 12 in 2012 or can someone win a title against a fully involved Kelly – a far more satisfying prospect than winning with the King only quasi-committed? Is it possible that an 18-year-old Gabriel Medina, who won two events in his first half-year on tour, can boldly challenge for a world title and become the youngest surfer to hold the crown aloft and the first Brazilian? And who will challenge the infinitely gifted Carissa Moore for the women’s world title? Both the men’s and women’s 2012 tours will be intriguing to watch. We hope this guide helps you get tuned in. X
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
TOP 34 MEN
TOP 34 MEN
MEET THE WORLD’S TOP CONTENDERS FOR 2012 NOTE: THE FOLLOWING RATINGS ARE BASED ON WHERE THE SURFERS FINISHED ON THE ONE WORLD RANKING SYSTEM AT THE END OF 2012, NOT WHERE THEY FINISHED IN THE WORLD TITLE RACE.
1
KELLY SLATER
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 40 Form Guide: With 11 world titles to his name it would seem the greatest competition surfer in history has nothing left to accomplish. However, in 2012 another potential agenda bodes ominously for his competitors – Kelly turns 40 this year and given his appetite for statistical achievements could quite easily fall in love with the idea of winning a world title in his fourth decade on the planet. Much will depend on how Kelly starts the year. If he has even a sniff of a world title by the mid-way point then you can bet the killer instinct will kick in and Kelly will be hunting 12 in 2012.
Tracks fact: When quizzed about how he designs his boards Kelly told Tracks, “I just design based on where my mind goes on a wave.” ASP/ROWLAND
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
2
JOEL PARKINSON
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 30 Form Guide: Joel Parkinson was the most owned Fantasy Surfer [Fantasy Surfer is Surfer magazine’s creative, online surf-tipping competition] of 2011. At 79.89% this statistic is a telling one – Parko was expected to win the title. After his crushing win at the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach however, his 2011 campaign was thwarted by missed opportunities. Despite these early round exits, most notably in the Billabong Pro Tahiti and the Quiksilver Pro France, ‘the best surfer on tour never to win a title’ still finished runner-up to Kelly Slater. With his physical preparation near perfect and a savvy coach in Luke Egan by his side the powerful and supremely stylish natural footer needs to be more ruthless in his early round heats to go one better in 2012. Parko, with two seconds from the last two events, is the form surfer going into the Gold Coast. Tracks fact: If, like Kelly Slater and Andy Irons, Joel’s middle name became his first, he’d be known as Leslie Parkinson (Les for short).
ASP/cESTARi
3
TAJ BURROW
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 33 Form Guide: At his best Taj is a light-speed blur of dynamic manoeuvres with a contemporary tweak. He favours waves like Snapper Rocks, where his acceleration through turns always dazzles. Taj also adapts to random beach breaks better than most on tour and he will look back to his 2011 loss to Adriano De Souza in Brazil as a major missed opportunity. For therein lies the rub for Burrow. Although he is frequently the best surfer in events, he often lacks the focus and timing to peak when it really matters. One of the best never to win a world title. Any suggestions he is getting too old have been rendered irrelevant courtesy of Slater’s world title victory at 39. TRACKS FACT: When Taj first qualified for the tour as a teenager in 1997, he declined the offer, claiming he needed more time to mature.
ASP/kiRSTiN
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TOP 34 MEN
4
GABRIEL MEDINA
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 18 Form Guide: At his second event as a fully qualified ASP World Tour surfer Gabriel crushed the then 10-time world champion Kelly Slater in the quarter-finals of the Quiksilver Pro France. It was a telling blow. Gabriel went on to win the event and secure his reputation as a bona fide threat to any title race. The once skinny lightweight has bulked up sufficiently to match the best surfers on tour power for power – add to that his explosive and exciting aerial game and the teenage Brazilian is poised to become his proud country’s first ever world champion. Tracks fact: Maresias Beach, where Medina is from, has a population of around 50,000 that doubles in summer and is considered a spot for the rich and famous.
ASP/KIRSTIN
5
OWEN WRIGHT
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 22 Form Guide: Nothing other than a world title will satisfy Owen Wright in 2012. His three consecutive finals with Kelly last year at [Teahupoo, New York and Trestles] created the setting for the most compelling rivalry in recent pro surfing history. Although Owen only claimed one of the three encounters he still proved he is capable of beating the ‘King’ when he is in world-title-winning form. Owen’s arsenal includes the full combination of aerials and power turns and last year was the only surfer with a repertoire on par with Kelly’s, in a contest setting. If he can make a solid start in the rights on the Gold Coast and at Bells, and hit event number four [Fiji] in a good position, then his campaign will be right on track. Tracks fact: Last year Owen claimed the biggest contest cheque ever awarded in surfing – $300,000 for winning the Quiksilver Pro, New York.
ASP/ROWLAND
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
6
ADRIANO DE SOUZA
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 25 Form Guide: Adriano is a feisty competitor who has a passion for surfing so deep his emotions can sometimes get the better of him. But who doesn’t want to see more passion from their sporting heroes? De Souza was the youngest surfer ever to win an ASP Junior Championship at age 16 and has been fighting for the big one ever since he qualified in 2006. At just 25 he is the unofficial team leader of the current crop of Brazilian qualifiers and has a honourable appreciation of what surfing has given him. The surefooted Brazilian knows how to win, a point he proved last year when he defeated Kelly Slater in the final of the Rip Curl Pro Portugal. Always a threat and always giving 110% Adriano’s breath will be hot on the neck of anyone brave enough to get ahead of him in the ratings in 2012 – that’s a fact. Tracks fact: Last year at Bells Beach Adriano (like a grommet) chased the autographs of his fellow surfers and legends for his Bells: The Beach, The Contest, The Surfers book.
ASP/CESTARI
7
TOP 34 MEN
JULIAN WILSON
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 23 Form Guide: With his wardrobe of brightly coloured suits, a cache of cutting edge manoeuvres and pin-up boy looks, Wilson is always exciting to watch and has a big fan base amongst the male and female quarters. Beneath the dazzling showmanship is a highly determined competitor who has successfully shifted his focus from nailing free-surfing clips to claiming big results on the world tour. Such is Wilson’s will to win that he at times makes rash, costly decisions. He could have closed the door on Medina in the final of the Quiksilver Pro France last year and squandered a chance of winning at Trestles with a semi-final interference. He’ll likely be a little more level-headed in 2012. Tracks fact: Julian is good mates with former Australian cricket opener, Matt ‘The Bat’ Hayden.
ASP/KIRSTIN
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
TOP 34 MEN
8
JORDY SMITH
REPRESENTS: STH AFRICA AGE: 24 Form Guide: Plagued by injury in 2011, the South African will return in 2012 and cast a predatory gaze upon the world title. Another surfer with the capacity to combine sublime power riffs with aerial trickery, Jordy’s success will hinge on his ability to find his flow state and stay in that zone, as he has a tendency to run hot and cold. With back-to-back victories on home turf at J-Bay in the last two years, Jordy has kept the “lekker brus” [nice bro] flowing thick and fast from his supportive countrymen. However, one contest win a year does not a world champion make and both he and his fans from the rainbow nation know it. Tracks fact: After spending time in California Jordy now resides back on South African sand at a private beach [Llandudo] community near Cape Town.
