While the event has been on hold for a full seven days, Team O'Neill have not exactly been sitting around doing nothing - that's for sure. Jordy, Timmy, Bobby and Roy have been making the most of the swell on offer in the Tahitian paradise
Check out all the photos and videos
Look for more of this soon. Collin will be back riding in a few months.
Surf de nuit à Anglet
O'NEILL SURF DE NUIT – 14 AOUT 2010, ANGLET –
Le 14 Août dès midi sur les plages de la chambre à Anglet.
Pour
cette édition 2010, samedi 14 aout sur les plages de la chambre
d'amour à Anglet, le O'Neill Surf de Nuit présenté par Orangina, va
encore s'imposer comme l'un des évènements glisse incontournables de
l'été.
Pas besoin d'attendre le coucher du soleil pour profiter du
spectacle, dès midi les moniteurs de l'Anglet Surf Club et les riders
du team O'Neill vous attendront sur la plage des sables d'or et celle
du club à Anglet. Au programme dès midi: initiations gratuites au
surf, tests de matériel surf et Stand Up paddle, qualifications pour
le contest, projections de vidéos en plein air, concerts gratuits dès
19h.
Dès 23h, phases finales du contest avec les pros du team O'Neill.
Une
journée exceptionnelle, un show nocturne ébouriffant, un cocktail de
glisse et de spectacle inoubliable au reflet du style de vie O'Neill «
First In last Out » !
UN RENDEZ-VOUS ESTIVAL INCONTOURNABLE
Initié par l'Office de
Tourisme d'Anglet il y a 16 ans, le O'NEILL SURF DE NUIT est devenu au
fil des ans LE rendez-vous incontournable de l'été pour tous les
amateurs de spectacles, qu'ils soient locaux ou touristes, férus de
glisse ou simples curieux désireux de découvrir le surf sous un jour
nouveau. Organisé traditionnellement le 14 août au soir, au plus fort
de la fréquentation estivale, le Surf de Nuit est devenu l'un des
événements les plus populaires de l'été en Côte basque et attire
chaque année plusieurs milliers de personnes (10 000 estimés en 2009)
qui prennent littéralement d'assaut le moindre centimètre carré de
la Chambre d'Amour.
UN CADRE UNIQUE
Avec son front de mer
jalonné de restaurants, cafés, bars et autres surf-shops et ses
vagues de renommée mondiale pour leur faire face, le mythique quartier
de la Chambre d'Amour d'Anglet, s'est naturellement imposé pour
accueillir cette manifestation. Ses beach-breaks puissants ont toujours
été plébiscités par les surfeurs du monde entier.
La
configuration des lieux, avec ses enrochements et son promenoir
exclusivement piétonnier en surplomb des vagues, en fait un
amphithéâtre naturel idéal pour ne rien manquer du spectacle.
LES SURFERS DU TEAM O'NEILL >
Matt Meola – (Hawaii) www.mattmeolasurf.com/Matt_Meola/Video.html
Originaire
de: Hawaii - North Shore Maui Age: 21 ans (06 juillet 1989) Vagues
favorites: Secret Spots Maui, Jaws, Windmills et Tavares Livre: "Surf
Is Where You Find It" de Gerry Lopez Surf Movie: Modern Collective
Autres centres d'intérêts: Guitare, peinture, pêche au gros
> Christophe Allary – (Reunion) http://www.vimeo.com/12268758
> Xavier Leroy – (France) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVpDQNxCvc8
>
Et d'autres invités spécialistes des airs : Tom et Nelson Cloarec,
Alizé Arnaud, Amandine Sanchez, Tim Boal, Abdel El Harim, Leigh
McMahon, Axi Muniain...
SURF & MUSIQUE
Et comme cet
événement ne saurait être une compétition de surf parmi tant
d'autres, le O'NEILL SURF DE NUIT, présenté par Orangina perpétue la
tradition de l'épreuve en mariant le surf à la musique et la
lumière... Dans une ambiance quasi féerique, le public pourra voir
des surfeurs évoluer dans une eau éclairée par d'imposants ballons
gonflés d'hélium disposés au dessus des vagues et de la foule. Dès
19h les spectateurs pourront également se laisser aller sur les
mélodies des groupes de musique sélectionnés par O'Neill.
Pour
accompagner les évolutions des surfeurs et faire vibrer la foule, les
groupes Wille and The bandits, The Tatianas et Capsula se produiront en
live sur la digue des Sables d'Or ; ils seront suivis d'un set de DJ
Maf, lors des finales dès 23h. Et pour ne rien manquer du show, les
spectateurs pourront se tourner vers l'écran géant spécialement
posté sur la digue afin de relayer l'action capturée par les
différentes caméras.
LES GROUPES ET DJ SELECTIONNES
Wille and the bandits (Londres) – 18h30
http://www.myspace.com/willesband
Capsula (Bilbao) – 22h
http://www.myspace.com/capsulaorg
.
The Tatianas (Paris) – 20h30
http://www.myspace.com/thetatianas
DJ Maf – 23h
- FORMAT :
Le
O'NEILL SURF DE NUIT présenté par Orangina est une compétition de
type "airshow" où seules les manœuvres les plus explosives et
aériennes sont récompensées.
> PROGRAMME DE L'EVENEMENT:
12h-17h
: - Initiations gratuites au surf sur la plage des Sables d'or
(jusqu'à 17h). > inscriptions sur marketing@oneillfrance.com et sur
place (dans la limite des places disponibles)
- Séries
qualificatives au Surf de Nuit (Avec l'Anglet Surf Club) sur la plage
du Club > inscriptions sur marketing@oneillfrance.com et sur place
(dans la limite des places disponibles)
17h-19h :
- Projections de films de surf sur l'écran géant
À partir de 19 heures – CONCERTS GRATUITS:
19h00 > 20h > Wille and the Bandits http://www.myspace.com/willesband
20h>20h30>DJMAF 20h30 > 21h30 > The Tatianas http://www.myspace.com/thetatianas 21h30> 22h > DJ MAF
22h > 23h > Capsula http://www.myspace.com/capsulaorg
À partir de 23 heures : PHASES FINALES DU CONTEST O'NEILL SURF DE NUIT DJMAF
AU SUJET D'O'NEILL
O'Neill,
la marque californienne de surf, de snowboard et de lifestyle
originale, fut fondée en 1952, lorsqu'un jeune homme du nom de Jack
O'Neill utilisait sa passion sans limites du surf pour battre Mère
Nature à son propre jeu. En créant la première combinaison de surf
en néoprène au monde, Jack découvrait une manière efficace de
prolonger ses sessions de surf dans les vagues glaciales de Californie
du Nord. Peu de temps après, il ouvrait les portes de son premier
magasin de surf à Santa Cruz.
Les choses ont bien changé depuis
ces modestes débuts ; néanmoins, la vision initiale de Jack
concernant la fabrication de produits de glisse fonctionnels et
innovants est toujours au cœur de chacune des actions de la société.
Les valeurs fondamentales d'O'Neill, l'innovation en matière de style
et la technologie, ont permis à la marque de se dévouer
inconditionnellement à l'évolution des sports extrêmes. Depuis la
toute première combinaison en néoprène et le leash pour surf
jusqu'aux premiers shorts de surf sans coutures au monde et à la gamme
révolutionnaire d'appareils électroniques portables, l'esprit
d'innovation d'O'Neill reste le moteur de la société.
Aujourd'hui,
les produits O'Neill sont distribués dans le monde entier. En accord
avec son riche héritage et avec l'attrait universel de la culture
'glisse', O'Neill, le Premier Nom dans l'Eau, s'attachera à rester
l'un des leaders mondiaux des marques de lifestyle jeunes, fort de son
demi siècle d'histoire.
QUELQUES INFOS SUPPLÉMENTAIRES
Pour plus d'informations sur la marque O'Neill, ses produits, ses évènements, son team, veuillez contacter:
Pierre Boisraud Tel: +33 5 59 42 42 15 / marketing@oneillfrance.com / www.oneilleurope.com
Asap communication Tel: +33 1 55 80 70 52 / virginie.fevrier@asap-com.fr et astrid.vidus@asap-com.fr
Pour plus d'informations sur l'évènement
ANGLET TOURISME
Guillaume CAZET Tél. 05 59 03 07 77 animation@anglet-tourisme.com www.anglet-tourisme.com
PARTENAIRES
ORANGINA
Leader
incontesté des boissons aux fruits gazeuses, la marque Orangina
affirme son côté sportif ! Déjà partenaire du XV de France, la
marque naturellement pulpeuse fait pétiller l'été et investit la
plage avec l'Orangina Beach Rugby et l'Orangina Wake Jam Tour.
Fun, authenticité et dépassement de soi, des valeurs que la marque et le sport cultivent. http://www.oranginaschweppes.fr/ Contact Presse Bureau de Presse Pascale Venot
Marjorie Rousseau 01 53 53 44 69 mrousseau@pascalevenot.com
Amsterdam, The Netherlands – August 11, 2010 — O'Neill, the original Californian surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, and Philips, a diversified Health and Well-being company, have come together to create a new line of headphones. The Philips | O'Neill headphones collection will feature four high performance styles – two headband style headphones, and two ear buds. Official details, product imagery, and microsite will launch on September 2, 2010. Before the official launch, the collection can be previewed from August 13-15, 2010, at the O'Neill booth at ASR tradeshow in San Diego, Calif. Or please visit the Philips booth at the IFA tradeshow in Berlin, Germany from Sept 3-8, 2010.
ABOUT O'NEILL
O'Neill, the original Californian surf, snow and lifestyle brand, was founded in 1952 when a young man named Jack O'Neill took his unstoppable passion for surfing and used it to beat Mother Nature at her own game. Pioneering the world's first neoprene wetsuit, Jack had successfully found a way to extend his surf sessions in the bone-chilling breaks of Northern California. He opened up the garage doors to his first surf shop in Santa Cruz soon after.
While many things have changed since those humble beginnings, Jack's initial vision of producing functional and innovative boardriding products continues to lie at the core of everything the company does. O'Neill's set of core values – innovation in style and technology – has seen the brand devote itself wholeheartedly to the evolution of action sports. From the first ever neoprene wetsuit and surf leash, to the world's first stitchless boardshorts and range of groundbreaking wearable electronics, O'Neill's spirit of innovation will always drive the company forwards.
Today, O'Neill can be found the world over. In touch with its rich heritage and the universal stoke of boardriding culture, O'Neill will always be committed to progressing that evolution and growing its reputation as one of the world's leading youth lifestyle brands.
ABOUT PHILIPS
Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands is a diversified Health and Well-being company, focused on improving people's lives through timely innovations. As a world leader in healthcare, lifestyle and lighting, Philips integrates technologies and design into people-centric solutions, based on fundamental customer insights and the brand promise of "sense and simplicity".
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips employs approximately 116,000 employees in more than 60 countries worldwide. With sales of EUR 23 billion in 2009, the company is a market leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as lifestyle products for personal well-being and pleasure with strong leadership positions in flat TV, male shaving and grooming, portable entertainment and oral healthcare.
Jordy Smith takes 2nd, while Sage Erickson pulls off the Junior Pro victory.
Visit Jack's Huntington Beach during the final weekend (August 7th & 8th) of the US Open for your chance to win a FREE pair of Monster Freaks
Wetsuit pioneer Jack O'Neill made a career of protecting surfers from the ocean's chilly waters.
By Kurtis Alexander
PLEASURE POINT -- Wetsuit pioneer Jack O'Neill made a career of
protecting surfers from the ocean's chilly waters. Now he's trying to protect
himself from its fury.
The 87-year-old Santa Cruz icon says his home on East Cliff Drive is
threatened by damaging down-coast currents as a result of a new
1,100-foot-seawall being built by the county. O'Neill claims his best defense
is a seawall of his own, and he's asking state regulators for permission to
build one.
"I was satisfied with my house the way it was," O'Neill said
Wednesday, looking out at the emerging seawall that runs up against his
property. "But the wall creates a little hurricane when the sand and sea
get washed down, and it eats out what's at the end."
O'Neill, who moved to the Santa Cruz area in the late '50s to open a
surf shop, has lived in the house he's now trying to protect for 40 years. The
two-story home, while modestly built, is one of few that sits directly on the
bluffs above Pleasure Point's famed surf breaks and is a longtime landmark on
the county shoreline.
"It's a fantastic spot," O'Neill said from his sofa, which
provides a 180-degree view of the bay that inspired the international wetsuit
company he built and has since passed on to his son, Pat, to run.
O'Neill's seawall plans call for expansion of the county's concrete
seawall around his property. The work, which he says will cost him at least $1
million, involves removing the rock and riprap that now offers him protection
from the waves and replacing them with a sturdier wall contoured around his home.
Like the county seawall, which is in its final stage of construction,
O'Neill's wall would be sculpted and colored to look like the bluffs.
The California Coastal Commission is scheduled to make a decision on
O'Neill's proposal next week.
"He's in a very vulnerable spot," said commission planner
Susan Craig, noting that seawalls often deflect wave energy to nearby areas
that are not armored with concrete. "This new seawall could provide him
better protection over time."
Commission planners are recommending their governing board approve the
project at its meeting Wednesday in San Luis Obispo, with the proposals O'Neill
has made for the public.
One is a path in front of the seawall for beachgoers to use during low
tide. Another is making sure the parcel next to his property, which he also
owns and is commonly called the "dirt farm," is not developed and
remains open to people walking along the bluff top.
Surfrider Foundation regional manager Sarah Damrom, whose organization
fought unsuccessfully to stop the county seawall, reluctantly said she would
not oppose O'Neill's plans.
"We don't support armoring the coast there. However fighting things
piecemeal doesn't seem like it's going to solve the problem," she said.
Surfrider and other environmental groups have challenged the rationale
for seawalls, noting they only deflect the erosion problem. But with the
numerous seawalls on the coast, critics have softened their protest,
particularly to smaller projects, and have instead sought to sway planners to
their line of thinking.
Some worry seawalls, like the ones at Pleasure Point, could dampen the
waves the surf community has come to rely on.
A surfer coming up from the beach Wednesday, though, didn't concern
himself with that potential.
"Hey, it's Jack O'Neill's house," he said. "Let him do
what he needs."
July 29, 2010. Cape Town, South Africa – Greg Emslie has won the O'Neill Cold
Water Classic South Africa ahead of Australian, Dion Atkinson, continuing the
sporting success of a nation well into 2010.
"Jordy (Smith) won the other two local events and now I've won the third," said
Greg, hailing from East London, South Africa. "I was thinking to myself I beat Jordy
in this event, now I can't let the guy down and lose the final. We've got to keep
all the trophies at home, so I'm stoked I managed to do that."
The crowds flocked to Long Beach on the Cape Peninsula to witness a South
African win on home soil for the first time as part of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic
South Africa, cheering Greg's every wave from the shore.
"The crowd all want you to win so if you lose you feel like you've let them down,"
said Greg who also knocked out the in-form surfer of this event Shaun Cansdell in
the quarter finals earlier in the day.
The local crowd might even have been hoping for an all-South African final, but it
was Australian Dion Atkinson who mixed things up and gave everyone on the
beach a scare as it came down to a final wave in the dying minutes for Greg
Emslie to take and secure the win.
"I felt the best I've felt all contest when I took that last wave," said Greg. "I knew I
just had to go for it and I did."
For Dion it was a different story: "I didn't even see that last wave," he said. "Next
thing I knew I turned to the beach and saw him on it and thought… oh no, what
just happened."
However it's not all bad news for Dion as he moves up to fourth position in the
O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series ratings in the chase for the $50,000 behind
Shaun Cansdell, Stuart Kennedy and in first, Royden Bryson.
The final day of this year's O'Neill Cold Water Classic South Africa was played out
in relatively mild conditions compared to what the Cape Peninsula has produced
this past week.
The winds had eased, the swell had dropped and the sun was still shining… but
the water temperature offered a bit of a surprise element for all the guys jumping
in for their heat.
"It definitely hits you when you first get in it," said Dion. "My hands and feet were
feeling it, and I was trying to avoid duck diving as much as I could. It feels as cold
as it is when we surf Canada for the Series. But it was really fun conditions today."
The O'Neill Cold Water Classic Canada is next, starting on October 9th in Tofino
July 28, 2010. Cape Town, South Africa – The Cold Water Classic Series has always offered the wild and rugged. Now comes the drama – with the current World Number One, Jordy Smith as well as the current CWC Series leader, Royden Bryson knocked out of the competition as the quarter finalists were decided in solid 6 to 8 foot surf.
