Viernes 23 de Abril 2004

Peruvian Sofia Mulanovich Wins Roxy Pro
Fiji, April 18-24

    Friday, April 23, 2004 (Tavarua & Namotu Islands, Fiji) Peruvian Sofia Mulanovich today won the fourth annual Roxy Pro in perfect conditions. The richest ever (US$73,300) women’s World Championship Tournament (WCT) resumed with quarterfinals this morning and ran through until the 2004 champion was crowned.
   Perfect 4-5 ft (1.5m) waves were on offer for the final day at Cloudbreak. The new swell, which was generated from a storm 10-days ago some 9,000kms away, arrived on cue for an ideal event climax.
   The 35-minute final against Hawaiian Rochelle Ballard proved the best heat of the entire tournament, as both contestants posted huge scores with incredible surfing. Mulanovich’s opening ride secured her piece of history though, as the diminutive natural footer waited for one of the larger set waves and unleashed an inspired backhand attack for the Roxy Pro’s only perfect 10-point score.
   Riding the success of her recent ISA world title in Ecuador just two weeks ago, the 20-year-old then locked in another 7.75 to create a commanding lead. Having previously finished runner-up in the 2002 Roxy Pro France - as an event wildcard, today’s result marks her first WCT win and moved her into third position on the current ASP ratings.
   “I’m in the clouds right now,” began Mulanovich, after being congratulated by fellow competitors and friends in the lineup. “Everything here is so beautiful and perfect, and I can’t imagine being happier.
   “It was great surfing against ‘Roachie’,” she added, of her roommate on Tavarua. “We’ve been talking about how it would be if we both made the final, and it happened. I knew my first wave was a good one, but I had to do everything I could to win the final. It felt really good when they said it was a 10-point ride, but I was still really nervous, as I knew she could get one also. I just had to take advantage of the situation, and thank God another wave came for me.
   “I was stoked to make a final in France as wildcard, but I really wanted to win,” she continued, of the result in France. “Then after watching most of my friends like Chelsea (Georgeson) and Sam (Cornish) get wins, I was so determined. Finally I got it and it feels insane.”
   Ballard, who posted a near-perfect 9.75 backhand tube ride this morning, as well as the highest combined tally of the tournament for 18.5-points, was clearly in form. The 33-year-old commenced her final campaign strongly and emerged from another deep barrel for an 8.75, yet still required another worth 9.01-points at completion. By reaching her second consecutive final of the year though, she had already amassed enough points to take the ratings lead.
   “I’m really excited,” said Ballard, of the ratings. “It feels weird to be in the first two finals in a row and not win, but it’s actually just making me hungrier. Every competitor on the WCT this year is really insane, and I look up to all of the girls, so it’s never a walk in the park.
   “I’m really stoked for her,” she added, in praise of Mulanovich. “That first win is so insane. Actually, next time I win is going to be like the first time since it’s been so long (laughs). Roxy put on a great event and I’m just proud to be on tour still, going strong.”
   Equal third were Maria ‘Tita’ Tavares (BRA) and Laurina McGrath (Byron Bay, AUS). Tavares, who made a comeback to the WCT ranks in 2004, posted a great win over fellow Brazilian and ratings leader Jacqueline Silva this morning, but was unable to match the scores of Mulanovich. Nonetheless, the result marks her best ever on the WCT.
   “I’m so happy to make the semifinals,” said Tavares. “This is my first time, and I love the waves at Cloudbreak so much. Sofia surfed very well. I’m looking forward to all the events this year.”
   McGrath - who received an ASP wildcard position for the year, following an injury late last season that hindered her qualifying chances - again proved her place is among the elite. The 21-year-old reached the quarterfinals of the opening Roxy Pro on Australia’s Gold Coast this past March, and today went one better. Following a massive win over six-time world champion Layne Beachley in the quarters, she surfed a confident semi against Ballard, but ultimately required another wave worth 7.51-points. Her combined results have already pushed her into fourth position on the current ratings.
   “I’m happy with the way I went, even though I didn’t quite make the final,” said McGrath. “To get past Layne in the quarters… I was really happy. I’m just taking this year one heat at a time. All the girls are surfing so well, so every heat I make is a bonus and I’m really happy with the way I’ve started.”
   Finishing equal fifth in the Roxy Pro were Australians Chelsea Georgeson (Gold Coast), Layne Beachley (Manly) and Trudy Todd (Gold Coast), together with Brazilian Jacqueline Silva (Florianopolis).
   Silva, winner of the opening Roxy Pro on Australia’s Gold Coast earlier this year, lost a close battle with Tavares, while Beachley had her quest for a Roxy Pro title stopped by rising star McGrath’s final 9-point ride. The Australian has an amazing track record all over the globe, but is yet to advance past the quarterfinals here in Fiji.
   Two Roxy expression sessions were also held today, one prior to and then another following the final. Chelsea Georgeson collected the best ride in the opening session, while Keala Kennelly was awarded the best maneuver. Then in the second, Laurina McGrath and Heather Clark (ZAF) did likewise.
   With competition responsibilities now out of the way, the world’s best women are partying like there’s no tomorrow on Tavarua Island. DJ KK (world #2 Keala Kennelly) has the dance floor packed and festivities are sure to continue long after another majestic sunset has highlighted the day’s end here in paradise.
   Official Roxy Pro Results
1st Sofia Mulanovich (PERU) 17.75 – US$10,600
2nd Rochelle Ballard (HAW) 15.5 – US$6,600
   Semifinals (1st>Final; 2nd=3rd receives US$4,600)
SF1: Sofia Mulanovich (PER) 17.25 def. Maria Tavares (BRA) 7.75
SF2: Rochelle Ballard (HAW) 14.75 def. Laurina McGrath (AUS) 14.25
   Quarterfinals (1st>Semifinals; 2nd=5th receives US$)
QF1: Sofia Mulanovich (PER) 14.4 def. Chelsea Georgeson (AUS) 9.6
QF2: Maria Tavares (BRA) 12.9 def. Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 12.75
QF3: Laurina McGrath (AUS) 15.0 def. Layne Beachley (AUS) 12.0
QF4: Rochelle Ballard (HAW) 18.25 def. Trudy Todd (AUS) 13.5
   Official ASP women’s Top 10 ratings after WCT#2
1. Rochelle Ballard (HAW) 1,944-points
2. Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 1,752
3. Sofia Mulanovich (PERU) 1,560
=4. Chelsea Georgeson (AUS), Maria Tavares (BRA), Laurina McGrath (AUS)
7. Melanie Redman-Carr (AUS)
8. Layne Beachley (AUS) 1,104
=9. Samantha Cornish (AUS), Trudy Todd (AUS) 912  