ASP/KIRSTIN
9
ALEJO MUNIZ
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 22 Form Guide: The slick, Brazilian-raised natural footer made semi-finals in both New York and San Francisco in 2011, thus proving that he has the ability to negotiate his way to the big rounds. His approach is smoother than many of his Brazilian peers and he has a tendency to snipe his way through rounds when the focus is on higher profile opposition. With more experience Alejo should improve his big-wave act but in the beach/point break conditions he favours he’ll be facing increasingly stiff competition from his South American brethren. Tracks fact: Alejo was actually born in Argentina.
ASP/KIRSTIN
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
10
MICHEL BOUREZ
REPRESENTS: TAHITI AGE: 26 Form Guide: One of the most impressive surfers of 2011, Michel is a competitor that has done nothing but improve since busting on the world stage in 2007. His money turn, the frontside wrap, has been aided and abetted by a Spartan’s heart approach to charging heavier barrels and a newfound zing in his backhand attack. A gentleman in and out of the water The Spartan, as he is rightly known, is the type of person you’d like your daughter to bring home. This Tahitian has a quiet confidence, and with the bonus of both his home nation of Tahiti and France on his side, the French (and English) speaking surfer can shake up the ratings and make a play for a top five finish in 2012. Tracks fact: Michel had plans to be a PE teacher but his surfing success put those plans on ice.
ASP/CESTARI
11 JOSH KERR
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 27 Form Guide: Watch him fly, watch him spin, and witness him re-write the manoeuvre dictionary. Given his repertoire of gymnastic tricks and ability to perform them almost at will, Josh is one of the most exciting surfers to watch on the tour. His rail surfing has also improved dramatically since he returned to the Tour in 2011 and if he can find synergy between both aspects of his performance then he will certainly find his way in to finals this year. Like Taj, Josh needs to learn to peak at the right time. Tracks fact: Josh now lives in mainland USA.
12 DAMIEN HOBGOOD
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 32 Form Guide: Damo can sleep well at night knowing he surfs like a 911 Porsche on rails. His smooth and powerful surfing is the envy of tens of thousands of surfers the world over – and more importantly much appreciated by the ASP judges too. While no stranger to the air, it’s Damo’s water displacing offthe-top hangers that get him the big (7.5 plus) scores. Damo’s 12th place finish in 2011 was a terrific result for the veteran. Tracks fact: Damo’s second child, a boy, is named Colt.
13 JOHN JOHN FLORENCE
REPRESENTS: HAWAII AGE: 19 Form Guide: He knows Pipe like his backyard and punts airs with his eyes closed. The Hawaiian prodigy is no longer just that crazy little kid with a super ‘Mom’ but a Triple-Crown winner, fullyfledged WT member and proverbial nightmare for anyone who surfs against him in all kinds of conditions. Despite his youth, John John can fire at any of the waves on tour. If he can muscle up his power turns, watch out! Tracks fact: Last year John John hinted at dropping one of the Johns in his name.
14 MICK FANNING
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 30 Form Guide: With two world titles to his name, Mick goes into each year as a contender for the crown. He would be disappointed with his finish outside the top 10 in 2011 and will be hell-bent on ensuring that he is definitely in the running for the 2012 title. The Quiksilver Pro on the Gold Coast offers Mick one of his best opportunities to post a victory, or at least a keeper result and he knows that a solid performance there will be crucial to his 2012 aspirations. Tracks fact: Mick is an active supporter of several charities.
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
TOP 34 MEN
15 JEREMY FLORES
REPRESENTS: FRANCE AGE: 23 Form Guide: In rights, the hot-blooded Frenchman relies heavily on his forehand hack. However, with a victory at Pipe in 2010 and a matador’s performance at spine-threatening Teahupoo 2011, he has proved that he is equipped with the appropriate mental and physical faculties to win in waves of consequence. Another who forces competitors to beat him rather than granting soft advancement. Incorporating greater variation to his power-based attack will be critical to his success in 2012. Tracks fact: Jeremy Flores was on the invite list for the 2011/2012 Eddie Aikau event.
16 HEITOR ALVEZ
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 29 Form Guide: Combine the styles of Brazilian legends Flavio Padaratz and Fabio Gouveia and your half way to describing the surfing of Brazilian goofy footer Heitor Alves. The stand out manoeuvre in Heitor’s arsenal is hands down his backhand vertical re-entries – they are a sight to behold. Succinctly put; Heitor wins heats through grit, determination and flair, and like other right foot forward surfers on tour should benefit from the reintroduction of Fiji’s classic left hand break Cloudbreak to the tour schedule [lord knows they deserve it]. Tracks fact: Heitor’s hobbies include playing his guitar and riding skateboards.
17 MIGUEL PUPO
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 20 Form Guide: Part of the Brazilian push that includes Gabriel Medina, Alejo Muniz and Jadson Andre, this exciting young goofy-footer has everything in his repertoire that his peers do and a silky quality to his surfing that perhaps they don’t. Victories in major WQS events with stacked fields at the Nike Lowers Pro, Trestles and The O’Neill Cold Water Classic, Santa Cruz, ensured Miguel joined the ranks of the top tier tour in 2012. Guaranteed to secure some upsets. Tracks fact: After Miguel won a 14-karat solid gold railroad spike, worth $30,000 at the Nike Lowers Pro, he celebrated by going to Disneyland.
BEDE DURBIDGE BELTING THE COPING. ASP/KIRSTEN
19 KIEREN PERROW 20 BEDE DURBIDGE REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 35 Form Guide: In thick, pitching waves KP possesses both a physicist’s propensity for calculation and a kamikaze pilot’s disdain for self-preservation. It was this combination which saw him emerge as the deserved winner of the 2012 Pipeline Masters. Often underestimated by competitors in smaller conditions, Kieren is a shrewd tactician and an astute judge of waves. Perhaps the real challenge for KP is learning to love the little stuff as much as he thrives on the heavy conditions. Tracks fact: Last year Kieren took a giant jar of Vegemite to all overseas events. TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 29 Form Guide: Making good use of his 6’1”-long frame, Bede’s powerful forehand extensions help him score big on any right-hander. His backside coil-and-release bottom turns also afford him the time to go beyond vertical on his backhand. Excluding last year where starting a family (understandably) mellowed his momentum momentarily, he has not been ranked outside of sixth place since 2006. Don’t be surprised by the results the freshly focused Durbo achieves in this year’s ASP World Tour. Tracks fact: For a surfer who once struggled to garner sponsorship, Bede has certainly turned things around.
18 ADRIAN BUCHAN REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 29 Form Guide: Ace has finished inside the top 10 twice throughout his six-year top-flight career and has even nailed a (rare) final win over the great Kelly Slater in France in 2009. However, after each top 10 finish, he has inexplicably dropped around 10 places the following year. Despite a third at Jeffrey’s Bay in South Africa (the birthplace of his father), 2011 was not a great year. If history counts for anything this means the silky smooth goofy footer is set for a bumper 2012. Tracks fact: Ace delivered his Quiksilver Pro France-winning speech in the country’s native tongue.