"It would have been nice to win three events here in South Africa," said Jordy – talking about latest wins firstly in his hometown of Durban, then his first World Tour win at J-Bay. "But it's also just cool to be here in Cape Town and have a contest here. I've been having fun and seeing friends."
As the crowds flocked to the beach, Jordy Smith wowed all in his first heat of the day, before bowing out to Greg Emslie and now-local hero Matt Bromley in the Round of 32.
"Jordy is such an amazing surfer. Just to make that heat meant so much to me," said Kommetjie local Matt Bromely after his heat in the Round of 32, before unfortunately stalling in the Round of 16.
It was the third day of competition at the O'Neill Cold Water Classic South Africa here on the Cape Peninsula, and it was the third different location in a row, held today at Longbeach – but even that didn't remain the same.
"It's like a completely different break out there this afternoon then it was this morning – with the tide and the winds," said Shaun Joubert – one of 6 South African quarter finalists. He is joined by Chad Du Toit, Frankie Oberholzer, Greg Emslie, Antonio Bortoletto and Daniel Redman.
Standing out in the group are the two Australians – Dion Atkinson and Shaun Cansdell. "I get along with the South Africans. Between them and the Australians there's a really good vibe – and I travel with one pretty much full time," said Dion, who despite battling flu powered through to the quarters.
As for Shaun Canselll - while all the focus has been on Royden Bryson and Stuart Kennedy vying for the CWC Series lead, sitting quietly behind them has been Shaun, although there is nothing quiet about his surfing at this event.
"I really enjoy surfing lefthanders being a goofy footer and am pretty stoked to surf them in an event," said Shaun. "It's pretty wild conditions out there with that wind, and there's a really cold current come in today so it's freezing."
"I was in third before this event," he said of the CWC Series rankings. "But there's still three events including this one – so anything can happen. Anyone could take it, so I am just seeing how it all goes."
The next call will be tomorrow July 29th at 8am starting with the quarterfinals.
It was a day of surprises here at the O'Neill Cold
Water Classic South Africa, as some of the event favourites were knocked out of
the second round in massive surf at Outer Kom on the Cape Peninsula.
Among them was Cold Water Classic Tasmania winner,
Stuart Kennedy who prior to this event was sitting in first place on the CWC
Series rankings alongside Royden Bryson. Stuart finished third in his heat
behind Nicholas Godfrey (ZAF) and Indar Perez (EUK).
"Here in Cape Town, you are often not competing
against the three other surfers in your heat, you are competing against the
elements," said Royden Bryson who is yet to get in the water in this
competition to try and take the CWC Series lead. "There is a lot of hype about
the series leader," said Royden, "but I try to shove it to the back of my
mind."
Also knocked out in this round of 64 were last
year's semi-finalist,Jarrad Howse, and South African star Casey Grant. But not
all the surprises were negative. Among the most positive was the heat win of 14
year old local surfer Benji Brand, who with a 16.34 heat score, achieved the
highest of the day.
"I'm really stoked. I surf here a lot at Outer Kom.
It's a really fun wave," said Benji Brand. "There was quite a bit of kelp today
but I managed to get 2 good scores. I've been surfing 9 years. I've lived in
Hawaii as well as just on the point here, which I think helped."
The only part of today that didn't come as a
surprise at this 4 Star ASP event were the conditions.
Typical O'Neill Cold Water Classic conditions were
back with a vengeance here in Cape Town South Africa. Despite a delay this
morning because of wild winds and swell, everything came together to create a
spectacular day of surfing in a solid 8 foot at Outer Kom on the Cape
Peninsula.
Board selection was the topic of conversation on
the rocks between surfers as they watched the heats, readying for their own. "I
came down with a car packed full with everything from 6"8, 6"6, 6"4, 6"2, and
6"0 and a couple of short boards as well," said Royden Bryson assessing the wild
conditions.
While all on the shore were waiting to see the
South African current World Number One Jordy Smith in action, the suspense
continues as wild conditions forced the competition off at the end of heat 9 in
the round of 64.
Jordy will be in the seventh heat of the day
tomorrow – the time and location to be decided at this mobile event at the next
call - tomorrow, July 28th at 8am.
JEFFREYS BAY, South Africa (Sunday, July 18, 2010) - Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22, has claimed his maiden ASP elite victory, taking out the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay over Adam Melling (AUS), 25, in front of a capacity hometown crowd.
Event No. 4 of 10 on the 2010 ASP World Tour, the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay was nothing but blaring Vuvuzelas and roars from the bluff as these two titans went tit-for-tat in an incredible Final exchange. The young South African proved the victor, dominating from the outset and securing an emotional first win.
"This is the best day of my life," Smith said. "The crowd on the beach has been supporting me the last few days and hearing the cheers and the Vuvuzelas just gets me fired up to perform. It feels like they're pushing me along. I couldn't have done it without them."
The most experienced surfer at Jeffreys Bay, Smith left very little to chance in the Final against Melling, opening his account with a blazing 8.90 before backing it up with some scintillating forehand surfing for a 9.03. The combination of scores (17.93 out of a possible 20) proved insurmountable for Melling.
"I knew the swell was dying and I had to take advantage of every wave that came through," Smith said. "Adam (Melling) is such a dangerous surfer. He's been in form all day and I knew that if he got the waves, he would get the scores. I went out there knowing I had to open up strong."
After taking the ratings' lead over former nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater (USA), 38, yesterday, Smith solidified his position as the ASP World No. 1 with today's emphatic victory.
"It definitely is a different feeling," Smith said. "To be chasing the lead and defending the lead are two different things. It's a long year ahead and you can't count anyone out until it's over. I'm going to enjoy this feeling for now."
Smith's Final's berth almost never was, as the big South African was comboed by lethal Australian Bede Durbidge (AUS), 27, with four minutes remaining in their Semifinal clash. Catching two waves in under a minute, Smith unloaded a barrage of aerials and forehand blasts to claw his way back into the lead.
"I'm still not too sure what happened - it's all a blur," Smith said. "I got that first one where I did the little grab air that I didn't think was good, but the judges scored the whole wave pretty well. Then I backed it up and put everything I had into it."
Melling's "Cinderella" climb to the Finals was nothing short of sensational. Rated a lowly 41st on the ASP World Title Race rankings heading into Jeffreys Bay, the 2010 ASP Dream Tour rookie powered his way through five rounds of competition before coming short in the Final. His Runner-Up finish sees him bumped up to ASP World No. 19, well inside the safety zone for the dreaded mid-year field reduction.
"The ocean didn't cooperate with me in the Final so that's a shame but I couldn't be happier," Melling said. "We had amazing waves and to get the best result of my career is huge. I came into Jeffreys with a long road ahead if I were to make the mid-year cut-off, and now that I'm 19th, I feel like I have a bit of a buffer heading into Tahiti. I worked really hard to get here and I want to stay here."
Durbidge suffered one of the hardest losses of the event, having defeat snatched from the jaws of victory by a last-minute crusade by Smith. Despite the bitter loss, Durbidge's Equal 3rd vaults him from 10th to 7th on the ASP World Title Race rankings heading into the fifth event of the year.
"I had him comboed with only four minutes to go," Durbidge said. "He took off on that one-footer and pulled that 'Superman' air and finished off well, then came out and got another one. I think he got two waves in a minute or something. It's a hard way to lose, but Semifinals is my best result of the year and it's something to build on. The focus is on Tahiti now."
Taj Burrow (AUS), 32, consistently wowed audiences with his performance from Round 1 onwards, collecting the event's highest heat total in yesterday's Round 4. Despite today's Semifinal loss at the hands of Melling, the Western Australian moves up to ASP World No. 2 heading into Tahiti.
Highlights from the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay will be available via www.billabongpro.com/jbay10
The event will be broad LIVE on FUEL TV in Australia.
Official fores for the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay brought to you by Surfline.
The next stop on the 2010 ASP World Tour is the Billabong Pro Tahiti from August 23 through September 3, 2010.
For more information, log onto www.aspworldtour.com
Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay Final Results:
1 - Jordy Smith (ZAF) 17.93
2 - Adam Melling (AUS) 10.00
Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay Semifinal Results:
SF 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 14.83 def. Bede Durbidge (AUS) 14.40
SF 2: Adam Melling (AUS) 14.00 def. Taj Burrow (AUS) 10.67
Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay Quarterfinal Results:
QF 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 16.43 def. Adriano de Souza (BRA) 9.20
QF 2: Bede Durbidge (AUS) 12.17 def. Sean Holmes (ZAF) 11.83
QF 3: Taj Burrow (AUS) 11.00 def. Dane Reynolds (USA) 3.66
QF 4: Adam Melling (AUS) 16.43 def. Damien Hobgood (USA) 5.67
Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay Remaining Round 4 Results:
Heat 8: Adam Melling (AUS) 17.07 def. Dusty Payne (HAW) 11.50
Current ASP World Title Race Top 5 (after South Africa):
1. Jordy Smith (ZAF) 28500 pts
2. Taj Burrow (AUS) 24750 pts
3. Kelly Slater (USA) 23500 pts
4. Dane Reynolds (USA) 20000 pts
5. Adriano de Souza (BRA) 19500 pts
6. Mick Fanning (AUS) 19250 pts
7. Bede Durbidge (AUS) 18750 pts
8. Bobby Martinez (USA) 16500 pts
9. Jadson Andre (BRA) 16000 pts
10. Joel Parkinson (AUS) 14750 pts
Jordy Smith rips apart the point breaks of Mexico.
Alek Parker continues his hurricane chasing adventures. Hunting down Hurricane Alex, the first hurricane of the 2010 season. Good friend and East Coast legend, Cory Lopez, joins Parker in the great state of Texas.
Cory Lopez and Alek Parker go from the first Hurricane swell of the season to a solid southern hemi.
July 8, 2010, Scheveningen, Netherlands – For the third year running O'Neill brought the joy of surfing to a group of visually impaired children on the beach in Holland.
A group of 19 kids aged between 8 and 13 years old with varying degrees of blindness were selected to spend a sunny summer's day on Scheveningen beach – some of them by the sea for the first time ever – learning to surf under the tuition of Santa Cruz local instructor Joey Hudson as well as a host of volunteers from O'Neill.
For most there was a sense of excitement, but even those with a fear of getting in the water were soon overcome with the thrill of the experience.
"I wasn't actually scared of the water," said 8 year old Max den Enting. "I just found it really challenging learning to surf." For Max, who is completely blind, the experience however challenging, was definitely one he won't forget in a while. "It was such an exciting experience to be picked up by a wave and feel like you are almost being taken away with it."
The O'Neill Out of Bounds programme was established two years ago on Scheveningen beach as an extension to the already existing O'Neill Surf Academy.
So popular and successful has been the programme that last year's participants Leroy Le Rock and his twin brother Justin returned to Scheveningen beach with their own surfboards to show the instructors how much they had progressed.
"We wanted to come back to say hi to the guys from California who taught us last year – Travis, Joey and Pete," said Leroy. "This experience changed our lives," said Justin. "Surfing is a big part of our lives now. We are always asking our parents to take us to the beach. We have our boards in the car ready to go. I have a medium board and Leroy has a long board
And it's not just the kids who benefit from this day in the water. From the instructors to all the volunteers who are paired up with a child in the water, this is time and time again one of the most rewarding days of the year.
"We come to Europe for the Surf Academy every year and love it," said head instructor and Santa Cruz local surfer, Joey Hudson. "But this Out of Bounds day is by far the most rewarding experience you can have as an instructor. To see these kids slightly scared at the start of the day, then standing up on a board and so excited to be surfing a wave is amazing."
The O'Neill Surf Academy was started 13 years ago by Jay Moriarity, Richard Schmidt and Robert "Wingnut" together with O'Neill. Offering free day-long surf tuition to kids between the ages of 6-16 years old, it provides hundreds of children their first experience of surfing.
Following the Out of Bounds Day, the O'Neill Surf Academy 2010 will continue through Holland before heading to France and then the UK
Twenty- two-year old Jordy Smith (Dbn) etched his name into the history books today, becoming the third ever South African winner of the Mr Price Pro Ballito, simultaneously moving into the No. 1 position on the ASP One World Rankings.
Smith defeated South Coast star Casey Grant (Scottburgh) in the final to claim an emotional victory before his home crowd. Riding high on the shoulders of his friends, some of Durban's finest surfers as the crowds exploded into cheers of support, Smith was awarded his enormous R121 000 winner's cheque.
"I haven't won an event in front of my home crowd since I was fifteen," Smith said (Smith won the ISA World Junior Games in Durban). "This is just wild! I am so happy right now I don't event know what to say!"
A standout from start to finish, the powerful natural-footer (front foot forward stance) who stands at an enormous 188 cm tall, used his priority to wait patiently for the better-set waves. Unleashing a devastating combination of power carves and fin drifts, Smith posted 7.50 and 6.33 (out of ten) scores off the bat, putting his opponent into a combination situation (needing a combination of two scoring rides) within the first 13 minutes of the heat.
Grant clawed his way back with an impressive three-second barrel ride to put himself back in contention with a 7.33 but it was not to be for the recently turned 21-year-old. Smith soon replied with a 7.93 for a series of savage on the rail carves to seal his victory. "Casey has been one of the most outstanding surfers of this event and I knew I had to bring my A game against him," Smith said.
Despite creasing his board during the semi finals, as well as breaking his favourite board during a free surfing session earlier in the week, Smith looked comfortable and in control throughout the week enjoying some of the best surfing conditions the KwaDukuza coastline has to offer.
"I haven't had waves this good for a while, I've been travelling all around the world and it's crazy to say that the best waves in the world are in my back yard," Smith said. "We're so lucky we've had the opportunity to surf here and I'm really happy that a South African won and made the finals."
Advancing into World No. 1 on the ASP One World Rankings, Smith's result puts him in a fantastic position heading into the next World Tour stop the Billabong Pro Jeffrey's Bay next week. "Its great to be at number one but it's a long road ahead," Smith said. "I kinda look at it like boxing, there's 12 rounds and we've only been through four so there's plenty more to go and you have to hang tight."
Standing shoulder to shoulder with his surfing icon, Grant could not have been happier with his runner-up result. While he could hardly afford to buy a cup of coffee this morning, his result today ensured that Grant will fall asleep R68 222 richer tonight.
"I never dreamed I would be up here alongside Jordy," Grant said. "It's such an honour because I have looked up to him my whole life. It's been an amazing day and I can't wait till that prize money comes in! It's been a blessing to be in contention for the title and to win all this money. Words cant even described how stoked I am right now!"
Touted by the international judging panel as the next big talent to come out of South Africa, Grant displayed incredible flair and style throughout the event, recording one of the single highest wave scores of the competition, a 9.33 (out of ten) earlier in the week.
"It's definitely given me a lot of confidence and a lot of people have said to me I better start stepping it up," Grant said. "I think I'll be doing a few more events this year and then hit the Star Tour full time in 2011."
Placing equal fifth today were Royden Bryson (EL) and Klee Strachan (Winkelspruit) both of whom were eliminated during the semi finals, taking home a respectable R34 112 each.
After an impressive victory over Damien Fahrenfort (Dbn) during the quarterfinals, Bryson proved no match for Smith during their semi final. Smith put some tubes to good use, turning the tables against Bryson by rapidly notching up 7.33 and 7.5 scores, forcing Bryson to settle for second.
2008 ASP Africa Pro Junior Champion Klee Strachan found himself at the bitter end of a seesaw battle against Grant, the pair of South Coast surfers going toe-to-toe with almost identical scores. Eventually it was the fast, flashy surfing from Grant that earned him a 7.17 to bump Strachan off the leader's board, sailing into the final.
Damien Fahrenfort (CT), Greg Emslie (EL) and Beyrick De Vries (Umhl) took top honours during the Island Tribe Expression Session, the threesome earning R7000 each. Fahrenfort secured his win for the biggest aerial manoeuvre while De Vries took home the goods for the most radical manoeuvre. Emslie won the award for the most powerful manoeuvre.
Crowds flocked to Ballito's golden sands as sunshine and blue skies provided an idyllic setting for the final day of South Africa's longest running surfing competition.
RESULTS
Quarterfinals
Heat 2: Royden Bryson (ZAF) 11.00 def Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF) 8.60
Heat 3: Casey Grant (ZAF) 14.50 def Travis Logie (ZAF) 12.20
Heat 4: Klee Strachan (ZAF) 8.74 def Brendon Gibbens (ZAF) 8.64
Semifinals
Heat 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 14.83 def Royden Bryson (ZAF) 11.50
Heat 2: Casey Grant (ZAF) 13.34 def Klee Strachan (ZAF) 11.16
Finals
Jordy Smith (ZAF) 15.43 def Casey Grant (ZAF) 12.43
Team O'Neill highlights from Lower Trestles
You heard it from us first. Noah Schweizer will be the next major talent coming out of the East Coast. The younger brother of Nil’s Schweizer, hailing from New Smyrna Beach, look for big things from this kid in the near future.