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TOP 34 MEN
21 RAONI MONTEIRO
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 29 Form Guide: The Brazilian natural footer has a pit-bull approach to waves and throws more spray than his fellow countrymen. His 10-point ride at Teahupoo last year was one of the waves of the year and solidified his reputation as a Brazilian with big cojones. Something of a light switch when it comes to the tour [on again, off again] he will have to be consistently at his best to threaten in 2012. Expect a vocal Brazilian contingency to show their support for Raoni on the Gold Coast. Tracks fact: Raoni lists his dad as his favourite person to surf with.
22 BRETT SIMPSON
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 27 Form Guide: Powerfully built and raised on a competitive diet of American sports, Brett is the classic athlete. Capable of producing the aerial move of an event or throwing down in a toe-to-toe power match up, he is also a versatile operator. Brett has made cameos in quarters and semis in the last couple of years but despite his much-lauded wins in WQS events at home in Huntington, WT victory eludes him. Last year a couple of critical close calls went against him but his focus in 2012 will be on ensuring the judges have no doubt he was the best surfer in the heat. Tracks fact: Brett’s dad was a famous Gridiron player.
23 ADAM MELLING
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 26 Form Guide: A right-hand point specialist whose creamy blend of style and power makes him one of the more aesthetically appealing surfers on tour. In the past two years Melling’s best performances have come at J-Bay, a wave which shares much in common with his home-break Lennox Head. Melling’s commitment to perfect form makes his surfing easy on the eye and in good waves he should do well, but sometimes progressing through heats on the WT involves polishing a turd. Tracks fact: Adam once co-hosted a cooking show segment.
ADAM MELLING ASP/KIRSTIN
25 CJ HOBGOOD
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 32 Form Guide: The 2001 world champion was a victim of last year’s mid-season cut off but after a few months contemplating the possibilities he’s requalified for 2012 and will be stretching his rubber-man wave antics to the limit. CJ remains one of the craftiest competitors on tour and despite his veteran status can still bend his way to a podium finish. Tracks fact: CJ and his brother Damian run an elite surf camp for aspiring American pro juniors.
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
26 TIAGO PIRES
REPRESENTS: PORTUGAL AGE: 31 Form Guide: Proudly Portugal’s greatest ever surfer, Tiago, or Saca as he is known to his mates, is a competitive animal. Under the pressure of world tour surfing many surfers crumble – not Tiago. It’s in these concentrated spotlight moments he often surfs out of his skin to achieve results beyond his natural talent alone. His distinctive cat paw style served him well at Snapper last year where he finished third, and he’ll be hoping for a similar start to 2012. Tracks fact: In surfing circles Tiago is frequently referred to as ‘the Prince of Portugal’.
24 KOLOHE ANDINO
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 17 Form Guide: Next big thing, break-through-artist – both annoying terms used by some music journalists to describe talented new artists. Shamefully, both could be used (like we have now) to describe Kolohe and his surfing. The son of a former pro, Dino, Kolohe has been around the world’s best surfers his whole life and it’s rubbed off. Front side stalefish air reverse? You name a multi faceted aerial manoeuvre and we guarantee you the kid can pull it off. But can he mix it with the big boys? Watch this space. Tracks fact: Kolohe’s grandfather, Reinol Andino, played congo on The Doors album ‘Soft Parade’.
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TOP 34 MEN
27 JADSON ANDRE
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 21 Form Guide: In small, crossshore lefts Jadson transforms into a sugar-glider, launching his light frame skyward at will. Not surprisingly he is most threatening in random beach-break set ups, where he can use his excess frequent flyer points to make something out of nothing sections. Won a WT event in Brazil in 2010 and consequently has the psychological advantage of knowing what it takes to claim an event. Joined by six of his countrymen on tour this year, Jadson will be fighting to finish as the highest place Brazilian. Tracks fact: Gabriel Medina rates Jadson Andre as the best aerialist in the world.
31 TRAVIS LOGIE
REPRESENTS: STH AFRICA AGE: 32 Form Guide: The explosive South African has been pin-balling around the tour for several years now with mixed results. Travis always aims to hit the lip as hard as possible but catering to the section of the criteria, which asks for variation, will be critical if he is to do well in 2012. Earned major props for his gutsy performance in muscular Teahupoo slabs last year, he’ll be hoping both Chopes and Fiji feature plenty of swell in 2012. Tracks fact: Last year Travis got locked up in LA for breaking into his own room. He was in the bath when six cops showed up at the door. TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
28 MATT WILKINSON
29 PAT GUDAUSKAS
30 DUSTY PAYNE
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 23 Form Guide: What to say about a man whose wetsuits are covered in dollar bills one week, and female breasts the next? Results wise, his 2011 stats read like a crapshoot, but his fifth place finishes at Snapper and Teahupoo were two of the more memorable performances of the year. He’s ingratiated himself with fans the world over and when his focus on having a good time wanes and his desire to do well grows results will improve. But do we want to see the larrikin mellow? Let’s hope he finds a happy medium. Tracks fact: Wilko rarely travels with a board over six feet long.
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 26 Form Guide: Competitively, the most successful of the three Gudauskas brothers, Pat has been plying his pirouette trade on tour since 2010. Although he has struggled to really assert his presence on tour, Pat provided a moment of genuine drama back in 2010 when he successfully completed a rodeo-clown in a heat to avoid dropping off the tour. Smoothing out the transitions and finding sync between his power carves and aerial act will be key to his success in 2012. Tracks fact: Last year Pat broke his leg attempting a rodeo at the Rip Curl Pro, San Francisco.
32 TAYLOR KNOX
33 KAI OTTON
34 YADIN NICOL
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 40 Form Guide: This is the 18th time Taylor Knox has qualified for the ASP World Tour. An astounding achievement, not just for its longevity, but balls to the wall commitment in which he has approached every heat! You want to see power? You want to see a guy hit the lip as hard as humanly possible? Be sure to be on the beach when Mr Knox paddles out. Long credited as having the best forehand power hack, Taylor is a jewel in the ASP World Tour crown. Tracks fact: TK endured a Pipeline wipe-out last year that was a carbon copy of one his friend Todd Holland suffered 23 years previous. Both looked horrible.
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 32 Form Guide: Kai Otton keeps the dream alive, courtesy of an ASP wildcard. Entering his seventh year on the elite tour, an experienced campaigner who will be looking to capitalize on his ability to find the best waves in heats. The problem for Kai in 2011 was frequently finding a good back up score. Deceptively powerful for someone with a lean build, Otton will be revelling in the fact Fiji is back on tour. Plagued by injury in past years, Kai will be hoping to be fully fit for an entire season. Tracks Fact: Kai has been known to fly to India for his down time, when the tour wraps up.
REPRESENTS: HAWAII AGE: 23 Form Guide: Missing the big New York event due to an injury he suffered charging Teahupoo certainly de-railed Dusty’s campaign last year – but he won’t be looking for excuses. This classy natural-footed surfer has the chops to go big and despite failing to put together a complete year since joining the World Tour in 2010 knows he’s only young and his time will come. His hunger for a big result is evident in his conviction, and when this drive coincides with his flamboyant free surfing heads will roll. Tracks fact: Dusty is a diehard New England Patriots (NFL) fan and loves country music.
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 26 Form Guide: Coming from the little town of Cowaramup in West Oz has done little to hamper Yadin’s rise to fame. From a freakishly talented grommet to a now freshlyminted ASP World Tour qualifier – it’s been a steady rise upward. He was on his way to busting down the door of qualification last year until he broke his leg surfing in Japan – thus the injury wildcard (voted on by the top 34). Scared of no one and not afraid to throw caution to the wind he will rattle cages. Tracks fact: When Yad’s,who lives in America, was recovering from a broken leg last year, his two favourite things were Ben and Jerry’s ice-cream and the Golf channel.
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MENS SCHEDULE 2012
STILL DREAMING
THE MEN’S WORLD TOUR SCHEDULE. DON’T YOU WISH YOU COULD BE AT EVERY EVENT.
THE QUIKSILVER PRO
Gold Coast, Coolangatta, Qld, February 25-March 7 Surfing dreams become reality on the stretch of sand between Snapper Rocks and North Kirra. When the world’s best take to the points, the possibilities of speed, power and tube-time are re-defined. Meanwhile on land, Coolangatta becomes the ultimate 24/7 surf town for two weeks.
THE RIP CURL PRO
Bells Beach, Torquay, Victoria, April 3-14 After overdosing on barrels on the Goldy, the surfers head south to Bells for an event that fuels the soul. Bells is one of the most testing waves on the tour and always sorts out the rookies. Last year the action was non-stop in the bowl but Bells also has the potential to be one of the boldest mobile events.
THE BILLABONG PRO
THE HURLEY PRO
Trestles, California, USA, September 16-22 Some might suggest that the pebble-stone, A-frame at Lower Trestles is the best performance wave in the world. Certainly, as a wave it offers surfers the opportunity perform every manoeuvre in their ever-expanding repertoires. Given this year’s field, it may play host to the most innovative surfing we’ve ever seen in a contest.
THE QUIKSILVER PRO
South West Coast, France, September 28-October 8 The tour descends into a European haze of waves, beautiful women and fine wine. Between French lessons with willing female students, the surfers get barrelled and chew on baguettes. Perhaps no other event makes you more envious of the pro-surfing life.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, May 9-20 There has never been a more enthusiastic surfing nation. The Brazilians have an unrivalled sense of occasion and when the surf contest comes to town they throw a non-stop beach party. The fun part about watching live or on the net is that the surfers are frequently doing amazing things in the kinds of beach break waves we can all relate to.
THE RIP CURL PRO
THE VOLCOM PRO
THE O’NEILL, COLDWATER CLASSIC
Fiji, June 3-15 Professional surfing returns to a left-hand promised land. Featuring options at Cloudbreak and Restaurants, expect to see the surfers spend plenty of time obscured by translucent, blue curtains. The time in the tube is generally only matched by the notoriously big bar tabs the surfers tend to rack up in this event.
THE BILLABONG PRO
Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa, July 11-21 With its spectacular wildlife, hypnotic lines and raw ocean feel, JBay performs the full assault on the senses. Compelling to look at but deceivingly quick, the challenge for surfers is to maintain down-the-line speed while still performing moves. That, and getting past the local wild-card specialists.
THE BILLABONG PRO
Teahupoo, Tahiti, August 16-27 After several years laying dormant, the left-hand beast with the most beautiful of backdrops, roared to life last year. Teahupoo – if it doesn’t maim you it might just make your surfing career. In truth the wave has many moods, none of which are dull.
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Peniche, Portugal, October 10-21 Supertubes lived up to the cylindrical suggestiveness of its name last year as the world’s best went toe-to-toe in a straight out tube duel. With their event now a permanent fixture, the Portuguese are now emerging as one of the best crowds in surfing. Steamer Lane, Santa Cruz, USA, November 2-12 One of the U.S.A’s most vibrant surf towns, Santa Cruz will embrace the arrival of the world’s best surfers. Hopefully we will see Steamer Lane’s meaty, off-shore fanned lines hurling along the point, while a crowd of thousands cheers on from above. The ‘Lane is actually comprised of four different right sections – The Point, The Slot, Middle Peak and Indicators – which occasionally link up for one classic ride.
THE BILLABONG PIPELINE MASTERS
Banzai Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii, December 8-20 Ask any pro surfer which event they would most like to win and the Pipe Masters will likely be the most common response. It is perhaps the perfect example of surfing Yin and Yang – breathtakingly beautiful at one moment and then literally taking your breath away forever at the next. Also, possibly the best, free sporting fixture in the world. X
DUSTY PAYNE DEEP INSIDE A SUPERTUBES DREAM. aSP/CESTaRI
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MENS SCHEDULE 2012
ONE EACH A NEW RIGHT HANDER MAKES ITS DEBUT ON TOUR, WHILE ONE OF THE WORLD’S BEST LEFTS MAKES A WELCOME RETURN.
THE VOLCOM PRO, FIJI
JUNE 3-15 The location many of the world’s best surfers voted as their favourite on tour returns to the WT schedule. Featuring two waves – Cloudbreak and Restaurants – that make goofy-footers feel like breaking into song, the event has historically been a celebration of great waves and good times, with surfers relishing the resort atmosphere the contest offers. In the past the event has been held in big hollow, hackable Cloudbreak, impossibly perfect Restaurants and in 2005 even played host to Laird Hamilton, who showed up mid-event to tow massive Cloudbreak with Koby Abberton. Slater was the last surfer to win there in 2008 and although he surfs with his back to wall on both waves, he lists the lefts as two of his most favourite waves in the world. This promises to be one of the most compelling events to watch on tour all year.
THE O’NEILL COLD WATER CLASSIC, SANTA CRUZ
NOVEMBER 2-12 Santa Cruz has always been a hub for mainland American surfing and was named the US’s number one surfing town by Surfer magazine. In the late 1950s Jack O’Neill used the Santa Cruz surfers as test drivers for his early wetsuits. Courtesy of his rubber inventions Jack helped spawn one of the world’s first, dedicated cold-water surf communities, not to mention a global surf label. This year’s event will coincide with O’Neill’s celebration of its 60-year anniversary as a surf brand. The main contest break at Steamer Lane offers the chance for competitors to ride big, offshore-groomed Atlantic Ocean peaks, while thousands of spectators ogle from a cliff-top grandstand. It’s a spectacular setting for a WT contest and given its scheduling as the second last event, it could possibly provide a few surprises at a time when the world title is up for grabs.
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TOP 17 WOMEN
TOP 17 WOMEN
MEET THE WORLD’S TOP WOMEN FOR 2012
1
CARISSA MOORE
REPRESENTS: USA AGE: 19 Form Guide: 2011 was the year that everyone had known was coming for Carissa: that she would be the World Champ. Articulate and focussed, she is now the youngest World Champ that women’s surfing has ever seen. As an athlete, her greatest strengths are in progressive surfing – ‘Riss started doing 360s at 10 years old. Look for her to start busting some big airs in heats this year to keep her competitors at arms length. Tracks fact: Carissa donated her 1st place prizemoney from the 2010 NZ WT event to the local community.