The O'Neill Wake Team stops by the O'Neill office for a highly contested game of lightning. The players included Scott Byerly, Collin Harrington, Nick Taylor, Kyle Rattray, Scotty Broome, and Jacob Valdez. Rattray took home the title.
New Jersey’s own, Zack Humphreys, enjoying summer in the Northeast.
O'Neill dive are pleased to help out the Sea Shepherd crew on their mission to save our ocean's endangered species.
For more information on how you can help please visit : www.seashepherd.org
What do you get when you combine some of the finest junior surfers in Europe, a dream house on the beach in Anglet, France, a few words of wisdom from a couple of pro surfers and an elite coach, and a clean swell hitting the fabled sands of this French surfing mecca?
Anglet, France – May 31 2010 -
What do you get when you combine some of the finest junior surfers in Europe, a
dream house on the beach in Anglet, France, a few words of wisdom from a couple
of pro surfers and an elite coach, and a clean swell hitting the fabled sands
of this French surfing mecca? It's the 2010 O'Neill surf training camp of
course!
This year's get together of the European O'Neill junior team has been widely
regarded as the best ever.
The Surfers
Gaspard Larsonneur (Fr), Nelson Cloarec (Fr), Tom Cloarec (Fr), Alizé Arnaud
(Fr), Pascal van der Mast (Ned), José Ferreira (Prt), Joackim Guichard
(Prt), Luca Guichard (Prt), Ethan Eguiguren (Esp), Borja Agote (Esp), Stuart
Campbell (UK), Luis Eyre (UK), Tassy Swallow (UK).
The Idea
Bring the junior surfers on the European O'Neill surf team together for a week
in a prime wave location and give them the tools and support to make them into
the best surfers they can possibly be.
Three coaches, Adi Gluska (pro surfer - Israel), Xavier Huart (pro surf coach)
and Sam Lamiroy ( pro surfer – UK) were guiding the whole week. Key areas of
focus were technical analysis using video feedback, basic surf specific
stretching and conditioning routines and also, for the first time, media
training and character analysis to help these young riders develop their media
profile.
The location
A large villa, with it's own swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, plenty of space for
fitness/ stretching routines, 500m from the beach ( la Madrague) Fully stocked
with healthy food and delicious meals freshly prepared each day… just perfect.
The Result
The assembled surferes raised the bar as far as performance levels are
concerned. As Xavier Huart noted – " We have never previously had such a
highly talented group of young surfers ( boys and girls) within the O'Neill
team. Going forward from this camp we can really expect to see some great
performances from them in the near future"
The best guide to the success of a camp like this to ask the surfers themselves
–
Stuart Campbell saide: "Obviously this was a great location right on the beach,
which meant we could get in the water all the time. We had great conditions all
week. It was great to get the whole team together, it really felt like a
bonding experience. For me the stretching routines, tailor made for
surfing, were a massive help. Its a huge help what O'Neill are doing for us –
what resources they making are available to us and the tools, in the form of
coaches, guidance and training that are at our disposal. Stuart finished
4th in the open men's division of the English national championships two days
after attending the training camp.
The last word should go to Bram van Vugt, O'Neil team manager; "This camp was
really fantastic. It was great to be able to help these talented kids on their
way to hopefully realizing their own individual dreams and ambitions. I'm
really proud to have such a great bunch of kids as part of the O'Neill family."
They’re here to blow up, takes names, and leave their mark on the industry. They are untouchable…they are the Kings of Freak.
Check out Jordy on Grindtv's Daily Grind!
Jordy shows up and blows up with a perfect 10 in his Round of 96 heat of the Lowers Pro
Taken from Surfermag.com
Undoubtedly one of the most technical junior surfers of today, up until a few months ago, most of us weren't familiar with the name Matt Meola. When a video of the sinewy goofyfoot sticking a litany of some of the biggest airs we've ever seen went viral a few months back, the world took notice of this new prodigy. With the Valley Island building a reputation for producing a host of the best surfers in the world over the past decade, the ascent of Matt Meola is one that were duley noting. Recently, we caught up with Matt to learn where he came from and where he plans on going.
In the past year, you've really begun to make a name for yourself. Can you tell us a bit about who you are?
I was born here in Maui, Hawaii and I am 20 years young. I grew up in Haiku but spent most of my time in a small beach town called Kuau, where my friends and I used to meet up every day to go surf and be groms. As for school, I switched back and forth between home and public but ended up graduating from home school in 2007. Now I'm still living in Haiku and doing my best to keep up with all the rest of the talented surfers coming from Maui.
You're regarded as being one of the most talented and progressive young surfers coming out of Hawaii these days. Being from Maui, with a whole host of guys now at the forefront of surfing, would you say those guys paved the way for you?
I am so lucky to have such great people and surfers to look up to. Guys like Hank Gaskell, Ola Eleogram, and Ian Walsh definitely paved a solid road for us to follow. They are the ones that put Maui on the map and I feel like it is our job to keep it there. They definitely made it possible for all of us and I think we owe them tons of respect.
Can you describe the surf scene on Maui? How is it similar to the rest of the islands? And maybe more importantly, how is different?
The surf scene on Maui is great. It's mellow and has a more country vibe to it than somewhere like Oahu. At times it can be difficult. We don't have the consistency of the other islands due to the strong wind and smaller outer islands that block some swell. We get our fair share of bad waves. Unlike the North Shore of Oahu, when there is swell you are stuck with a decision to to turn right or left. You could spend hours driving just to find out that the other side of the island was firing. Aside from that, the surf scene on Maui is home to my favorite waves and people in the world and I wouldn't trade it for anywhere else.
Why do you think so many good surfers are coming out of Maui these days?
We're all a tight group of friends that push each other. We also have good people to look up to. Other than that, I don't know. Maybe it's something in the water we drink.
Would you say that Maui has the best crop of young surfers in the world right now?
There are so many good surfers all over the world now, but when it comes down to it I guess Maui takes the cake for best crop of young up-and-comers. Being an island in the middle of the Pacific, there isn't much to do here besides surf. I think that's why Maui's talent pool is so deep.
Not too long ago, you were featured in the NY Times' website about aerial surfing alongside Christian Fletcher and Slater. Was that a trip to see yourself in the mix with those guys?
When I first saw the article I was baffled. To hear my name listed next to people that I have looked up to forever was an honor. It was definitely a huge confidence booster.
Are you planning on entering the Kustom Airstrike event?
The Kustom Airstrike is always in the back of my mind every session. Watching Dusty win it last year was sick. Time is ticking down so hopefully I can bag a keeper before the time is up. It would be awesome to keep that title on Maui.
In your eyes, who's the most progressive surfer alive right now?
In my eyes the most progressive surfer alive right now is Clay Marzo. I have the privilege of watching him surf at his home breaks and some of the stuff he does just leaves me boggled.
And in five years, what do you expect surfing to look like?
If you would have asked me this question five years ago I would never have thought it would have escalated to where it is now. After seeing how fast it's progressing, I'm guessing there will be all kinds of flips and spins going down that we couldn't even imagine. Where ever it goes, I hope to be a part of it.
With a equal 5th place finish after Brazil, Jordy Smith has moved up the ratings to #2 in the World. J Bay is up next. Look for a solid showing from Jordy at one of his favorite waves.
Nick Taylor on his recent trip to the Philippines. Taylor gives you a POV perspective on the countries best cable parks.
Alek Parker and Luke Davis shred the Lowers lineup with the rest of the O’Neill grom crew.
April 20, 2010 (São Paulo, Brazil) – O'Neill (www.oneill.com), the original surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, has added another world-class name to its roster of athletes with the signing of Raoni Monteiro, arguably one of the world's best all-around surfer. Monteiro joins other top O'Neill surfer, including Jordy Smith, Bobby Martinez, Cory Lopez, Mark Mathews, Roy Powers and Timmy Reyes.
The 27-year-old regular footer from Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, has been riding for 23 years, growing up inside the barrels of the Brazilian's most powerful wave, Itaúna. Known for his fluid, powerful and radical style, at the age of seven he took part in his first competition and has never stopped. The excellent results emerged with WQS podiums, showing his maturity at the age of 20 on the ASP World Tour.
After qualifying for the WCT in 2003, Raoni remained in the elite for four year, being touted as the most potential Brazilian surfer with a chance to win the World Title. A knee surgery made his performance difficult in 2008, and consequently his chance at the top 45.
But now Monteiro is back, recovered and stronger than ever. With two very expressive results in both Prime (2nd in Fernando de Noronha) and Six Stars (3rd in the O'Neill CWC Scotland) events on the WQS, he has started 2010 with good ASP ratings points to track his way back to the WCT. "To be part of O'Neill team is great because it gives me even better motivation to keep strong on the Tour", said Monteiro. "I' m glad that now I belong to an important brand which represents a lot to the surf history."
"Now that O'Neill is coming back to Brazil, one of our priorities will be to put together a strong surf team flying the green and yellow flag around the planet," said O'Neill Brazil Marketing Director, Adrian Kojin. "This way, I couldn't be happier to announce that we are signing Raoni Monteiro, widely considered as one of the very best Brazilian surfers ever to take part in the World Circuit. It's our desire to support him in his quest to regain his slot on the WCT so he can have a shot at the World Title, and with his last results he is been showing that he is ready for that."
Lord Royden Bryson wins the O'Neill Cold Water
Classic Scotland 2010 in perfect Thurso East Conditions
THE MOST NORTHERN, THE MOST SOUTHERN, THE WILDEST,
THE COLDEST & THE MOST CLASSIC SURF CONTEST ON THE PLANET
April 19, 2010 – Thurso, Scotland – Lord Royden Bryson has won the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland 2010 in epic Thurso East conditions.
"Really?! I am a Lord?" asked Royden. "I had no idea! I was just so happy with the ASP ratings points and the $20,000 from this competition as well as that highland sword. That's amazing that I have land and am a Lord!"
South African Royden and Brazilian Yuri Sodre – now also Lord Yuri - paddled out for the final heat of this 2010 competition in 6 foot Thurso East, with the sun shining and a gentle offshore wind blowing.
"It was such a beautiful morning," said Royden. However it was 25 minutes until he got a wave in the final, with a restart after 10 minutes while the swell had a temporary little break.
"I was just worried about staying warm out there," said Royden. "It was a long time in the water." But he made the wait worth it with a score of 8.33 from his first wave, following that up with a 5.50.
"I am just so excited to win," said Royden. "I feel like I've had a lot of close results recently. And to actually get there and win again feels amazing."
After such a varied and unique week of surfing the finals today were always going to be something special – especially when Thurso woke on the bright Monday morning to snow on the ground and a frost in the air.
"I got up really early this morning – about 5am to go for a freesurf," said semi finalist Shaun Cansdell. "There was snow everywhere. I couldn't even see out of the car window – everything was frozen. I was so stoked I did it. It was such a nice morning"
Shaun surfed a high scoring close semi final heat against eventual winner Royden Bryson starting at 7.30am as the snow and frost started to melt from the surrounding fields.
"The waves were pumping," said Shaun. "It really came together for the final. I haven't had a result in a while so I am so happy to get third.
Now the competition is over, the surfers gathered here in Thurso have a new challenge ahead of them… getting home. "I haven't looked into my flight yet, but it looks like there is no way out of here at the moment," said Shaun. "However being stuck here isn't too bad an option. It's a choice of either getting barreled or getting powder in the mountains a few hours away," he said. "Eventually though it will be good to get home."
The O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series now looks to move onto its third event of the year over in Cape Town, South Africa in July. And all the surfers will be chasing those valuable CWC Series ratings points in the battle for the $50,000 for the series winner.
Currently in equal first are CWC Tasmania winner Stuart Kennedy, and Royden Bryson.
"I think me and Stu are equal at the moment. I got quarters here and he got quarters in Tasmania," said Royden. "It will be good to go to South Africa now – my home turf and see what happens there. But yeah, that $50,000 is definitely on my mind now."
FACTS AND FIGURES:
FIVE events exploring the edges of the world over four continents.
FIVE challenging, quality waves all in extreme and not to mention cold conditions.
FIVE ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) events rugged and unique locations in the depths of nature.
Taken from ESPN.com. Photo credit: Joli
Back in February Bobby Martinez gave ESPN Surfing a candid interview, in which he called out the ASP's new One World Ranking system, Channel Islands Surfboards, and Kelly Slater. Apparently, a few people read it, and the responses ranged from amusement to concern. Our colleagues at Stab Magazine even got responses from Channel Islands and Slater. Two stops into this year's World Tour, Martinez has two semifinals under his belt and sits alone in fourth on the current rankings. We caught up with him during his short break between Bells and Brazil to see how the dust-up affected him. Once again, we weren't disappointed.
So, the last time we spoke a few people were listening. Slater even responded to your remark, "He's only riding fishes because he can't get a good shortboard."
Ha. Yeah, I heard about it. I have a friend at Channel Islands and he was like, "I have to reply to these guys at Stab about what you said." He's a good friend of mine. It was too funny, but it's all good.
Have you made any fish cracks to Slater since?
Yeah. Well, he sent me a text right after it ran and asked "Are you mad at me?" And I just said, "What are you talking about?" I really didn't know. I saw him after that and we talked. He just really takes everything to heart. I told him -- at least you know where I'm coming from. I'll say what I feel (publicly) and not behind your back.
He was like "I won six out of seven contests the year before last, not on a fish." I agreed with him on that, but I told him I was talking about last year.
This time last year, you guys were heading to Teahupoo. Have you seen the forecast for Tahiti?
No, does it look good? Who was I just talking about this with? We were just saying that they're probably going to get this great swell next week and it's going to be crappy and flat when we go. But there's always swell in Brazil. The wave isn't very good, but there's always been swell in the past.
Much of the talk last year with the alternate tour had to do with an increase in prize money. The ASP stepped up the earnings this year (four million dollars over the ten events in 2010 up from 3.4 million last year). Has it made a difference? Are any of the boys living differently this year? Anyone showing up in a stretch and drinking champagne for breakfast?
It isn't even close to that. This year if you get 33rd place, it's like a thousand dollars more. When they were talking about a new tour, it was a lot more money even for the guys who finished the event at the bottom.
Last time we spoke, you said that the surfers would go where the purse was. The prize money was really all that mattered.
Yeah. This year is barely any different than last year. Nothing has changed much but first place. You have to win the event to see a major difference in earnings. The money isn't going to affect anyone else in a positive way. If anything, they've just caught up with the times and the price of things.
Freddy Patacchia got fined for saying on a live webcast interview that the beach commentators at the Rip Curl Pro had part of Owen Wrights' anatomy in their mouths during his heat. A lot of people see this as an example of why it's bad that event sponsors also own the media rights to those events. Does it really matter to anyone in the water? Don't you think that an announcer is going to blow up a rider at his home venue like the the Lakers announcer at the Forum?
I feel Freddy on that. He told me all about it afterward. It's not that they were blowing up Owen Wright. Freddy just wanted to hear his score and Drew's (Courtney) score. He had no idea who was in the lead or what he needed to post.
I understand them blowing a guy up. They all do it. Hurley announcers do it for Hurley riders. Billabong announcers do it for Billabong riders. But you have to be respectful. Everyone deserves to know what's going on. I love what Freddy said. That s--t gets old and that's what I love about Freddy. You have to know where you are sitting to do your best, otherwise they are taking something from you.
You signed with O'Neill this year. How's that going?
It's been so good. This is the happiest I have ever been. It was definitely worth the wait.
Does that have something to do with your good start?
Yeah. It's just cool. Garth (Tarlow) is there at the events because he wants to be there. I've never had this kind of help in that category before. He really cares and he helps out with everything from a place to stay, bringing things I may have forgot, watching the waves before my heat, and giving me feedback. I've never had that in my career. He's there for every heat. I trust his opinion and I truly believe he's there for all the right reasons.
Riding for O'Neill, you're now a teammate of Jordy Smith. If you watch everyone's video sections now, you would think that he would pretty much dominate everything from three to six-foot. When is that going to translate into a serious world title run?
I think it's already started. I don't know what else you can say. He can very realistically win this year.
After Trestles, the field for each event is going to drop from 45 surfers to 32, plus four wildcards. Wildcards are going to be very important to guys on the bubble, but sponsors traditionally get to pick a few wildcards. What if you're surfing for a company that doesn't own any World Tour events? For instance, O'Neill has a lot of stake in the WQS, but nothing on the World Tour.