ASP/AQUASHOT
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2
SALLY FITZGIBBONS
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 21 Form Guide: Now that Sal has had a taste for going for a world title, she will be expecting to turn that experience into a shiny cup of her own. A successful athlete in multiple sports, Sally knows how to win. Taking out three events on the Women’s World Tour in 2011, you can spot Sally in the water before dawn on contest days, practicing. She wants that world title badly. Tracks fact: Sally won the 800m at the Youth Olympic Games in 2007.
ASP/KIRSTIN
3
STEPHANIE GILMORE
REPRESENTS: AUSTRALIA AGE: 24 Form Guide: 2012 is going to be a new experience for Steph – she is not the world champion, for what feels like the first time ever. After being attacked out the front of her home before the start of 2011, Steph lost her way until the final event of the season in France where she took the win. Can she take ‘her’ title back from Carissa this year? Tracks fact: Steph is the current Women’s Health Sportswoman of the Year.
ASP/ROWLAND
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4
TYLER WRIGHT
REPRESENTS: AUS AGE: 17 Form Guide: As the youngest World Tour event winner in ASP history and the younger sister of Owen Wright, Tyler has some serious pedigree when it comes to the pro tour. Brilliant in bigger waves, the 2011 Rookie of the Year will look to go one better than her runner-up finish at the Roxy Pro Gold Coast and run away with the world title for 2012. Tracks fact: Tyler is a health freak, and was a vegan until 14.
ASP/WRIGHT
5
SILVANA LIMA
REPRESENTS: BRAZIL AGE: 27 Form Guide: One of the most passionate and competitive surfers on tour, Silvana wants that world title badly. The fact that she scored a 10 on her first wave ever in a WT event says enough about her potential. One of the first women to do airs in contests, if she brings her bag of tricks to every event she will be bashing down the door of the top spot. Tracks fact: Silvana has her mother’s name tattooed on her arm.
ASP/ KIRSTIN
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6 COCO HO (HAW) AGE: 20 Coco is the unofficial Hawaiian princess of surfing. Growing up with her dad, uncle and brother being professional surfers it was inevitable she would be follow in the family business. A little pocket rocket and always dangerous in small waves, she will be looking to start the year with a big result on the Gold Coast. Tracks fact: Coco’s house is the unofficial Thanksgiving venue for the ASP Top 17
8 COURTNEY 7 SOFIA MULANOVICH (PER) CONLOGUE (USA) AGE: 28 The first South American to win a world title, Sofia is a hero in Peru, bringing hope to millions of women who live in poverty as a true ambassador for surfing worldwide. An experienced competitor, Sof made the final in Sydney in 2011 and will look for a few more trophies in 2012. Tracks fact: Sofia always has a group of Peruvians on the beach cheering during her heats.
AGE: 19 A true Southern Californian girl, Courtney believes in hard work and trains even harder – rumour has it she will run until she throws up, trains in MMA and surfs upwards of six hours a day. All that training shows though, with Courtney dominating the Star Series in 2010 with three event wins. Look for her to win on surfing’s biggest stage – the World Tour – in 2012.
9 PAULINE ADO (FRA) AGE: 20 The most successful European woman ever, “Popo” won the ASP World Junior Title and never looked back. With a 3rd place in France in 2011, Pauline is very strong competitively and has a strong fan base as well, with her own web series “Follow Pauline” in 2010. Tracks fact: Pauline is coached by Patrick Flores, father of World Tour surfer Jeremy Flores.
Tracks fact: Courtney’s motto is ‘Dream, Believe, Become”
10 LAURA ENEVER (AUS)
11 MALIA MANUEL (HAW)
12 LAKEY PETERSON (USA)
13 SAGE ERICKSON (USA)
AGE: 20 Laura is one of the next generation of strong competitors from North Narrabeen – with one important difference: you are just as likely to see her at New York fashion week as in the lineup. After qualifying at the last-minute in 2011, she will want a big result at home in Sydney in April.
Malia won two events back to back on the Star Series and will be looking to bring that form onto the World Tour. Extremely competitive, the girl from Kauai will be giving her all to take down the top five.
Part of the new generation of progressive female surfers, Lakey is most often seen above the lip. Born into a competitive bloodline, her mother was an Olympic swimmer and Lakey gets her love of the water from her. 2011 US Open runner up last year as a wildcard, one to watch in 2012.
After coming so close to qualifying two years previously, Sage worked hard to cement her spot for 2012 with a strong year on the Star Series. Dedicated and focussed, expect her to make an impact in 2012.
Tracks fact: Laura was photographed by Annie Lebowitz for a Nike campaign.
Tracks fact: ‘Kaunu’ – the Hawaiian word for ‘Passion’ – is written on all of Malia’s surfboards
Tracks fact: Lakey raised $15k for H4o (Hands 4 Others) to build fresh-water wells in third world countries by showing Nike’s all girl surf film Leave a Message.
Tracks fact: Sage is best friends and surfing buddies with Lakey.
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TOP 17 WOMEN
14 REBECCA WOODS (AUS)
15 PAIGE HAREB (NZL)
16 JUSTINE DUPONT 17 ASP WILDCARD JACQUI SILVA (BRA) (FRA)
Now one of the veterans on tour, Rebecca is one of the most technically perfect surfers on tour, having trained with super coach Martin Dunn for most of her life. Will be looking to make a final in 2012.
The lone New Zealander on tour, Paige requalified of the Star Series and will be looking to recapture her form on the World Tour. As the only goofy footer on tour, watch for Paige to make an impact as soon as the tour goes to a left.
As the second European on tour, expect Justine to want to knock Pauline off her top spot. A threat in all conditions, she tied for the last spot on tour and will want to keep it at all costs.
Tracks fact: Rebecca has her own event for up and coming groms on the Central Coast of NSW – the ‘Ra Girls’ Surf Show.
PAIGE HAREB WHIPPING THROUGH A BACKSIDE SNAP. ASP/ CESTARI
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Tracks fact: Paige is an ambassador for Canteen at home in NZ.
Tracks fact: Justine has a twin – who doesn’t surf
After requalifying in 2011, Jacqui missed all the events but one after a car accident. While driving to the first day of competition at Bells, a man in a Range Rover had a heart attack – a head on smash with Jacqui was the result. The ASP gave her the wildcard for 2012 to give her a second shot at the year she missed. Tracks fact: Jacqui is the oldest girl on tour at 32.
WOMENS SCHEDULE 2012
A STRING OF PEARLS THE 2012, ASP WOMEN’S TOUR SCHEDULE
ROXY PRO
Gold Coast, Coolangatta, Queensland, February 25-March 7 Being the first stop, expect to see everyone firing out of the blocks here to try and start their year off on a high. With D’bah as a backup plan, waves are a sure thing here as well. Let’s hope for a bit of behind the rock barrel action for the girls.
RIP CURL WOMEN’S PRO PRESENTED BY FORD FIESTA
Bells Beach, Torquay, Victoria, April 3-9 The Bells contest is one of the most prestigious events in surfing, so competition for a coveted bell is high. Spread between the breaks of Winkipop, the Bells Bowl and Rincon means all different conditions. Most versatile wins.
TSB BANK NEW ZEALAND SURF FESTIVAL
Taranaki, New Zealand, April 11-15 Currently unconfirmed, it’s in the true spirit of the Anzacs that we love the NZ event. Being a showcase for Taranaki’s own Paige Hareb, last year we saw Sarah Mason debut herself in the fun beachies of New Plymouth. A mobile event to look for the best breaks under Mt Taranaki’s watchful eye, you may also see the girls ripping out at Back Beach, or the local secret spots outside of the contest rashie.
COMMONWEALTH BANK BEACHLEY CLASSIC
Dee Why, Sydney, April 18 - 23 Commonly referred to as ‘Layne’s event’, as it is set around her old stomping grounds of Dee Why Point. Another right point break for the girls, the biggest prize purse of any event on tour adds another dimension to this event. The end of the Australian leg means that anyone without good results thus far needs to move quickly to stay on tour.
BILLABONG RIO PRO
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, May 9 - 13 One of the biggest surf scenes in the world, Rio has an amazing energy that’s transferred to the Billabong Pro. With beach break conditions, it’s the fast, precise surfing that gets the big scores here. Watch Silvana Lima surfing to get an idea of the support for the hometown heroes – ‘and the crowd goes wild!’
ROXY PRO
Grand Plage, Biarritz, France, July 10 - 14, 2012 The Roxy Pro France is always loved by the girls because it’s an excuse to eat cheese. Held in the beach breaks around Biarritz, the event has a truly European feel while keeping its athletic edge. From Grand Plage to Cote de Basque, to sidewalk cafes sipping coffee, watch for the bright wetsuits of the top 17.
NIKE US OPEN OF SURFING
Huntington Beach,California, United States of America, July 30 - Aug 5 ‘The biggest show in surf’ … the US Open is massive. Set in the punchy beachies of Huntington Beach, California, the event covers motorcross, fashion shows, live music and of course, the best female surfers in the world. Always the qualifying nailbiter for those towards the back of the ratings.
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QUIKSILVER PRO SNAPPER ROCKS
THE FIRST EVENT ON THE ASP TOUR SCHEDULE NEVER DISAPPOINTS. TEN TIPS TO HELP YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF THE QUIKSILVER PRO PRESENTED BY LAND ROVER.
at the notorious Southport Seaway, you can score some of the best beach-break barrels of your life at Sth Straddie. Get the taxi if you are truly selachophobic [fear of sharks] or better still ONE THE VIEW FROM THE HILL: While there is nothing wrong find a friend with a ski. with watching the action from the beach while flanked by exotic sun-tanned girls, sometimes it pays to get a different per- SEVEN RAINBOW BAY CAFE: The takeaway store/cafe in spective of the Quiksilver Pro. Try climbing the hill behind the Rainbow has been serving toasted sangas and thick shakes point at Snapper. The elevation delivers a compelling insight to Gold Coast surfing royalty for years. Soak up the kind of authentic, Aussie milk-bar atmosphere that rarely exists anyin to the incredible surfing, taking place. more, complete with framed photos and news clippings of the TWO A LAP: Artificially enhanced or not, the stretch from likes of Fanning and Parko in their early years. Still a favourite Snapper to Kirra is undeniably one of the seven wonders amongst the top surfers. of the surfing world. Chances are the sweep and the gladiatorial vibe at Snapper will make it near-impossible to EIGHT THE D-BAH FREESURF SHOW: D-bah’s thick, wedging hold your spot. Don’t stress, and enjoy the drift. Some peaks create the ultimate aquatic skate park for the world’s of the best waves can be picked up in those little lineup best, during the Quiksilver pro waiting period. In addition to gaps that appear as you float like down the line like a being one of the main mobile options for the event, it also discarded paddle-pop stick. Once you get to Kirra, get out, plays host to some of the best freesurfing you will ever see. It walk around, and do it all again. We suggest an evening of always pays to walk over the hill from Snapper and check out which top 34 surfers are warming-up for their heats. carbo-loading the night before, for the best results. NINE THE TRACKS COOLANGATTA GOLD: This is similar to a lap of the Superbank with a few bits thrown in that were inspired by the infamous Gold Coast iron man race that was also the basis for a very kitsch ‘80s Aussie movie. To complete a Tracks Coolangatta Gold you must do all of the following in a single session. 1. Jump off the Groyne at D-bah, ride a wave and catch and kiss a frill-necked lizard as you walk up the stairs. 2. Have a beer at the Rainbow Hotel en route to the jump-off at Snapper. Over the beer you must tell one highly embarrassing surf story about yourself to someone [or FOUR CHECK OUT THE SONS OF BEACHES FESTIVAL get nude at the bar]. 3. Ride a wave from behind the rock COOLANGATTA GOLD: CHECK OUT THE SONS OF BEACHES at Snapper, hit the beach and get at least one girl’s phone number, even if it means lying and saying you are a pro surfer FESTIVAL: ‘Sons of Beaches 72’ is an art & film installation that from Uzbekistan. 4. Surf all the way to Kirra and eat a large charts the development of the seminal pro surfing move- seafood pizza at the Kirra Pizza Hut. 5. Run all the way back to ment that rose from the Gold Coast in the early 1970s Snapper and surf back to Kirra without throwing up. highlighting the short board revolution in Australia. The exhibition will offer the visitors an interactive experience TEN LIVE VIEWING OPTIONS: Fuel TV has committed to feathrough art, photography, film, fun & interactive installa- turing every event on the men’s, ASP world tour this year. Its tions, on the couch sessions with guest speakers all guar- coverage will kick off at the Quiksilver Pro, Gold Coast. If you anteed to touch a nostalgic nerve as they trawl through can’t be there then watching all the action on a wide-screen is their memories bringing the past into full colour. Where: the next best thing. In addition to watching the webcast on a Gold Coast City Gallery 2 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Para- computer screen, you will also be able to download a Quiksilver iphone App, so you can watch the event on your phone. X dise. When: 4 February - 18 March 2012 THREE THE GREENMOUNT SCENE: The modern pro is something of a metro-sexual/pseudo sophisticate. He or she likes hanging at cafes, sipping lattes and debating the finer points of how good the Superbank [not the Left Bank] is looking. To witness the rare, amphibious beings in a terra firma setting you could be well advised to hover around the cafes down at Greenmount. But beware; if they are burying their losses with a triple shot macchiato they may be a little feisty.