Oh yeah. Guys have gotten a free ride in the past on their sponsors. And everyone is going to be shooting for those slots to build points. I don't really know exactly. I don't know if the wildcard points are going to roll over if you're not on the World Tour. Some guy might have a huge advantage to do one event and get World Tour points. I don't know if the ASP even knows how that's going to work.
Before the season started you didn't think anyone really got all the intricacies of the new system.
There are still a ton of question marks. They have these surfer meetings and the ASP sends out these emails. I don't go to the meetings and I don't read the emails, because so much of it winds up being b.s. I call Bede (Durbidge) and ask him any questions that I might have. And at the end of the day, I still don't know how it's going to work out.
Snow storms hit as the semi finalists decided at
the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland
THE MOST NORTHERN, THE MOST SOUTHERN, THE WILDEST,
THE COLDEST & THE MOST CLASSIC SURF CONTEST ON THE PLANET
April 18, 2010 – Thurso, Scotland – The O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland has a reputation for throwing up some of the coldest and most challenging conditions on the tour. But today hit new levels for both the event and professional surfing's record books with snow storms setting in as the event reached its closing stages.
"It was crazy paddling out with snow coming into your eyes," said Shaun Cansdell who made it into the semi final with a last minute wave against Irish surfer Glenn Hall. "We don't have snow where I am from in Australia so I have never surfed in conditions like this. The cold isn't too bad. It's just my big toes that go numb!"
"I was loving it," said Glenn Hall shivering on the reef. "It was such an incredible feeling to sit out there with the snow falling. Plus if it's going to be cold it may as well go all the way and snow as well. It's better than the rain."
With a 7am start back again at Thurso East the 6 Star ASP event started with the round of 24, moving all the way through to the end of the quarterfinals to set up the final assault for tomorrow.
With similar conditions of 4 to 5 foot swell and light winds forecast for the final day, Royden Bryson, and Shaun Cansdell will surf in the first semifinal.
The second semi final is an all-Brazilian affair. Yuri Sodre beat Marc Lacomare in his quarterfinal. He will surf against Raoni Monteiro who was the in-form surfer of the day winning a thrilling and close quarterfinal against the Cold Water Classic Tasmania winner Stuart Kennedy.
"I was so excited to get that final wave score," said Raoni. "And so excited to be in the semi finals at this event."
Now all eyes are firmly set upon one of the most coveted trophies in the world of professional surfing: the Highland Sword.
"I am so cold and I am so tired right now," said South African Royden Bryson after winning his quarterfinal heat against Nathanial Curran. "But I am one step closer to the sword. I really want that sword. I would sleep with that thing under my bed," he said.
For Yuri Sodre, the sword has been on his mind since before even arriving in Thurso: "I stopped in Edinburgh on the way up here with my girlfriend," he said. "We saw a lot of the Scottish heritage and I actually wanted to buy a Highland sword when I was there. It was my girlfriend who said to me - why don't you just try to win one instead?"
"It would be such a great prize to have with all the heritage and history involved in it. And great that we don't need to kill anyone or fight to get it –just surf and have fun."
The call for the semi finals and finals will be made tomorrow April 19th at 7am
THE O'NEILL CWC SCOTLAND WILL BE SHOWN LIVE AT www.oneill.com/live or www.oneill.com/cwc
FACTS AND FIGURES:
FIVE events exploring the edges of the world over four continents.
FIVE challenging, quality waves all in extreme and not to mention cold conditions.
FIVE ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) events rugged and unique locations in the depths of nature.
April 14, 2010 – Thurso, Scotland – Scottish surfer Chris Noble today made history as the first local competitor to ever come through this first round of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland in the freezing waters of the most northerly event in professional surfing.
Finishing top of his heat ahead of Brazilian surfer Ricardo Dos Santos, Chris was celebrating on the beach with a host of fans… and his Scottish flag.
"It's only the first round," he said. "But it feels like I won the event or something!" said Chris. "I think the difference this year was that there was no pressure on me," he said. "I have a kid now, and we are expecting a second kid, so whereas surfing used to be the be-all-and-end-all for me, I now have different priorities so there is less pressure. I just get to go out there and have fun."
And that he looked like he was doing, making the most of the 4-foot offshore clean conditions at Brims Ness. "I've surfed out here for about 10 years," said Chris. "And even though I am used to the cold, I still have my earplugs in against the cold water and the wind."
After a sunny warm start to the 6 Star ASP event yesterday, the 6.30am call for a 7.30am start this morning was a little bit more crisp as the skies clouded over and the temperature significantly dropped.
Among those feeling the cold up here is the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Tasmania winner Stuart Kennedy: "I didn't mind the cold in Tassie," said the Australian from Lennox Head. "Temperature-wise it's paradise over there compared to here. This is freezing. I have a 5/4/3 wetsuit and two 4/3's so I came prepared. In the water my body is ok, but my toes still get frozen even in my boots," he said.
However having seen the surf up in these parts, he is willing to brave the cold. "I've seen footage of Thurso East and hopefully we will get that working while we are out here. It looks like home on a fun day."
Despite his victory in Tasmania a few weeks ago Stuart has not been amped off his win. "It didn't really feel like I won an event," he said. "Straight from my win I got in the car, drove to Launceston airport in Tasmania, and got on the plane for Melbourne to go straight into Bells!"
The second day of competition here in Thurso, Scotland, saw the event finish the round of 128 in smaller but clean conditions at Brims Ness. "The swell dropped today – but it was luckily enough to finish off this round," said contest director Matt Wilson.
"The forecast looks like it's going to pick up tomorrow so we will probably be starting here at Brims again in the morning," said Matt. "But if it holds good we should hopefully be surfing Thurso East in the afternoon."
The next call will be at 7am tomorrow morning April 15th.
WATCH THE O'NEILL CWC SCOTLAND LIVE AT www.oneill.com/live or www.oneill.com/cwc
April 13, 2010 – Thurso, Scotland – With the sun shining, a solid three to four foot swell at Brims Ness and light winds, this was no ordinary day at the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland.
"As we say up here: don't blink," said event Ambassador Andy Bain. "These conditions can change so quickly – but it's great while it's here."
It was an early start on the first day of this second stop on the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series in Thurso - the northernmost town on the British mainland.
With a 6.30am call, the surfers were in the water for the first heat of the round of 128 at 7.30am as the sun was still burning off the early morning mist.
"It's a really beautiful area up here," said Nicolaus Van Rupp who cruised through top of his heat in this first round. "It's my first time up here. But I am loving it. It's so nice to have a different experience on the tour with the cold water. It makes for a different atmosphere – plus with the perfect slabs up here, it's amazing."
Whilst the conditions might have been peaceful, the atmosphere in the water was of course anything but with surfers battling for valuable points from this 6 Star ASP Event, as well as vital points on the O'Neill CWC Series rankings – for the chance to win $50,000 at the end of the Series in October.
"I always heard stories about Brims, with people snaking each other because the peak is so small," said Nicolaus Van Rupp. "It's really intense when you get out there, you are so close to each other, you are almost breathing up each other's necks," he said.
As the tide changed, and the perfection that can be seen at Brims diminished slightly, contest director Matt Wilson made the call to stop the round of 128 at heat 8.
"This is what we expected from today," said Matt. "Clean 3 to 4 foot surf – a good way to get this event started this year."
"It looks from the charts at the moment that we could be at Thurso East for a couple of days,' said Matt. "It's always good and reassuring to have Brims as a back up though especially as the swell that's coming in looks like its bringing a bit of wild weather with it too."
The next call is at 6.30am tomorrow April 14, 2010 for a possible 7.30am start to start with Heat 9 in the round of 128.
.
THE O'NEILL CWC SCOTLAND WILL BE SHOWN LIVE AT www.oneill.com/live or www.oneill.com/cwc
The sun comes out to welcome the surfers
to this first day at The O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland
Here’s another look into the musical mind of Mishka, with the track “These Waves”
Bells was not her usual self this year. With only one of the four days ran at the famous right hand point break, O'Neill team athletes had their work cut out for them in every condition imaginable. Bobby Martinez continued his 2010 title campaign with his second equal 3rd in as many events, eventually losing to contest winner Slater in the semis. Jordy Smith came in with a 5th and Roy Powers finished with a 9th. Next up is Brazil!!!
Surfers ready to brave the cold as The O'Neill Cold Water Classic ventures north into the icy waters of Northern Scotland
THE MOST NORTHERN, THE MOST SOUTHERN, THE WILDEST,THE COLDEST & THE MOST CLASSIC SURF CONTEST ON THE PLANET
April 9, 2010 – Thurso, Scotland – The Northern Hemisphere's winter might officially be over, but as the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series travels to the most northerly town on the British mainland, for the 144 surfers getting into the water, it will feel like anything but.
Following one of the coldest European winters on record, and with recent blizzards and snowfall up in the northeast of Scotland, this is going to be one grueling O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland event when it gets in the water from April 13th.
"It's been pretty cold," said local legend and event ambassador Andy Bain. "The river has been freezing up," he said. "There were a couple days you couldn't even surf Thurso East because of the chunks of ice coming down the river."
The 6-Star ASP event in Thurso follows an epic start to the Cold Water Classic Series in March in the wilds of Tasmania, Australia where Stuart Kennedy took victory in perfect 2-meter conditions.
Now as the Series moves to the other side of the world for the northernmost event in professional surfing, it will discover powerful world-class waves to rival Hawaii's North Shore on their day – in some of the most challenging conditions a surfer could face. With both the air and water temperatures hovering uncomfortably low, coupled with the persistent rain and hail - this is the ultimate Cold Water Classic experience. And yet the surfers flood back year after year to brave the conditions.
Among them is the competition's 2007 runner-up, Jarrad Howse. "There's something about the history and heritage of Thurso that takes my breath away every year," he says. "From the drive up there through the snowy highlands to the amazing slate bottom hollow waves, Scotland's northerly coast is my favorite stop on tour and I am not alone."
With a mobile format, the competition is free to make the most of the quality on offer on this coastline - from the steep fast and shallow wave of Brims Ness to the perfection of Thurso East.
"Thurso can see some pretty challenging conditions," said Jarrad. "But in epic 6 to 8 foot Thurso East, no one is complaining. Everyone is after that Highland Sword trophy."
As is tradition with this event, the historic sword is presented to the winner in a reef-side ceremony presided over by Andy Bain. It is not just the sword the surfers are competing for – but also the opportunity to win the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series title – and the $50,000 prize money.
After his win in Tasmania, Stuart Kennedy is currently leading the assault on the $50,000, however, with the likes of Cory Lopez, Dayyan Neve, Tim Boal, Shaun Cansdell and Timmy Reyes making the trip up to Scotland's north coast, maintaining this lead will be no easy feat.
Following Scotland the Cold Water Classic Series will move on to the wildest event in professional surfing in Cape Town, South Africa, before professional surfing's coldest event in Tofino, Canada, and it's most classic in Santa Cruz California – the birthplace of O'Neill.
THE O'NEILL CWC SCOTLAND WILL BE SHOWN LIVE AT www.oneill.com/live or www.oneill.com/cwc
FACTS AND FIGURES:
FIVE events exploring the edges of the world over four continents.
FIVE challenging, quality waves all in extreme and not to mention cold conditions.
FIVE ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) events rugged and unique locations in the depths of nature.
WEBSITE
www.oneill.com/cwc
Including daily highlight shows, heats on demand, daily blogs and videos from Jarrad Howse and Sam Lamiroy
www.facebook.com/oneill
twitter.com/oneillcwc
LIVE WEBCAST
www.oneill.com/live
Take from transworldsurf.com
For kids who have been picked early on to do big things, there's a dangerous wasteland between being a cute, can-do-no-wrong grom and successful pro. Luke Davis is nearing the end of his grom days and is getting ready to make that next big jump.
He's just beginning the transition and is taking the mustache, the knobby knees, and the occasional pimple in stride. But he's also surfing sharper, more radical, and more powerful than ever, and it showed in his comp results last year. He made it on to the squad heading to the very elite Billabong World Junior Championship held at North Narrabeen, Australia this January. "I'm stoked to make that," says Luke.
He also made his first pro final at the Ezekiel Pro Junior held at Huntington Beach back in March. And while he's happy with his contest record, it's lacking one big thing. "I've never won Nationals," he says. "This year is going to be a big one for me."
One thing that's particularly impressive about his game is the
diversity. A common issue with surfers is a tendency to rely on one
"money turn" that gets overused, applied to every section that pops up.
After seeing five of them in a row, your eyelids start to droop in
boredom. Not Luke, though, he's got a remarkable variety in his
repertoire and seems to have a creative approach to whatever section is
in front of him. It's a rare thing to see in a young surfer and one
that ASP judges love.
But the bar is starting to rise, and to keep the at the top, Luke
will have to continue to dig deep and summon his will to climb the pro
ranks in the coming years. The fact of the matter is the cream does
rise to the top, and as long as Luke keeps progressing, keeps making
the grade, and the results keep on coming, the road is wide open for
him.
Another 16 year old O'Neill team rider won Shakedown in Saint-Sauveur, Quebec this year, but the other two positions on the podium were also filled by O'Neill riders. Mark McMorris finished 1st followed by Seb Toots 2nd and Eric Willett 3rd.
The finals format was an hour long jam with 2 judged runs called by the
riders. Mark's winning run was a backside 1080 double cork to a
frontside blunt 450 out on the flat rail following 2 minutes after by
Eric with a frontside 1080 double cork to a frontside board bagel on
the flat rail. A couple of runs later, Seb decided to throw a backside
1080 double cork and a frontside lip tail 270 out on the flat rail.
"I feel amazing! Just to be on the podium with my teammates and two of
my best friends is so awesome and even better to be on top!" said Mark
McMorris, still enthusiastic and freshly back home. The 3 riders had
awesome performances and even more if we consider the high level of
competition. "It is really not easy to win this year with all the
tricks being so technical. The rider who got the 4th place did an
awesome backside 1080 double cork followed by a 5050 backside 360 out,
but our guys pushed the limits with perfect executions and landings.",
said Max Henault the O'Neill North American snowboard Team Manager.
The 5 O'Neill riders at the event went through the finals. Didier
Godbout got 3rd out of around 80 participants for the Amateur contest
and got a direct access to the finals. "I am glad to have brought the
North American Snow team to my homeland and see them winning this!,
added Max Henault. This is a really great season for the team and I'm
happy to see that all the efforts we put into them are giving these
awesome results." Max is also coaching the O'Neill snowboard team
riders and following them through most of their training.
O'Neill has had a strong presence on the podiums lately. Seb Toots won
the FIS Canadian Championship Pro and Junior, that means with the
Shakedown, 13 podiums in a row. Also, Jason Dubois won the T4 in
Tremblant and two other O'Neill riders performed well at a local event,
the Rodeo Fest in Sutton, with Antoine Truchon winning the Big Air and
Nathan Therriault winning the Slopestyle.
For more info about the Shakedown visit www.shakedown.ca
<http://www.shakedown.ca/> and check out the photo report on
cruxco.tv.
Mishka stopped by the O’Neill office and gave an amazing surprise performance for the company. Mishka has recently partnered with O’Neill on the ECO’Neill apparel collection.
The O’Neill groms were given an in-depth coaching session from the coaching master Chris Gallagher. Gallagher broke down the basics and hammered home technique which results in solid surfing.
Nat Young and Jordy Smith search and find a playful peak in Tazzie.
March 28, 2010 - Marrawah,
Tasmania, Australia - In some of the
best conditions this competition has seen so far, Stuart Kennedy took out the
2010 O'Neill Cold Water Classic Tasmania in emphatic style with the highest
combined heat total of the event.
"I guess I just got super
confident towards the end," said Stuart who was surfing in his first ever 6
Star ASP event final. "I was really nervous out there," he said. "But I was almost
crying when I got that 9.5"
The 20 year old from Lennox Head,
Australia scored 18 points in the final heat to beat the sublime talent that is
Wiggolly Dantas, and formally announce his arrival on surfing's world stage.
"I've been training really hard
recently," said Stuart. "I guess I thought it was time to grow up and start
trying to win."
As well as doing just that and
walking away with the $20,000 prize money, Stuart also picked up the Tasmanian
Tiger trophy – a carved wooden sculpture that every surfer has been eying up
over the week.
And to top it off, Stuart now sits
in the in the lead on the Cold Water Classic Series in line for the $50,000 prize
money for the series winner.
"I am definitely going to Scotland
for the next event on the series," said Stuart. "Then after that I will have to
see where I am at."