FIVE RUN 2 PARADISE: You have to experience the Gold Coast’s version of Gotham for yourself; preferably on a Friday or Saturday night when it’s in full cry. Unsuspecting foreigners rubberneck their way through a forest of glittering towers, weekday workers indulge in decadence til’ dawn, strippers wander the streets between penthouse gigs and surfers wonder what happened to the ‘paradise’ bit. It’s chaos with a commercial twist but it’s certainly interesting for a little while at least. SIX MAKE A STRADDIE ASSAULT: If all limbs are still in place once you’ve paddled through the set of a shark documentary
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WHEN: FEB 25 - MAR 7, 2012 WHERE: GOLD COAST, QLD, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $425,000
front row seats at the quiksilver pro don’t cost anything but you will have to get there early if you want to get this close to kelly slater. Asp/kirstin
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ROXY PRO SNAPPER ROCKS
DRIPPING IN GOLD THE GIRLS SHINE AT THE ROXY PRO, GOLDCOAST. BY JESSI MILEY-DYER
THE ROXY PRO BY NUMBERS 17: The number of girls in the event that you can expect to drop in on you Snapper in February/March is one of the most crowded breaks on the planet, with pros, aspiring pros and the entourages of pros all converging around the rock. Waves are hard to come by, and you will get dropped in on. We will smile and apologise, but we’re not sorry at all. 7: The number of nights a week you can expect to be out and about during the Roxy Pro One of the best things about the Roxy event is that there are so many things going on around it – the ASP Surfing Awards and annual Roxy Cocktail night, to pick just two. There is always something going on, and you can always expect to be entertained by the Quiksilver and Roxy team. The good old bikini tan line in a strapless dress is always a hit for this time of year … but how could I resist when the waves were so good? 4356: The number of people who get smashed jumping off the rock I love watching people jump off the rock while watching one of the pros get a wave. Last year, Sally Fitz got a bomb set and was smashing it down the line when a guy who was in a rush to jump off, but also wanted to watch the rest of the wave, tripped and fell on his face. It makes me feel better about never jumping off the rock, because I’m too much of a girl. Don’t want to chip my nails, you know.
SILVANA LIMA ATTACKING A GOLD COAST LIP WITH PEPPERMINT SPRAY. ASP/CESTARI
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RIP CURL PRO BELLS BEACH
WHY BELLS STILL HAS US UNDER ITS SPELL TOP TEN WAYS TO ENJOY THE RIPCURL PRO PRESENTED BY FORD RANGER.
the perfect platform to reminisce and convince their groms they too were once cool.
ONE ROAD TRIP: It’s an Easter tradition every Australian surfer should partake in, at least once in their lives – jump in a car, van, Winnebago or Kombi with a bunch of friends and take the coast road to Bells from whichever direction you are traveling. You will score waves en route to the event and arrive amped to witness the world’s best throw all the magic ingredients into the Bells cauldron.
SEVEN THE RUN TO JOHANNA BEACH: Traveling south, winding forest-flanked roads, quaint towns and rolling green hills finally make way for the awe-inspiring expanse of Johanna beach. A wave-wonder, when the rest of the coast is flat, Johanna is four foot and firing. If the contest goes mobile to Joey – go with it. If it doesn’t then take advantage of a contest lay-day, drive south and treat yourself to a unique Australian surfing experience.
TWO TUNE IN TO TRACKSMAG.COM: Secret sessions with the world champ, on-site interviews with the Top 34 and past legends; plus whatever crazy, random content we can get away with. Tracks “Fingers in the Bowl” online coverage of the Rip Curl Pro is always entertaining and guaranteed to give you a perspective on the event you won’t find anywhere else.
EIGHT THE TORQUAY HOTEL: Downing a few pots at the town’s main pub is an important part of the pilgrimage. The history of Bells surfing is pretty much weaved into the carpet. A good tealeaf reader could probably tell the entire history of Australian surfing by interpreting the beer stains. The bistro offers a first-class feed and is also a great place for pro-spotting, THREE THE WINKI POP STAIRS: Tom Carroll used to run up as many of the world’s best dine there during the event. It’s them for training, the judges have an alternate tower set up also notorious for being the bar where losing surfers come to half way down the near-vertical wooden foot-climb and nearly drown their sorrows and bend the ear of willing listeners. every top surfer in the world will likely descend them at some point during the event. Whether it’s a viewing platform for clas- NINE THE BELLS COMMENTARY: Zone in on the action but sic free-surfing sessions or the makeshift stadium when the tune in to the commentary. The bells commentary, both online contest shifts to the Pop, the Winki stairs are never short of and live, has a reputation for being colourful, creative and often a little left of field. It’s certainly never dull. action. FOUR BETWEEN BELLS AND TORQUAY: We’re not going to give you exact details but we will say that between Bells and main beach Torquay, there are waves to be ridden. If you do sneak away for a session mid-contest, be polite to the locals, who, while friendly enough, will show little tolerance for hassling snakes.
TEN 13TH BEACH: A short drive from Bells, the beacon is arguably one of the best beach breaks in Australia. In 2010 much of the contest was held in the beach’s muscular A-frame peaks, which provided the ultimate high performance platform for the world’s best. Definitely worth a look for a late or a lay day. Just check your inside – chances are one of the top 34 will be taking off way deep. X
FIVE SURF CITY PLAZA: Situated on Beach road, Torquay, Surf City Plaza is like the Solomon’s temple of surfwear. Bargains If you can’t be there, check out all the action live at the of every kind spill out the door as several brands jostle for following locations: Fuel TV, ripcurl.com, livestream.com or your attention at a location that harks back to the origins of download the Rip Curl live events phone app. the Australian surf industry. SIX THE SURF WORLD MUSEUM: Also located in the Surf City Village, the Surfworld Museum is credited with being the largest surf and beach culture museum in the world. A total nostalgia-trip that is a must-see for anyone visiting Torquay. Kids get a great sense of surfing history and Mums and dads have
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WHEN: APR 3 - 14, 2012 WHERE: BELLS BEACH, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $425,000
MICK FANNING BLOWING THE BACK OUT OF A BELLS BOWL. NATE SMITH
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RIP CURL PRO BELLS BEACH
RIPPED DENIM THE GIRLS TEAR UP THE BIG, BLUE LINES AT THE RIP CURL PRO, BELLS PRESENTED BY FORD FIESTA. BY JESSI MILEY-DYER
THE PERSON WHO YOU WON’T HEAR PLAYED AT BELLS: JUSTIN BIEBER As is tradition, once the contest is called on for the day AC/DC’s ‘Hells Bells’ starts blaring through the speaker system. Just once, I would like to hijack the iPod and play either J Biebs or Cody Simpson. I feel like the usual morning crowd on the Bells Bowl of Mick, Joel, Ace, Carissa and Sal would appreciate a bit of a shake-up. Well, maybe not the boys so much. Ouchies: A little known fact about the break is that Bells has the most painful car park in the world. Walking up the slope after an early morning surf in the chilly Victorian air, there have been times when I was sure that it was made from broken glass. If you arrive down the contest site just before the first hooter goes for the day, you can see a line of surfers doing the Bells carpark dance of pain as they make their way back to their cars, and ugg boots. I would assert that ugg boots are the state of Victoria’s official footwear, but every Victorian that I see seems to insist on wearing thongs – even when it’s freezing. Coffee: The best way to warm up after a cold surf is, without a doubt, coffee. During the long lay days of the Rip Curl Pro, you can expect to see most of the Top 17 at a sidewalk café at least once. If nothing else, it’s a great way to catch up on the gossip and hang out with friends – because you never know what went on in the lineup for the early surf before you got you there. X TYLER WRIGHT, TAKING A TRIPLE BLADE TO A WALL OF LIQUID DENIM, AT BELLS. ASP/ROBERTSON
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WQS TOUR
THE WARRIOR’S TOUR ON THE AUSTRALIAN LEG OF THE WQS TOUR THE WORLD’S BEST WILL DUEL WITH THOSE DESPERATE TO MAKE IT TO SURFING’S TOP TIER.