The O'Neill Cold Water Classic
Series has a habit of producing epic conditions for the finals in every event
in every corner of the world. And here in Tasmania was no exception. "It's some
sort of surfing utopia out there," said surfer and commentator Sam Lamiroy.
Three meter swell, strong offshore
winds and right handers peeling almost all the way to the beach from way out to
sea provided the perfect platform for some of the most talented young surfers
in the world to showcase their skills.
"The conditions out there are
amazing.' said Uruguayan Marco Giorgi, who yesterday defeated Jordy Smith, and
this morning won an awesome quarterfinal against Royden Broyson before being
knocked out by eventual winner, Stuart Kennedy, in the semis.
Whilst Giorgi is off to Bali and
choosing to avoid the cold of Scotland; "I don't like all the layers and hoods
and everything," he said, fellow semi finalist and World Tour Surfer Chris
Davidson, has decided to enter to chase the cold wild conditions in the hope of
winning the $50,000 prize money. "I am not afraid of the cold," said Chris.
"It was so good to come over here
as a warm up for Bells. There were just no waves in my semi final so I was a
bit disappointed to not get to the final," he said. "I really wanted that
Tasmanian Tiger trophy. But now I am definitely going to try to enter Scotland
and see if I can go for that $50,000," he said.
The O'Neill Cold Water Classic
Series now heads up to the northernmost event in professional surfing in
Thurso, Scotland from April 13 – 19. And just off the back of one of the
coldest and longest winters in Europe there is every possibility that this will
be the coldest event in professional surfing as well.
John John Florence, Nat Young and many more! Check out the action of day 1 of the first stop of the Coldwater Classic series 2010 in Tasmania
Spectacular video footage from the second day of the first stop of the Cold Water Classic series in Tasmania 2010. Including a perfect 10 for 17 year old John John Florence.
Timmy Reyes and Roy Powers get away from the contest scene, and explore what Tasmania has to offer.
Scott Byerly recently moved into a new house in central Florida where he has been putting the lake to the test. Check out this quick clip of Byerly.
O’Neill team highlights from Days 1 and 2 of the CWC Tasmania
Defending O'Neill Cold Water Classic Tasmania champion Jordy Smith got out of his sick bed and into the wild and cold Southern Ocean waters to up the ante in this 6-Star ASP event.
But not to be intimidated, 17-year-old John John Florence then took to the water, pulled out some of the most impressive surfing this competition has seen so far, and walked away with a perfect 10.
And this is only the second day of competition at the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Tasmania.
"I couldn't really get any waves out there to start with," said John John. "Then I got this one and thought I really have to do something out there, so I did a few turns and an air and then another air." He scored a 10. "It's hard work out there though," he said. "At times I could hardly breathe."
With a cold and blocked sinuses, Jordy Smith in the first heat of the Round of 96 still managed to produce an awesome display of surfing, scoring a 9.17. Then with an air reverse from the South African, who is currently sitting second on the World Tour, he picked up an 8.0 to couple that. This is from a guy with a cold. Wait until he is back on full form.
"I feel awful right now," said Jordy. "It's all in my ears, nose and throat. I need to go to the doctor and get some antibiotics and lay low and try to get better," he said. "But it's great to come back here and try to win this event as the defending champ."
Despite the challenging conditions in the 3meter swell, there was plenty of entertainment in the surf today. And not all the excitement was limited to the afternoon's round of 96.
Coming through the round of 144 and one to keep an eye on is World Junior Champion Maxime Huscenot. Maxime may be excelling in these wild raw conditions, but it's not on his list of top five favourite places to surf in the world; "I'm from Reunion Island so I don't really like the cold water," he said. "I really want to go to all the O'Neill Cold Water Classic events, but I think maybe Scotland is too cold for me. I can't imagine putting on a thick wetsuit like that with boots and a hood and everything."
Former O'Neill Cold Water Classic Scotland winner Adam Robertson is another surfer to watch out for in this competition. The Australian excels in these conditions and today was no exception. "It's definitely a bit challenging out there. But it's good to actually have waves in these events so I am enjoying it!"
Conditions had eased slightly from yesterday allowing the competition to use its mobile format and head to the more exposed beach of Lighthouse.
That's not to say that conditions were by any means easy. This is the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series after all, and the surfers were battling through 3meter swell with strong winds, to find some of the choice waves on offer.
However, the forecast shows that things are only going to get better. And possibly a lot better at that. "It is showing that everything is gradually easing from here," said contest director, Matt Wilson. "And it's also showing some rare winds coming in so I am taking advice from locals around here because there is the possibility they could make for some favourable conditions."
Bobby Martinez and Jordy Smith hang back after the Snapper Rocks event and score a handful of days of playful surf
ANE ENDERUD CROWNED FREERIDE WORLD CHAMPION 2010!
Verbier, Switzerland – 22 March 2010 - O'Neill freeride skier, Ane Enderud has won the Freeride World Championship 2010 following a spectacular victory in the final event of the season – at the Bec des Rosses in Verbier, Switzerland.
"I just can't believe I am on top!" said Ane after her run, which brought her the World Tour victory.
It is the second year in a row that the Norwegian skier has taken the accolade. And it is made all the more remarkable by the fact that she was forced to sit out the first part of the Freeride World Tour this season with a back injury.
"I am super happy especially after the disappointing start of the season when my back problems forced me to pull out of the competition in Chamonix," said Ane.
However, determined as ever, she followed this up with two victories and a second place result.
And her victory in Verbier on the weekend was the final achievement, which secured her title. "I got a bit lost down the Bec des Rosses and changed my line choice when I skied it," said Ane. "So I was stoked to take the big cliff jump and land it clean without having inspected it beforehand!"
CONGRATULATIONS ANE ENERUD!!
At the first international surf event at Bondi Beach in over two decades, Jordy Smith joins a stellar crew to showcase the progression of aerial surfing.
CONGRATULATIONS ERIC WILLETT!!!!!!!!
O'Neill team rider Eric Willett has won Gold at the inaugural Winter X Games Europe Slopestyle, taking victory ahead of a host of international talent.
The 22-year-old American from Breckenridge, Colorado won gold with 91 points ahead of American Sage Kotsenburg and Slovenian Marko Grilc.
"It was crazy because I had the worst practice ever," said Eric. "The run I ended up doing I only thought about as I dropped into the course."
Despite the lack of planning it was an awesome run consisting of a Cab 9, Backside 7, Frontside 10 Double Cork, Backside Rodeo 5 to Switchback 9, and a double backside Rodeo.
"All the riders had runs that could knock me down. It was just cool to be up there competing with those guys like Marco Grilc and Chas Guldemond and Travis Rice.
It's been an incredible 2010 so far for the O'Neill team rider.
Eric finished second at the Winter X Games Slopestyle in Colorado at the beginning of February behind Eero Ettala.
He then followed it up with a first place finish at the 5 Star TTR event at the end of February in Livigno Italy.
However it is this first place at the Winter X Games Europe that has really stood out for the talented snowboarder.
"I got second place at the Winter X Games back home in Colorado," he said. "That was special because it was at home and it's so popular there. But this Gold at these first Europe Winter X Games is up there with that result – and probably the highlight of my season."
Bobby, Roy and Jordy blow up during a fun South Straddie session.
Timmy Reyes pulls into a big one and scores the Surfing Mag cover for May
Jordy Smith makes his first WCT final but comes up just short of the
win, while Bobby Martinez finishes equal 3rd in his first contest as an
O'Neill team rider.
Jordy blows up in Round 2 of the Quiksilver Pro posting the highest total heat score
Malia Manuel, Sage Erickson, the Partridge twins and Taira Barron enjoying in the tropics.
Avoiding the crowded Snapper Rocks line-up, Jordy Smith finds a couple drainers away from the contest mayhem.
1st Round highlights from the Snapper Rocks event. Jordy Smith, Bobby Martinez and Roy Powers getting warmed up for a solid contest run.
After a solid Hawaiian season, Florence takes on California’s premier big wave break. Grabbing a few bombs and making his making his claim as an all around waterman.
Timmy Reyes ripping apart the fruits of an El Nino winter. Reyes, taking a break from his Mexico adventure, found the time to dial into a few clean Rincon walls.
Jordy Smith gets in a couple of practice days before heading off to the Snapper contest.
A world class crew takes over the Rincon line up. With a head high swell in the water, O’Neill’s Bobby Martinez, Jordy Smith and Timmy Reyes put on a clinic on the “Queens” perfect rights. Here’s Part 1 of the Rincon Sessions.
O'Neill South Africa Team Rider Chris
Bertish Wins At Mavericks
Half Moon Bay, California, USA - After a historic day
of big wave surfing, Cape Town surfer Chris Bertish emerged victorious at the
2009/2010 Mavericks Surf Contest. Held in wild waves that many were calling
40-foot and more, Chris put his head down and paddled into a series of giant
waves to take the win from a bunch of dedicated international big wave surfers.
The total prize pool for the event was a staggering US$150,000, which was the
largest in big wave surfing to date, and Chris took home a sweet US$50,000 for
his first place prize. Chris flew 36 hours to get to the event on time,
gambling that the event would run and that the waves and conditions would be
good enough for the contest director to give the go ahead.
Bertish is part of the O'Neill South Africa surf team, and also works as the Western Cape sales agent
for O'Neill South Africa. He has been with the brand for 5 years and has played
an active role in marketing initiatives, as well as representing in big wave
events around the world. Chris is a former finalist in the Red Bull Big Wave
Africa, and his most recent results was a third place at the Nelscott Reef
Paddle In Event.
Paul Canning (PC) from O'Neill South Africa was really pleased on hearing the
news. "We at O'Neill South Africa are really stoked for Chris," said
a proud PC. "I know that this has been a dream of his for a long time, and
he has put a lot of hard work and effort into his big wave surfing over the
year. Chris is really passionate about big-wave surfing and the brand, and he
really stands for what O'Neill is all about."
The waves for the event were big, unruly monsters, some of them up to 40-foot.
There were mentions of 60-foot waves rolling through but with no one able to
catch them. Mavericks is a heavy big wave spot, and competitors all agreed that
these were some of the biggest paddle-in waves that they had ever surfed. Some
heavy wipe-outs, scary sitiuations and blood pouring from the mouth of
competitor Zach Wormhoudt after one nasty fall added to the excitement. Even
winner Bertish took his fair share of the knocks out there, getting caught by
one monster set. "I took the worst beating of my life out there,"
said Chris in a post-event interview.
The inimitable Bertish had a wild ride this year just getting to the event,
which included some self-generated fund-raising, and a few broken ribs, all of
which he overcame en route to this amazing victory and the massive first prize
cheque of US$50,000 (R385,000).
"It was an honor just to be here today and paddle out with these
guys," said an emotional Bertish on his win. "I flew 36 hours to be
here, and this has been a dream come true."
There were an estimated 50,000 spectators lining the cliffs at Half Moon Bay to
witness this unique event and his memorable victory.
Jordy Smith, Timmy Reyes, Cory Lopez and Luke Davis take advantage of the endless swells this winter.
Straight from his Costa Rican wedding, Cory Lopez spent a couple weeks in Hawaii in January. Ripping into every wave that came his way.
John Florence showing us how it’s done at his local spots.
Bobby Martinez ripping the points and beach breaks of Santa Barbara in preparation for the 2010 World Tour.
World's Premier Goofy Footer to Sport O'Neill Clothing and Wetsuits
O'Neill Clothing, the original California surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, has officially signed Bobby Martinez to an endorsement deal with both their apparel and wetsuit divisions in the U.S. Martinez, who finished the 2009 World Championship Tour (WCT) ranked eighth in the world, is widely regarded as the most sought after "free agent" in professional surfing, and recently competed the entire season without the support of a major clothing sponsor, a feat that is virtually unheard of in this day and age.
The Dream Tour veteran and Santa Barbara, Calif. native has not only been heralded as a premier goofy footer, but routinely referred to as one of the world's most well-rounded surfers and a perennial world title threat each year since 2006. That is when he claimed WCT Rookie of the Year honors and stunned the industry with a jaw-dropping victory at Teahupoo, Tahiti, arguably the most challenging wave on the professional circuit. Additionally, Martinez finished the year-end rankings in the top 10 each season of his WCT career and has multiple wins at both Teahupoo and Mundaka, Spain under his belt, making him the most successful California surfer during that time span.
"O'Neill is thrilled to welcome Bobby to our surf team," said Garth Tarlow, O'Neill's Director of Sports Marketing. "He is one of the few surfers on tour that racks up WCT victories each season and, bottom line, he's a surfer's surfer with amazing technique, tremendous power and total commitment. We look forward to watching his tenacious approach to the tour this year."
O'Neill Clothing CEO, Toby Bost, added: "In an era of evolving change in the surf industry, O'Neill is committed to building the best team of surfers in the world. We feel this year we have done just that with the addition of Bobby Martinez."
Martinez joins a prominent group of O'Neill surfers, including Jordy Smith, Timmy Reyes, Cory Lopez and Roy Powers.
"I'm more than happy to be part of the O'Neill team," Martinez said. "It's a company of surfers for surfers, and even though it has been a long wait, it's totally worth it."
Stay updated on what's going on with Martinez and Team O'Neill by joining O'Neill's mobile VIP program. Text 68398 to receive up-to-the-minute news, promotions and event info.
For more information, visit www.oneill.com.
About O'NeillO'Neill, the original California surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, was founded in 1952 when a young man named Jack O'Neill took his unstoppable passion for surfing and used it to beat Mother Nature at her own game. Pioneering the world's first neoprene wetsuit, Jack had successfully found a way to extend his surf sessions in the bone-chilling breaks of Northern California. He opened up the garage doors to his first surf shop in Santa Cruz soon after.
While many things have changed since those humble beginnings, Jack's initial vision of producing functional and innovative boardriding products continues to lie at the core of everything the company does. O'Neill's core values -- innovation in style and technology -- have seen the brand devote itself wholeheartedly to the evolution of the action sports lifestyle. From the first-ever neoprene wetsuit and surf leash, to the world's first stitchless boardshorts and range of groundbreaking wearable electronics, O'Neill's progressive spirit will always drive the company forward.
For more information, please visit www.oneill.com.
Surfing Life captured the O'Neill team as they freesurfed through Australia.
John Florence looking smooth at Da Hui Sunset Sponsor Me Open. Sunset is a tricky wave, but Florence makes it look easy on his way to a semis appearance.
Jordy Smith, Shaun Ward and Joey Head take full advantage of this past weekend’s swell.
Here's a look back at the O'Neill team from the past winter on the North Shore.
Malia Manuel and Sage Erickson put their frontside attack on display. The girls didn't disappoint once they got in the water.
Swiss snowboarder Ursina Haller took victory in a closely fought women's halfpipe final at the O'Neill Evolution in Davos.
"I didn't expect to win," said Ursina. "I was hoping for top five or top three – so I am even more stoked with the win!"
The sun came out for this first day of competition at the O'NeillEvolution 2010 to highlight the impressive halfpipe riding from thewomen. "The pipe was really good and the weather worked for us tootoday. We had a good time," said Ursina.
Her winning run of84.5 from her first run of the final, consisted of a FS 5 into a BS 5,a Stalefish, a BS air, and a FS 7 at the bottom.
"The wholevibe of the competition was not to put too much pressure on theriders," she said. "We had so much fun in the qualifications, which wasa jam session, so it felt like you were riding with your friends. Thenin the finals we had three runs too, so we just continued to have fun!"
18-year-old Slovakian snowboarder Cilka Sadar – the youngestrider in the final – was surprised but delighted with her second placefinish – after coming from fifth on her final run.
"I wasn'tnervous because I got fifth in the qualifiers and then before the finalrun I was also fifth. So I didn't really expect to do that good," saidCilka. "I am clearly better when I am not that nervous!"
Finishing off the top three was another Swiss rider, Manuela Peska, whofinished in first place in the qualification round, and with herconsistent runs ended the competition in third place.
Althoughfinishing 6th,Sarka Pancochova was the one partying the hardest at theaward ceremony– with each of the top eight finalists receiving a bottleof champagne– as she maintains her Swatch TTR World Tour lead.
Dutch rider, Cheryl Maas moved up to second place, and now the world number three is Cilka Sadar.
With womencompeting at the O'Neill Evolution for the first time in three years, itproved a decisive and important stop on the Swatch TTR World Tour.
"WhenI saw that women were back at Eovlution on the TRR page I was reallystoked," said the winner Ursina. "It's not far frommy home, and Ialways thought it was a great event – with the halfpipe and having it inthe village. Hopefully they have it again here next year – that would begreat!"
Tomorrow the halfpipe opens to the men – when the qualification round begins at 11am.
FINALS RESULTS
1. ($8,000) Ursina Haller (SUI)
2. ($6,000) Cilka Sadar (SLO)
3. ($4,000) Manuela Pesko (SUI)
4. ($4,000) Kjersti Ostgaard Buaas (NOR)
5. ($2,000) Caroline Beliard (FRA)
6. ($1,000) Sarka Pancochova (CZE)
7. ($500) Nadja Purtschert (SUI)
8. ($500) Akiko Miwa (JPN)
SCHEDULE
Monday January 4 – Training
Tuesday January 5 - Women's Halfpipe
Wednesday January 6 – Men's Halfpipe Qualifications
Thursday January 7 – Men's Slopestyle Qualifications
Friday January 8 – MEN'S HALFPIPE FINALS
Saturday January 9 – MEN'S SLOPESTYLE FINALS
Malia Manuel on where she learned how to surf, her first kiss, how she prepares for a contest and much more.
With a majority of the surf industry gone from the North Shore. O'Neill's Mark Mathews is still grabbing some good ones. Taking full advantage of the drop in the crowds. Here's a couple shots from Off the Wall courtesy of Freesurf's Tony Heff.
John John Florence takes a couple on the head before punching threw one at Log Cabins. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic.
Photo's courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic
John John Florence, Timmy Reyes, and Roy Powers early round highlights from the Pipeline Masters. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic and Tony Heff.
Mark Mathews and Timmy Reyes get a couple large ones at The Bay the day before the Eddie. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic and Tony Heff
Pipeline finally awakens. After a good month of no Pipe, the Banzai finally comes to life and the boys were on it. Cory Lopez, Timmy Reyes, Roy Powers, John John Florence, Brett Barley, and Charly Martin score some good ones. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic and Tony Heff.
Congratulations go out to Patrick Gudauskas and younger brother Tanner Gudauskas for qualifying for the 2010 ASP World Tour! It has been a hard fought year to enter the ranks of the world's elite surfers. For 23year-old Patrick Gudauskas it is a dream that has narrowly been out of grasp and now realized. In 2009 he was one surfer out of qualifying. Yet despite not qualifying he was granted an injury replacement in a couple events last year which gave him a taste of the dream tour. Having the dream within reach only fueled the San Clemente Surfer to campaign even harder which resulted in him reaching #2 on the WQS (World Qualifying Series) and a ticket to further rise up the pro ranks.
Equally impressive is younger brother Tanner Gudauskas who has been hovering in and around the qualifying position most of the year. His dramatic finish and excellent surfing at Sunset Beach during O'Neill's World Cup of Surfing clinched the deal. His quarter finals appearance was undoubtedly a great show of commitment, desire,and hard work that has paid off handsomely. The story in many ways seemed almost scripted for the Gudauskas clan. All the brothers (Dane included) faced each other alongside Mason Ho in the round of 32 where Tanner had to get through to qualify.
This was the first time in ASP history that three brothers surfed together in a heat and even more climatic was that result at Sunset Beach catapulted Tanner's entry into the 2010 World Championship Tour.
"I owe a lot to Pat and Dane because they were like having caddies in the water, and Mason [Ho] as well," said Tanner. "It was like a gentlemen's heat. I couldn't have thought of three other people I would have wanted to have a heat out there.
"We were saying before the heat that we haven't had each other all together in one heat since we were amateurs, like five or six years ago,"said Patrick. "And, to have it for Tanner to be the biggest heat of his life, he's was just been ripping so hard all day, we were just out there hooting for him because we just wanted him to get through it and go the distance.
"We didn't have a strategy going into the heat, but we wanted Tanner to get through for sure. It was definitely the priority and you don't have too many opportunities to help out someone in that situation. Surfing with him next year will be a dream come true."
The level and commitment of surfing from the G-Boys wil ladapt well on the WCT Tour
and they will be a force to be reckoned with as they continue their rise up the ladder.
Next year's ASP WCT will be exciting and will give even more reason for people to be interested in the sport with the fresh faces of Patrick and Tanner Gudauskas on tour. The next chapter to the G-Boys story is Dane's(who finished 58 on the 2009 WQS) 2010 WQS campaign to join his brothers on the Dream Tour for 2011.
6 December, 2009 : - - Sunset Beach -- You couldn't have scripted it any better. The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing reached its highest point in 35 years today in clean 10- to 15-foot surf after riding out the biggest waves in Vans Triple Crown of Surfing history.
When all was said and done, Australian Joel Parkinson was the winner, claiming $20,000 and the lead on the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing ratings presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. More importantly, he gained momentum and psychological ground on close friend Mick Fanning, with whom he will battle for the ASP World Title at Pipeline next week.
But there was even more to the story than that. Joining the Aussie mates was six-time Vans Triple Crown champion Sunny Garcia, 39, who had to finish first or second to win a wildcard into next week's Pipeline Masters and keep his dream of a seventh Vans title alive. He pulled it off as the cameras filming his life story documentary rolled. And then there was Dusty Payne, the 20-year-old from Maui who needed to do well today to become the first Maui surfer in history to qualify for the ASP Dream Tour. He did just that, finishing fourth in the final.
Sunny started out strongest in the 35-minute final, locking in the deepest barrel of the day, worth 9.47 out of 10, that put his rivals on red alert. Fanning and 'Parko' were having their own preliminary world title match up on the West Bowl. The two traded off small barrel rides for average scores, as Garcia stayed busy but couldn't find a backup for his major score.
Parkinson finally managed to post a 7.0 with a couple of smooth on-rail carves and with only two minutes remaining scored a 6.17 for a late barrel through the inside. Garcia scratched as the Nixon timer counted down, ultimately failing to find the mere 3.7 score he needed for a win.
Parkinson joins Hawaii's legendary Michael Ho as the only three-time winners of the O'Neill World Cup at Sunset Beach. If he can win this year's Vans Triple Crown of Surfing title, he can claim a $50,000 bonus and a $10,000 custom Nixon watch. But Garcia is hot on his heels - only 31 points, or less than a place, behind.
"I couldn't hear the score, but I heard the crowd," said Parkinson of Sunny's 9.47 ride. "I knew I had my work cut out for me... With two minutes to go (Sunny) needed a three and I felt like telling him 'you just gotta go anything... It's a little sweeter because I'm coming off a bit of an injury. Right now it feels really good because I'm back on the podium and back winning going into the biggest battle of my career. I love the Triple Crown."
While the commentators, crowd and media drooled over the Parko/Fanning matchup today and prelude to the world title, Mick was quick to deflect the pressure to Joel. "I'm in the lead and all the pressure is on Joel now," said Fanning. "He has to get third (at Pipe). There's no room for error for him. I'm just concentrating on myself and getting through as many heats as possible and making it as hard as possible for him.
"I just wanted to get some heats under my belt. It's getting back in that rhythm of doing heats again and everything feels real good. I'm excited."
In classic Garcia style, none of his brilliance today ended up being good enough without taking the winner's cup home. "It's not how it starts, it's how it ends," said Garcia. "It feels good, but I'm still bummed that I lost. I came this far and I wanted to win. I started off with a 9.4 and to need a three at the end of the heat and not get it was a little frustrating. Hopefully, they'll run the Eddie tomorrow, I'll go get some big waves and wash out this loss and get ready for Pipe."
Known for being a last-minute guy, Payne wait until the last event of the year to qualify. "It's a dream to make the WCT," said Dusty Payne. "I'm over the moon right now. It hasn't sunk in yet and I don't think it will until the tour starts next year."
RESULTS:
Final:
1. Joel Parkinson (AUS) - $20,000 - 3,500 points
2. Sunny Garcia (HAW) - $10,000 - 3,063 points
3. Mick Fanning (AUS) - $5,100 - 2,625 points
4. Dusty Payne (HAW) - $4,900 - 2,494 points
Semi-Finals:
1: Mick Fanning (AUS), Dusty Payne (HAW), Torrey Meister (HAW), Daniel Ross (AUS)
2: Joel Parkinson (AUS), Sunny Garcia (HAW), Mason Ho (HAW), Taylor Knox (USA)
Quarter Finals:
1: Daniel Ross (AUS), Dusty Payne (HAW), Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), Jihad Khodr (BRA)
2: Mick Fanning (AUS), Torrey Meister (HAW), Pancho Sullivan (HAW), Glen Hall (IRL)
3: Taylor Knox (USA), Joel Parkinson (AUS), Alejo Muniz (BRA), Tanner Gudauskas (USA)
4: Mason Ho (HAW), Sunny Garcia (HAW), Bede Durbidge (AUS), Kai Otton (AUS)
Jordy, Roy, Nat, and Malia get a session in at Gums. With a massive swell projected for Monday, this was the last session at Gums for at least a week. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Tony Heff.
It's been a tough week for surf. Perfect conditions with no waves, then huge surf with bad weather. Here's a quick look at the boys getting a quick dip at Rockies
Largest Waves Ever Contested at Vans Triple Crown of Surfing
SUNSET BEACH, HI - Thurs. Dec.3, 2009 - The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing can lay claim to running in the largest surf ever contested in the 27-year history of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. Waves were at the outside limit of contestable, topping out this morning at 20 to 25 feet and often closing out totally across the bay. But with a forecast for even larger swells on the way, it was full steam ahead. Organizers anticipate that the final day of competition will be held tomorrow. With very little beach remaining, there is serious concern that all remaining sand will be lost to Saturday's extra-large swell.
Six-time Vans Triple Crown champion and two-time O'Neill World Cup champion Sunny Garcia (HI) was about the only surfer smiling when he stepped onto what remained of the beach. He advanced to the quarter finals and is in good shape to have a shot at his 7th Triple Crown title, which boasts an added $50,000 bonus this winter.
They say be careful what you wish for, you know?" said Sunny. "I wanted big waves and we got big waves. It's almost too big. You go out there and hope you get two waves.
"Some of the sets are kind of big and go into the channel. The takeoff seems like it's going to be a big wave and it turns into a 4-foot mush burger, so wave selection is crucial today. I'm having fun watching some of the kids sit on the shoulder and they didn't want any part of it. That's what I wanted to see!
"Physically, I've been doing four hours of cardio before anyone gets up, so this is fun. I'm having a good time. I'm not using that much energy and as long as you don't get caught inside you're pretty good.
"I rode an 8'4" and it's easier to sneak in and sneak out, and just in case you gotta get out of the way it's easier to paddle."
Aussie Adam Melling stepped up his game to post the highest heat score of the day and the second highest heat score of the event: 16.5 out of a possible 20. Melling looked sharp and managed to crank off some critical vertical turns, proving he'll be a threat next year on the 2010 World Championship Tour.
"I could just hear a few scores, heard I got a good first one and just tried to back it up," said Melling. "It was hard out there. I stayed inside, it was a bit cleaner. I took a 7'0" board, a bit thicker and wider, but you need it to get into them out there. I didn't bring anything bigger."
Although he posted the highest two-wave total of the day, Melling failed to advance out of his Round of 32 heat and was eliminated by fellow Australians Kai Otton and Joel Parkinson.
The Gudauskas brothers had their own campaign going today and all three of them found themselves in the same heat come the round of 32. This was the first time in ASP history that three brothers surfed together in a heat. Patrick has qualified for the elite Dream Tour in 2010, and twin brother Dane is out of WCT contention this year. Youngest Gudauskas brother, Tanner, won the round of 32 heat with North Shore native Mason Ho advancing behind in second. Today's result at Sunset Beach guarantees Tanner entry into the 2010 World Championship Tour.
"I owe a lot to Pat and Dane [Gudauskas] because they were like having caddies in the water, and Mason [Ho] as well," said Tanner. "It was like a gentlemen's heat. I couldn't have thought of three other people I would have wanted to have a heat out there.
"I think Pat and Dane were testing me and making sure I was pushing them so that they didn't just give it to me. I would have done the same for them. I actually had an opportunity last year with Pat and he was in the same spot and I tried to help him out, but this year I had both of them. It was epic."
Patrick, who was eliminated in the Round of 32 with twin brother Dane, said it was a special heat for the brothers.
"We were saying before the heat that we haven't had each other all together in one heat since we were amateurs, like five or six years ago," said Patrick. "And, to have it for Tanner to be the biggest heat of his life, he's just been ripping so hard all day, we were just out there hooting for him because we just wanted him to get through it and go the distance.
"We didn't have a strategy going into the heat, but we wanted Tanner to get through for sure. It was definitely the priority and you don't have too many opportunities to help out someone in that situation. Surfing with him next year will be a dream come true."
Brazilians Alejo Muniz and Jihad Khodr had noteworthy performances today. Khodr posted the highest scoring ride of the day, a 9.67 out of a possible 10 points. The high score came in the form of a big, gaping barrel and followed it up with a giant carve on a 10-foot wave. In addition, Muniz won the Nose Guard Rookie of the Year by making the round of 32.
For all of the LIVE action log on to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com. Find out the call for the day, each day, as soon as it's made by Director Randy Rarick by signing up for mobile text alerts at triplecrownofsurfing.com. When competition resumes, all the action will be broadcast live on the web at triplecrownofsurfing.com, as well as on Hawaii television on Oceanic channel 250.
Making the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink possible: Reef, O'Neill, Billabong, Gidget Worldwide, Nixon, Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaiian Airlines, JN Automotive Group, Surfing Magazine, Surfline.com, FUEL TV, The Honolulu Advertiser, Hawaiian Springs Water, Road Runner, Climb On! chemical-free skincare, and the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). The Series is proud to announce that it is working with local company Tr3ees to embark upon a greener, more sustainable future.
RESULTS:
Round of 64:
H9: Joel Parkinson (AUS), Mason Ho (HAW), John John Florence (HAW), Pablo Paulino (BRA)
H10: Adam Melling (AUS), Patrick Gudauskas (USA), Drew Courtney (AUS), Phillip MacDonald (AUS)
H11: Tanner Gudauskas (USA), Dion Atkinson (AUS), Jordy Smith (ZAF), Wiggolly Dantas (BRA)
H12: Dane Gudauskas (USA), Kai Otton (AUS), Blake Thornton (AUS), Gabe Kling (USA)
H13: Taylor Knox (USA), Austin Ware (USA), Dean Morrison (AUS), Nathan Yeomans (USA)
H14: Adrian Buchan (USA), Alejo Muniz (BRA), Rodrigo Dornelles (BRA), Flynn Novak (HAW)
H15: Brett Simpson (USA), Aritz Aranburu (EUK), Nic Muscroft (AUS), Michael Picon (EUK)
H16: Bede Durbidge (AUS), Sunny Garcia (HAW), Sebastien Zietz (HAW), Granger Larsen (HAW)
Round of 32:
H1: Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), Glenn Hall (IRL), Bernardo Miranda (BRA), William Cardoso (BRA)
H2: Jihad Khodr (BRA), Torrey Meister (HAW), Luke Munro (AUS), Nat Young (USA)
H3: Mick Fanning (AUS), Daniel Ross (AUS), Chris Davidson (AUS), Shane Beschen (HAW)
H4: Pancho Sullivan (HAW), Dusty Payne (HAW), Joan Duru (FRA), Neco Padaratz (BRA)
H5: Joel Parkinson (AUS), Kai Otton (AUS), Adam Melling (AUS), Dion Atkinson (AUS)
H6: Tanner Gudauskas (USA), Mason Ho (HAW), Dane Gudauskas (USA), Patrick Gudauskas (USA)
H7: Sunny Garcia (HAW), Taylor Knox (USA), Adrian Buchan (AUS), Aritz Aranburu (EUK)
Cory Lopez, John John Florence and Kieran Horn get a couple at Off The Wall. Photos courtesy of Freesurf's Mike Latronic and Eric Baseman.
Sunset Beach, HI - (Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009) - World title campaigner Mick Fanning (Australia) clocked in at the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing today, hitting the water at Sunset Beach for his debut heat of the 2009 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. He looked sharp, highly motivated and ready to get to work as he advanced behind Sunset Beach's favorite son, Pancho Sullivan. Even though this event has no bearing on his world title campaign, it's a critical warm-up to next week's ultimate, season-ending battle at Pipeline.
Fanning's entrance came during the last heat of an intense day that was full of action, upsets, and super clean waves in the six-foot range. Those spectators who stuck it out were rewarded - not only by Fanning's highly anticipated flair, but by Pancho's radical, full-body, on-rail attack that was fueled by his determination to lay claim to his home break.
"I was excited!" said Fanning, 28, after the heat. "I haven't had a heat for a while so it was good. Just stoked to be out there with Pancho. He's one of my favorite guys out at Sunset. Stoked to get through."
Pancho seemed relieved to get his opening heat behind him and notch up an early win.