TELSTRA DRUG AWARE PRO, MARGARET RIVER ONE WAY OR ANOTHER IT’S THE PRIME EVENT THAT’S ALWAYS BIG.
Margarets is one of the most prestigious contests on the Australian leg of the tour and this year’s event promises to be bigger than ever. Owen Wright and Mick Fanning have already confirmed they will be taking part in the Prime event but the biggest cheers will be reserved for locals Taj Burrow and Yadin Nicol. Margarets can throw anything at the surfers – from playful, punt-friendly A-frames to giant, steamrolling chunks of Indian Ocean. Last year the action was riveting as the surfers took on huge, Victory At Sea conditions in the earlier rounds. Ultimately, Damian Hobgood was the last man left standing in the survival-of-the-fittest contest. Local hero Yadin Nicol finished runner-up and will be desperate to go one better in 2012. TOP 5 WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE TELSTRA DRUG AWARE PRO, MARGARET RIVER ONE THE MUSIC: Margarets is always much more than just a surf contest. The Saturday night of final’s weekend [24th March] will feature some of Australia’s best bands, performing on a purpose-built stage and concert venue. TWO THE ART: Tapping into the creative energy of the festival, Mambo will be co-ordinating an interactive art execution during the contest. The works of local artists will be on display throughout the week and also displayed on a dedicated web-page. THREE GO WEST: For east coast surfers, the festival provides the perfect catalyst for a trip west. There are waves and wineries to explore and the areas around Margarets offer some of Australia’s most unique coastal experiences. http://www.margaretriver.com. FOUR GET FUELLED UP: The webcast is always compelling but it’s hard to beat watching the action on the big screen. Fuel have committed to featuring 12 hours of coverage of the event. By the end your eyes will be as square as a barrel at The Box. FIVE DON’T FORGET THE DAMES: A women’s six star WQS event is part of the festival and Margarets provides a rare opportunity to see the girls charge in big waves. Some of the event’s gutsiest performances in the past have come from women surfers who are willing to ride giants.
WHEN: MAR 19 - 25, 2012 WHERE: MARGARET RIVER WA, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $250,000 TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
SURFER’S POINT MARGARET RIVER REELING BOTH WAYS. JAMIE SCOTT
THE BURTON TOYOTA PRO – SURFEST, NEWCASTLE HUNTING THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS TROPHY ON THE WQS TOUR.
With four world titles Mark Richards is indisputably the most successful Australian contest surfer in history. On a global scale, only Kelly Slater has won more men’s world titles than MR. Kelly is yet to have a major contest held in his honour but MR hosts one every year at Newcastle. Given MR’s status, it’s arguably the most prestigious trophy on the WQS tour. This year the event has been rightfully upgraded to a sixstar rating and will attract world tour surfers and the highly ranked WQS surfers who are chasing the WT dream. Recently crowned Pipe Master, Kieren Perrow has confirmed he will be pulling on a singlet and Joel Parkinson is also likely to take part. Meanwhile, Luke Egan has accepted the wildcard for the event and will be determined to become the first Newcastle surfer to actually win the event. Fans of women’s surfing won’t be disappointed, as the girls will also be contesting the Hunter Ports, six star Women’s Pro. Few surf cities will make you feel more welcome, so head to the land of the Novocastrian and get amongst it. FIVE WAYS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF SURFEST ONE BE THERE: Newcastle is one of the most hospitable cities in Australia. Furthemore the Novocastrians are extremely passionate about the sporting events they host. This is the biggest investment of resources this event has seen in years and it will be impossible not to get swept up in the festival atmosphere. TWO CHECK THE NEWCASTLE HERALD: Most mainstream press runs surfing as a single paragraph next to the obituary columns but in Newcastle the wave warriors make front-page news the MR Pro is on. The coverage is colourful and insightful and it’s great to see the world’s best surfers receiving the sort of recognition they deserve. THREE MISS SURFEST: The quality Hunter Valley wines, stiff salt air and coal-rich soils of Newcastle create a strange but wonderful alchemy in the local women. All the most stunning girls from the Newcastle region descend upon Fanny’s nightclub for the annual Miss Surfest event and it’s one of the biggest nights on the local calendar. FOUR THE VIEW FROM THE BALCONY: The Rainbow Bay Hotel at Coolangatta now has a legitimate rival when it comes to best bars in the country to watch a surf event from. The recently developed Merewether Surf House boasts three floors of fun, each with a view of the lineup where the contest will be held. FIVE THE TRACKS TRIVIA NIGHT: Tony Barber meets Tracks at the ultimate occasion for those who love to test their knowledge of surfing and surf culture. The venue is yet to be confirmed but we will let you know where it’s happening via tracksmag.com in the lead up to the event.
WHEN: MAR 12 - 18, 2012 WHERE: MEREWETHER NSW, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $155,000 A LITTLE BIT OF MEREWETHER MAGIC. bOSkO
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE
THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING - HURLEY/BILLABONG PRO SuRfInG RETuRnS TO ITS SyDnEy HOME
Local fans will welcome the return of professional surfing to the northern Beaches of Sydney after a long hiatus. Manly has played an integral role in Australia’s surfing history. Our own Midget farrelly won the inaugural world championship there in 1964 before a crowd of 60,000. In the same event Phyllis O’Donnell won the women’s title. Since then Manly has played host to some of surfing’s most memorable battles. In the 1978 2SM Surfabout Larry Blair and Wayne Lynch engaged in a full-blown tube duel, with Blair just nudging out Lynch in the finals. While in 1987 the world title race between Damian Hardman and Gary “kong” Elkerton came down to the finals at Manly, with Dooma Hardman getting the money over a visibly dejected kong. As the corresponding photo indicates, Manly can really turn on and organisers will be hoping for a big north swell to come swinging around the point at Queenscliff. The contest site is set to be expansive and a massive festival incorporating bands, skateboard demonstrations and a range of other activities, will take place in conjunction with the event. If you’re not down at Manly between feb’ 13 and 19 you will be missing out.
WHEN: FEB 13 - 19, 2012 WHERE: MANLY NSW, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $155,000 A LuCky SuRfER DuCkS In TO A COSy LOOkInG uRBAn BuRROW, In MAnLy. craig brokensha
THE BREAKA PRO BURLEIGH
WHERE THE WORLD’S BEST COME TO GET BARRELLED It’s the event hosted at the spiritual home of modern, professional surfing. In 1977 Peter Drouyn’s man-on-man format was first introduced at Burleigh in front of a massive Gold Coast crowd. With its sloping, Pandanus-tree-lined headland and front-row seats on boulders, Burleigh remains one of the world’s best natural amphitheatres for surfing. While the break itself has lived in the shadow of its sandpumped cousin the Superbank over the past few years, Burleigh is still a world-class wave on its day. Expect several WT surfers to take part, if only for the chance to surf pumping Burleigh with one other guy out.
WHEN: FEB 8-12 WHERE: BURLEIGH HEAD QLD, AUSTRALIA TOTAL PRIZE MONEY: $95, 000
THEy SAy BuRLEIGH BARRELS AnD kIRRA TuBES. THE LATE, GREAT AnDy IROnS PROvInG A POInT BACk In EARLy 2010. swilly
TRACKS ASP TOUR GUIDE