"These dieing swells that move over to the point are really tricky," said Pancho, 36. "I wasn't really finding a rhythm in the beginning of the heat. I saw the other guys getting waves and I just wanted to get to my feet and join the fun."
Nat Young (Santa Cruz), 18, continued to win over an adoring Hawaiian crowd, taking it a step further today in posting the highest heat total of the event to date: 17.33 points out of a possible 20. His backhand blitz was electrifying and earned him individual wave scores of 9.33 and 8.0. While he was looking more like a seasoned Sunset veteran than the greenhorn grom he his, he still managed to downplay his score-topping performance.
"Ian Cairns has been giving me some pointers and telling me which waves are good," said Young. "The guys I'm staying with, Kieren Horn and Jarrad Howse, I've gone out surfing with them and they showed me where to sit.
"I'm just seeing how many heats I can make and having fun with it. Sunset is a fun wave, but I definitely have a lot to learn.
"I kind of had an idea of where to go. I didn't feel that lost out there. I knew which waves to go on: the ones that looked like a peak, not a huge wall on it."
The downplay continued with his recollection of his 9.33:
"It was a good wave and I did three turns and didn't fall. I didn't think it was gonna be a 9, but I was stoked when I heard it was."
While there was plenty of good news to go around, it didn't find its way to Joel Centeio - winner of the first event of the series last week at Haleiwa and Vans Triple Crown of Surfing series points leader until today. After a blistering run of nine consecutive heat wins in the Vans Triple Crown, it all came crashing down in the second-last heat of the day when he was eliminated in third place behind Neco Padaratz (Brazil) and Daniel Ross (Australia).
In losing, Centeio has opened up the door for Sunny Garcia to make a push for his seventh Vans Triple Crown title. Garcia, 39, will have to step it up again in his next heat, drawn against 2007 Vans Triple Crown champion Bede Durbidge (Australia), and red hot Hawaiians Granger Larsen (Maui) and Sebastian Zietz (Kauai).
The winner of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing will receive $20,000. The Vans Triple Crown Triple Threat also offers a $50,000 bonus for the most consistent performer across all three events. Hawaii's Joel Centeio currently leads the series ratings after his win at Haleiwa and his successful run so far here at Sunset Beach.
For all of the LIVE action log on to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com. Find out the call for the day, each day, as soon as it's made by Director Randy Rarick by signing up for mobile text alerts at triplecrownofsurfing.com. When competition resumes, all the action will be broadcast live on the web at triplecrownofsurfing.com, as well as on Hawaii television on Oceanic channel 250.
Making the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink possible: Reef, O'Neill, Billabong, Gidget Worldwide, Nixon, Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaiian Airlines, JN Automotive Group, Surfing Magazine, Surfline.com, FUEL TV, The Honolulu Advertiser, Hawaiian Springs Water, Road Runner, Climb On! chemical-free skincare, and the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). The Series is proud to announce that it is working with local company Tr3ees to embark upon a greener, more sustainable future.
Jodi Wilmott - (808) 258-8533
RESULTS:
Round of 96:
H9: Mason Ho (HAW), Phillip MacDonald (AUS), Gony Zubizarreta (ESP), Myles Padaca (HAW)
H10: Drew Courtney (AUS), Pablo Paulino (BRA), Adam Robertson (AUS), TJ Barron (HAW)
H11: Wiggolly Dantas (BRA), Dane Gudauskas (USA), Ben Dunn (AUS), Dustin Cuizon (HAW)
H12: Gabel Kling (USA), Tanner Gudauskas (USA), Lincoln Taylor (AUS), Cory Lopez (USA)
H13: Nathan Yeomans (USA), Alejo Muniz (BRA), Jay Thompson (AUS), Nathan Hedge (AUS)
H14: Flynn Novak (HAW), Dean Morrison (AUS), Ruben Gonzalez (PRT), Nathan Carroll (HAW)
H15: Nic Muscroft (AUS), Sunny Garcia (HAW), Dylan Melamed (HAW), Yadin Nicol (AUS)
H16: Granger Larsen (HAW), Aritz Aranburu (EUK), Leigh Sedley (AUS), Solomon Ortiz (HAW)
Round of 64:
H1: William Cardoso (BRA), Torrey Meister (HAW), Josh Kerr (AUS), CJ Hobgood (USA)
H2: Bernardo Miranda (BRA), Jihad Khodr (BRA), Matt Wilkinson (AUS), Chris Ward (USA)
H3: Luke Munro (AUS), Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), Travis Logie (ZAF), Tim Reyes (USA)
H4: Nat Young (USA), Glen Hall (IRL), Damein Fahrenfort (ZAF), Damien Hobgood (USA)
H5: Shane Beschen (USA), Dusty Payne (HAW), Tom Whitaker (AUS), Marco Giorgi (BRA)
H6: Chris Davidson (AUS), Joan Duru (FRA), Andy Irons (HAW), Fredrick Patacchia (HAW)
H7: Neco Padaratz (BRA), Daniel Ross (AUS), Joel Centeio (HAW), Jadson Andre (BRA)
H8: Pancho Sullivan (HAW), Mick Fanning (AUS), Renato Galvao (BRA), Jarrad Howse (AUS)
Team O'Neill footage from North Shore, Oahu.
Sunset Beach, Oahu, HI (Sun. Nov. 29, 2009) - It was tough to spot Santa Cruz teenager Nat Young, 17, in the lineup at Sunset Beach today. Out in the water for round two of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing, Young's windblown shock of white hair, white surfboard and white contest jersey blended perfectly with the white-caps and spray that ruled the day. It was a tough morning for even the most seasoned Sunset competitors as the eight- to ten-foot surf rapidly declined and competition was halted after only eight heats. But Young was full of smiles, braces gleaming, after a self-confessed clueless performance that saw him advance to round three behind local charger Kekoa Bacalso.
It's not that his surfing doesn't measure up; Young is a former NSSA champion and won the 2008 O'Neill Coldwater Classic back home at Santa Cruz. He just has zero experience at Sunset Beach, which the champions will tell you is a tough venue to master. Add the world's top-ranked surfers and the prestige of the $1,000,000 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, and it's obviously an overwhelming scene for a rookie.
"I'm so stoked, it was pretty tough out there," said Young, after his heat. "I don't know the wave at all. I just kind of caught a bunch of waves and it worked out.
"It's definitely hard to find (the waves), especially not being from here and not surfing out there. I have no idea which waves are good. It was a coin toss and I'm stoked I made it.
"The waves here are definitely bigger and trickier than home."
Young got his start in the event with an O'Neill wildcard and plans to use the opportunity for some uncrowded learning time at a venue that can make and break careers.
"O'Neill gave me a wildcard in this and I'm happy I could get in. I did Haleiwa and I did bad, but it's been fun. Normally I would be here just free surfing, but to be able to do contests and free surf is pretty nice."
The top-scoring surfer today was South African Damien Fahrenfort, whose sure-footed, powerful attack surged out of reach of his seasoned rivals Luke Munro (Australia), Liam McNamara (Hawaii), Kieren Horn (CA).
Others to advance today included Andy Irons (Hawaii); Joel Centeio (Hawaii) - who won his ninth consecutive heat of the 2009 Vans Triple Crown series today; Marco Giorgio (Uruguay); and Jihad Khodr (Brazil).
The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing is the second jewel of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. The winner of this event will receive $20,000. The Vans Triple Crown series title, awarded to the most consistent performer across all three events, carries a $50,000 bonus.
The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing will likely continue at 8am tomorrow with a new swell forecast to fill in. For all of the LIVE action log on to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com. Find out the call for the day, each day, as soon as it's made by Director Randy Rarick by signing up for mobile text alerts at triplecrownofsurfing.com. When competition resumes, all the action will be broadcast live on the web at triplecrownofsurfing.com, as well as on Hawaii television on Oceanic channel 250.
Making the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink possible: Reef, O'Neill, Billabong, Gidget Worldwide, Nixon, Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaiian Airlines, JN Automotive Group, Surfing Magazine, Surfline.com, FUEL TV, The Honolulu Advertiser, Hawaiian Springs Water, Road Runner, Climb On! chemical-free skincare, and the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). The Series is proud to announce that it is working with local company Tr3ees to embark upon a greener, more sustainable future.
O'NEILL WORLD CUP OF SURFING RESULTS:
O'Neill World Cup of Surfing
ROUND of 96 (1st & 2nd advance, only 8 of the round's 16 heats were surfed.)
H1: Josh Kerr (AUS), Bernardo Miranda (BRA), Romain Cloitre (FRA), Ola Eleogram (HAW)
H2: Jihad Khodr (BRA), Torrey Meister (HAW), Gavin Gillette (HAW), Leonardo Neves (BRA)
H3: Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), Nat Young (USA), Blake Wilson (AUS), Rudy Palboom (ZAF)
H4: Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF), Luke Munro (AUS), Liam McNamara (HAW), Kieren Horn (USA)
H5: Marco Giorgi (BRA), Andy Irons (HAW), Marco Polo (BRA), Eric Geiselman (USA)
H6: Chris Davidson (USA), Shane Beschen (HAW), Royden Bryson (ZAF), Brad Ettinger (USA)
H7: Joel Centeio (HAW), Jarrad Howse (AUS), Roy Powers (HAW), Evan Valiere (HAW)
H8: Renato Galvao (BRA), Neco Padaratz (BRA), Nathaniel Curran (USA), Brandon Jackson (ZAF)
Sunset Beach, Oahu, HI (Sat. Nov. 28, 2009) - Sunset Beach bounced to life right on Sunny Garcia's cue today, delivering punchy eight-foot-plus surf for the completion of the first round of the men's O'Neill World Cup of Surfing. With a shot at his seventh Vans Triple Crown of Surfing series title, Garcia, 39, is hoping to replicate his recent performance at Haleiwa, where he blazed out of the opening round gates and took it all the way to the quarter finals. He made solid headway today, posting the highest heat score of the opening round: 15 points out of a possible 20.
Garcia's power was on par with that of the new swell, looking comfortable and focused in the expansive lineup that wreaked havoc with many less-seasoned competitors. Garcia caught a total of four rides during the 30-minute heat, with top scores of 9.5 and 5.5, each out of a possible 10. He looked every bit of the surfer he was 15 years ago when he won this event for the first time in 1994, then again in 2000.
Dane Gudauskas (CA) and Cory Lopez (FL) led the US Mainland charge today, both advancing out of the same four-man heat ahead of Luke Campbell (Australia) and Jason Shibata (HI). Dane broke his surfboard during the heat, but still made it through on backup equipment. He will draw younger brother Tanner in the next round, along with Gabe Kling (FL), and Lincoln Taylor (Australia).
"I'm just so stoked to be here," said the younger Gudauskas, 24. "This is my favorite wave in the world, so I'm stoked to get out there, have a good first heat and make it to the next round.
"I was taking wipeouts. I broke my board and got kind of annihilated. My brother was sitting in the channel, coaxing me to go hard and had my spare [board].
"It's a wild day. When there's nothing there's nothing. But when the waves come it's pumping. It's kind of bizarre."
Surprise eliminations today included Tahiti's Alain Riou, who featured in the final at Haleiwa on Monday but effectively lost all hope of reaching the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) 2010 Dream Tour with his loss today. He is also now out of the running for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink title race. After reaching the final at Haleiwa, Riou was looking for at least a semi-final finish here to qualify for the Dream Tour.
Others ousted prematurely were Shaun Gossman (Australia), Hodei Collazi (EUK), Yuri Sodre (Brazil), who was nursing a dislocated toe, and Australian big-wave rider Mark Mathews.
The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing is the second jewel of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. The winner of this event will receive $20,000. The Vans Triple Crown series title, awarded to the most consistent performer across all three events, carries a $50,000 bonus.
The O'Neill World Cup of Surfing will likely continue at 8am tomorrow with the present swell forecast to fill in. For all of the LIVE action log on to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com. Find out the call for the day, each day, as soon as it's made by Director Randy Rarick by signing up for mobile text alerts at triplecrownofsurfing.com. When competition resumes, all the action will be broadcast live on the web at triplecrownofsurfing.com, as well as on Hawaii television on Oceanic channel 250.
Making the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing presented by Rockstar Energy Drink possible: Reef, O'Neill, Billabong, Gidget Worldwide, Nixon, Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaiian Airlines, JN Automotive Group, Surfing Magazine, Surfline.com, FUEL TV, The Honolulu Advertiser, Hawaiian Springs Water, Road Runner, Climb On! chemical-free skincare, and the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP). The Series is proud to announce that it is working with local company Tr3ees to embark upon a greener, more sustainable future.
O'NEILL WORLD CUP OF SURFING RESULTS:
O'Neill World Cup of Surfing
ROUND of 128 (1st & 2nd advance)
H1: Ola Eleogram (HI), Gavin Gillette (HI), Hizunome Bettero (BRA), Brent Dorrington (AUS)
H2: Torrey Meister (HI), Bernardo Miranda (BRA), Derek Ho (HI), Paulo Mauro (BRA)
H3: Rudy Palboom (ZAF), Kieran Horn (CA), Heat Joske (AUS), Christophe Allary (REU)
H4: Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF), Blake Wilson (AUS), Brian Toth (PRI), Kevin Sullivan (HI)
H5: Marco Giorgi (URY), Brad Ettinger (USA), Hank Gaskell (HI), Masatoshi Ohno (JPN)
H6: Shane Beschen (HI), Eric Geiselman (USA), Jack Perry (AUS), Jay Davies (AUS)
H7: Joel Centeio (HI), Neco Padaratz (BRA), Izuki Tanaka (JPN), Danny Fuller (HI)
H8: Renato Galva(BRA), Evan Valiere (HI), Raoni Monteiro (BRA), Kiron Jabour (HI)
H9: Mason Ho (HI), Adam Robertson (AUS), Jesse Merle-Jones (HI), Marcio Farney (BRA)
H10: T.J. Barron (HI), Myles Padaca (HI), Andre Silva (BRA), Shaun Gossman (AUS)
H11: Dane Gudauskas (USA), Cory Lopez (USA), Luke Campbell (AUS), Jason Shibata (HI)
H12: Lincoln Taylor (AUS), Dustin Cuizon (HI), Hodei Collazo (EUK), Charlie Brown (BRA)
H13: Alejo Muniz (BRA), Ruben Gonzalez (PRT), Makuakai Rothman (HI), Hugo Savalli (REU)
H14: Nathan Carroll (HI), Nathan Hedge (AUS), Mark Matthews (AUS), Kai Barger (HAW)
H15: Sunny Garcia (HI), Granger Larsen (HI), Kamalei Alexander (HI), Alain Riou (PYF)
H16: Solomon Ortiz (HI), Dylan Melamed (HI), Jean Da Silva (BRA), Yuri Sodre (BRA)
This is part of the daily routine on the North Shore...checking the different line ups. The first image is Cory Lopez, brother Shea, and Peter Medina assessing the conditions at Pipe from the O'Neill house. The second image is Timmy Reyes checking the World Cup sunset site. Photos courtesy of Sam Olson
Jordy Smith and Timmy Reyes find some open ones at Log Cabins. With most of the North Shore a mess, Log Cabin had some gems on offer. Jordy and Timmy sneak in a couple during the early morning session. Photos courtesy of Sam Olson
Warmond, The Netherlands – November 26, 2009 - Dutch kiteboarder, Kevin Langeree yesterday became PKRA World Champion for the first time ever.
“It’s so hard to believe,” said Kevin. “This season has been amazing. I was so focused on winning the world title, and I did it!” he said.
Dutch kiteboarder, Kevin Langeree yesterday became PKRA World Champion for the first time ever.
"It's so hard to believe,"said Kevin. "This season has been amazing. I was so focused on winning the world title, and I did it!" he said.
The 21 year old O'Neill kiteboarder from Noordwijk in the Netherlands had three years previously been runner up to British kiteboarder Aaron Hadlow. And once again it came down to the final event on the tour – the Teri Kite Pro in the warm waters of New Caledonia.
Kevin came second in this final PKRA stop on the World Tour, however it was enough to push long term rival Aaron Hadlow off the top of the rankings and take the World Title.
The young talented kiteboarder isn't going to take it easy from here however. "I'm going to enjoy this victory," said Kevin. "But I will keep training hard. I want to be ready for next year's tour."
O'Neill team rider Stefan Gimpl celebrated his 30th birthday in winning style last weekend by claiming a memorable first place at the LG Freeze Big Air World Cup event in London.
The Austrian freestyle stomp master triumphed over a stacked field of more than 50 international riders, putting on an incredible aerial display for the 15,000 amped spectators packed in together besides the city's iconic Battersea PowerStation.
The rider from Leogang – crowned 2009 FIS Big Air World Champion earlier this year –edged out Switzerland's Gian-Luca Cavigelli and Slovenia's
Domen Bizjak to claim his first Big Air victory of the current season.
The standard of riding was mind-blowing throughout the 3-day event, with all manner of tricks being thrown down by the super motivated pro riders. Once again though, Gimpl reminded everyone that class is permanent, stomping "the best frontside 1080 of my life" in the finals to claim top spot.
Speaking after the event, Gimpl said: "To win an event of this size and importance is a dream come true for me, and to do it on my birthday is just the icing on the cake. It's a good sign for the rest of the coming season, but right now I'm just going celebrate my birthday and this win – it's a great moment!"
Stay tuned for more Big Air madness courtesy of Stefan Gimpl later thisseason as he looks to retain his FIS Big Air World Championship title.And if early season form is anything to go by, it would take a verybrave person to bet against him doing just that.
October 13 2009, Berlin, Germany - Sixteen year old Seb Toots won the freestyle.berlin on the weekend with a perfect backside 1080 double cork – showing just why he is currently TTR World Tour number one.
"I am super excited to win," said Seb "There were a lot of good ridersthere so it means a lot to me. It's like a dream to come out first."
The Canadian beat an impressive lineup at the big air contest in its first year in Berlin, taking victory over Eero Ettala and current TTR World Champ Peetu Piiroinen with his backside 1080 double cork. And he made it look easy. "I think the hard part about a backside 1080 double cork is learning it," said Seb. "It's always scary to try the first time, but once you can control it, it's a great trick."
His first place comes right after finishing second at the freestyle.ch a few weeks ago.
"Peetu and Eero are really good riders and you never know what they are gonna throw in the contest," said Seb. "Eero got first place at freestyle.ch, and I got second so I am really stoked to be first this time with this good line up of riders."
CONGRATUALTIONS SEB!
Seb Toots has continued his onslaught of the season – coming second at the freestyle.ch in Zurich over the weekend.
The 16-year-old Canadian snowboarder who currently sits top of the TTR World Snowboard Tour ranking list, pulled off a Rodeo 5 and Back 1000 Double Cork to come second behind Eero Ettala.
And this is only the start of the season. Expect big things this year from the young star.
Mark Mathews inside Ours with a hand-held video camera.
Awesome footage!
CONGRATULATIONS TO KEVIN LANGEREE!
The Dutch kiteboarding sensation Kevin Langeree has won the 4th stop of the PKRA World Tour
HERE'S A LITTLE UPDATE FROM THE WINNER:
"I've been busy celebrating my 1st place here in Germany! It's already the 4th time that the PKRA is held here in St. peter Ording and I was able to win it 3 times in a row!!
We had the perfect conditions on the first day of wind, I was out on my 6m the whole day. It was a classic NorthSea storm and I'm really used to those conditions cause they are the same as at home. That really gave me an advantage to the other riders.
On the day of the singles it was really my day I landed all my trick in every heat I rode so before I knew it I was in the final again! In the final I had to go up against Aaron. Just before the final stared the wind dropped a bit so I toke a bigger size kite and that was a good decision. I landed a double front mobe, double back spin pass, doublesbent pass, a one handed kgb, a switch KGB and some other powered HP's.That was good enough to win the singles.
The next day it looked like it would be the last day with wind so we tried to finish of the doubles. Youri had a 3rd place in the singles in the doubles he was riding really well and kicked Aaron of his 2ndplace. That means that I had to go up against Youri in the finale ofthe doubles. An all Dutch final!
In the beginning it went pretty well but during the end of the heat we both started crashing a bit. In the last minute I still landed a front mobe to blind that really helped me to win that heat!!!!
The next event is in Brazil in October so we have a really long break to train!"
After four years out of competition in his native Holland, wakeboarder Duncan Zuur made quite a comeback on Saturday.
Known for his stunts wakeboarding through the Amsterdam canals and through the streets of Venice, Duncan took out the Dutch National Championships in Amsterdam on Saturday.
He will now continue to train as he sets his sights on the European Championships.
Sunday July 5, 2009 – Just hours after celebrating both his 21st birthday and American Independence Day (both on 4 July), Tanner Gudauskas (California, USA) celebrated the biggest victory of his professional surfing career, taking out the ASP WQS 6-Star Mr Price Pro Ballito, today.
Gudauskas defeated Australian James Taipan Wood (Aus) rocketing to World No. 6 on the ASP World Qualifying Series and pocketing R159 000 (US$20 000) as well as 2500 ASP WQS ratings points.
"I just can't believe it, this is a personal best for me!" said Gudauskas. "Every night this week I've been going to bed dreaming about winning this contest and putting myself up there where Pat (Tanner's brother and WQS No. 10 Patrick Gudauskas) was at, and it came through today so I'm fired up!"
Attacking the 30-minute final with unprecedented determination, Gudauskas rode every lump of swell, snatching an early heat lead with a 6.83 (out of 10.00) for some clean backhand turns, riding out in an explosion of whitewater off his final maneuver.
While his opponent Wood opted to play the patience game catching his first wave at the 11 minute mark, Gudauskas projected fast out of his top turns, maintaining speed and power in the wind affected waves to score a 6.67 and further extend his lead over the Australian, who was left looking for a 7.67.
"I just got into this mindset that when the surf got worse I was going to get better and as the tide came up and it got less consistent, I just got more fired up and more pissed off," said Gudauskas. "It's crazy because I can hardly remember half of it now but my priority exchange worked out and it all came together and I'm just super fired up!"
Cloaked in stars and stripes, of the American flag, an emotional Gudauskas was chaired up the beach by his older brother Dane and quarterfinalist Dylan Graves (Pri), surrounded by a sea of adoring fans and media crew all wanting a piece of the newly crowned champ.
"When I came out of the water and saw my brothers and some of my friends all standing on the beach cheering for me I was almost in tears," said Gudauskas. "We have a really strong crew from America right now and we're all pushing as hard as we can to bust down the door and make the ASP World Tour and I think this year could be the year."
Guduaskas is now the highest rated American surfer on the WQS tour, surpassing both WQS No. 7 Brett Simpson and his older brother WQS No. 10 Patrick Gudauskas.
THE MOST NORTHERN, THE MOST SOUTHERN, THE WILDEST, THE COLDEST & THE MOST CLASSIC SURF CONTEST ON THE PLANET
Blake Thornton, the 24 year old from Maroubra, Sydney, surfed the perfect final in epic Cape Town conditions to knock out local favourite Royden Bryson, and take victory at the O'Neill Cold Water Classic South Africa.
"I am so excited to win this," said Blake. "Royden fell on his wave at the end. I think maybe the cold was getting to us," he said shivering in his wetsuit. "I am sorry for him, but so glad I won."
In victory, Blake lifted the CWC South Africa trophy – a replica shark's jaw – high above his head on the shoreline at Kalk Bay.
"Thankfully this is a fake jaw," said Blake. "Hopefully I won't see any real ones. There was actually a seal swimming around out there with us in the final," he said. "Everyone knows that sharks love seals, but actually in a heat you're only worried about what's going on in the heat."
After a lay day yesterday which saw everyone hiding away from the storms, conditions came together perfectly on the eastern side of the Cape with offshore winds and a solid six-foot swell.
The barreling left hand reef break of Kalk Bay provided the dream final day for the first professional surfing event in Cape Town in 21 years - the 4 Star ASP WQS O'Neill CWC South Africa.
And local Cape Town surfer Royden Bryson almost provided the dream local ending. "From the water I could hear everyone supporting me – shouting and honking their horns on the beach," said Royden. "I don't think I've ever had support like that in a contest. It was amazing."
"I wish I hadn't folded on that last wave, but what can you do," he said. "I will kick myself for about half an hour and then it will be good."
Although eager to win the trophy, Royden hadn't been too keen on the idea of displaying the shark's jaw. "There would be no way I would want to see that thing before I went in for a surf!" he said.
The anticipation of Kalk Bay working for the final day had been building all week, so when contest director Matt Wilson made the call to start at 11am with man-on-man heats, the surfers were ready.
"It was a good decision to have man-on-man heats out there," said semi-finalist Jarrad Howse. "There would have been too much hassling if you had four man heats."
Jarrad was one of the standout performances of the day – actually looking like he was having a lot of fun as he pulled into barrel after barrel on his backhand.
The shock of the day was the early departure of World Tour star and event ambassador, Jordy Smith – knocked out by Glenn Hall in the round of 16.
And the wave of the day came from the eventual winner who pulled into an awesome barrel to score the highest wave score of the competition – a 9.6.
"My first heat was a shocker, I just wasn't understanding the wave," said Blake. "I think in the next heat I was a bit more relaxed and just pulled into that wave and it worked out."
The O'Neill Cold Water Classic South Africa had been billed as the 'wildest event in professional surfing'. Over the past week it more than lived up to its name.
"O'Neill took a risk to hold an event here in Cape Town in the middle of winter," said Royden. "There can be some pretty huge out of control storms down here."
With howling winds, huge rain squalls, and cold winter temperatures both in the water and out – there were definitely some out of control storms.
And although the sheltered east coast of the Cape provided a sanctuary, it was still quintessential Cold Water Classic conditions.
"I was cold all day," said Blake. "I think it is the adrenaline that kept me going. I cannot wait for a hot shower and a few beers. But that's part of the whole series – battling the elements."
And it's not going to get any warmer; next stop on the CWC Series - the freezing colds of Vancouver Island, Canada in October.
February 10, 2009 – Xavier de le Rue has won the 2009 Swatch O'Neill Big Mountain Pro after being voted best snowboarder as well as the overall winner of the competition with his signature dynamic and fluid riding.
"I thought coming into this competition that Cody Townsend was going to win the overall competition," said Xavier. "But when we were watching the videos it was so cool that everyone was cheering after my runs. Then I started to think that maybe I could win it."
For taking both prizes, French snowboarder Xavier walks away with $20,000 which he says he will "spend on a nice holiday with my family."
Last year's winner Jeremy Jones who was voted in second place, was happy to see his friend take victory: "It's been an amazing week," said Jeremy. "Xavier's riding is always incredible to watch."
Santa Cruz local, Cody Townsend walked away with victory from amongst the skiers with his always astounding fast runs and smooth skiing.
"A lot of people were saying I could win before I came here," he said. "I was surprised when I came here the first year and I finished second. Then last year when I finished fourth I was a little disappointed. So now to come first is amazing," he said.
"I think I learnt a lot in the past two years of the Big Mountain Pro. I don't do a lot of competitions so every time I do I improve a lot."
After an intense judging session, the riders are now off to celebrate the end of a successful week of near-perfect riding conditions and incredible snow at "Gosstall" in Saalbach Hinterglem with DJ Gitta Saxx and the Urban Knights from London.
Earlier this morning, the final day of competition was cancelled as the clouds came in earlier than predicted.
"This morning was off because the early morning window closed and the risk of having flat light was too big to hold the contest on that face," said event director Nicolas Hale Woods.
However with four very different competition faces completed in good weather and on amazing snow, this year's Big Mountain Pro has been the best yet for Nicolas and the riders.
"For me it's been the best edition of the Big Mountain Pro for the main reason that we've had very good snow conditions," said Nicolas. "We've been able to make it work with the weather, and we haven't had to drive too much," he said. "We were so welcomed in Austria. And very simply riders are smiling and that is the key."
For Fredrik Evensen it was his first Big Mountain Pro and his first venture into a freeriding competition.
"It's been fun," he said. "I've learnt a lot. It's been a great experience for me."
"The funniest thing has been having to pick a line before I drop in. It's the first time I've ever planned where I'm going. What surprised me the first time dropping in is instead of being four turns as I had thought, it was one. I had to improvise a bit," he said.
"When I do freeestyle riding I don't worry about safety precautions. It's been good to get a reality check," Fredrik said. "My understanding of the mountain has really improved."
"I want to continue freeriding. Freestyle riding is what I do, but I hope it will change. I'm tired of doing the same jump for the last ten years. I want to try something new. I'm not sure I want to do anything too crazy. The tree runs were what I loved. That's my thing."
Watch all the highlights from the 2009 Swatch O'Neill Big Mountain Pro on www.oneilltv.com
O'Neill Global HQ – Warmond, The Netherlands – December 13, 2008 – Freestyle professional snowboarding phenomenon Sebastien Toutant AKA Seb Toots has signed a new three-year deal with O'Neill.
The 16-year-old French Canadian exploded onto snowboarding's global stage for the first time in 2006, coming from nowhere as a 13-year-old amateur to win the Empire Shakedown contest in Canada. Since then, Toutant has been busy traveling the globe and cementing his reputation as one of snowboarding's brightest young talents.
Despite setting the bar so high at such a young age, Toutant hasn't been fazed by the weight of expectation. Instead, the young rookie has gone from strength to strength. After notching up another victory in Canada at the end-of-season Telus World Ski & Snowboard Festival, the Montreal native traveled south to New Zealand this summer to compete in the Big Air event at the Billabong Snow Stock Festival. It was there that he chose to unleash his signature Tootsie Roll – a double corked backside 1080 – to claim his first career victory on foreign soil.
Toutant's appetite for trick innovation and his ability to land the unthinkable have made the industry sit up and take notice. This season, the rookie has been invited to compete in some of the world's biggest contests, including the TTR 6Star Nissan X-Trail Jam, O'Neill Evolution and Billabong Air & Style Quarterpipe. With Toutant clearly marked out as a star of the future, it surely won't be long before he fulfills his longstanding ambition to compete in the Winter X-Games. As well as going head-to-head against the world's best riders, Toutant will also showcase his skills on film this season by putting together another banger video part with one of the world's finest snowboard film production companies.
Pausing for thought on his way to Tokyo, where he'll compete in front of 70,000 fanatical spectators at the X-Trail Jam, Seb said: "I'm really stoked to sign with O'Neill. They're doing a lot of great things in snowboarding, and they've been supporting me for a long time already. They really understand what I want to achieve and have always given me the support and guidance I need to step my game up. Looking ahead, I just want to keep progressing and eventually end up pushing the sport as much as riders like Travis Rice and Eero Ettala. Thanks once again to everyone at O'Neill and a big shout out to my team manager Max Henault for all the support."
O'Neill Global Snow Team Manager Franck Corbery is proud to keep Toutant at the heart of the O'Neill Global Youth Team, saying: "Seb has the potential to occupy a position at the pinnacle of freestyle snowboarding for many years to come. More importantly, he's one of the few riders blessed with the talent and sense of creativity needed to take the sport to the next level. His groundbreaking riding style is bang in line with the innovative character of the O'Neill brand, and this latest deal is a real testament to Max's hard work and commitment towards nurturing local talent. We're all super happy to get right behind Toots as he continues to fulfill his incredible potential."
To witness the Toots madness first hand, check out KNOCKOUT – the latest movie by Alterna Films. And keep an eye out for Seb's signature O'Neill jacket, dropping worldwide in 2009/10.
ANE ENDERUD CROWNED FREERIDE WORLD CHAMPION 2010!
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ANE ENDERUD CROWNED FREERIDE
WORLD CHAMPION 2010!
Verbier, Switzerland
– 22 March 2010 - O'Neill freeride skier, Ane Enderud has won
the Freeride World Championship 2010 following a spectacular victory in the final
event of the season – at the Bec des Rosses in Verbier, Switzerland.
"I
just can't believe I am on top!" said Ane after her run, which brought her the
World Tour victory.
It
is the second year in a row that the Norwegian skier has taken the accolade. And
it is made all the more remarkable by the fact that she was forced to sit out
the first part of the Freeride World Tour this season with a back injury.
"I
am super happy especially after the disappointing start of the season when my
back problems forced me to pull out of the competition in Chamonix," said Ane.
However,
determined as ever, she followed this up with two victories and a second place
result.
And
her victory in Verbier on the weekend was the final achievement, which secured
her title. "I got a bit lost down the Bec des Rosses and changed my line choice
when I skied it," said Ane. "So I was stoked to take the big cliff jump and
land it clean without having inspected it beforehand!"
CONGRATULATIONS
ANE ENERUD!!
Martinez, team O'Neill's latest signing has arrived on the Gold Coast
in preparation for the 2010 Dream Tour event at Snapper Rocks. Bobby
has been zoning in and avoiding the Superbank crowds by taking the
drive south of the Tweed River making the most of the hollow pipes and
punt sections at Fingal.
Stay tuned to www.oneill.com as team O'Neill surfers Jordy Smith, Bobby
Martinez, Roy Powers and Shaun Cansdell tear up the Gold Coast.