Jueves 22 de Abril 2004

Rip Curl Pro
Peniche-Portugal, April 6-16
HIGH EXPECTATIONS IN RIP CURL PRO PENICHE AS BIG SWELL ARRIVES

Sábado 17 de Abril 2004

Roxy Pro
Fiji, April 18-24

   Traditional Fijian Welcoming Ceremony Kicks Off Event
   Saturday, April 17, 2004 (Tavarua & Namotu Islands, Fiji) The fourth annual Roxy Pro enjoyed a traditional Fijian welcoming ceremony today, with the women’s World Championship Tournament (WCT) entering its official waiting period tomorrow. The prestigious stand-alone event, held off the idyllic Islands of Tavarua & Namotu, will showcase the world’s top 17 rated women, together with six Trialists vying for one remaining wildcard spot.
   The Roxy Pro Fiji is the second event on this year’s Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) WCT schedule, and follows the opening tournament – The Roxy Pro – on Australia’s Gold Coast at the start of March, earlier this year.
   After traveling from distant corners of the globe, the world’s best female surfers arrived on Tavarua Island today, with high expectations and a visible ‘stoke’ upon being in this tropical paradise. A beautiful Fijian day greeted the invited surfers, guests and international media contingent - though the ocean was sleeping - as only small 2ft (0.6m) waves were on offer at the main contest break of Cloudbreak.
   The welcoming party this afternoon offered a traditional Kava drinking ceremony and speeches from the local Fijian chiefs, as well as the soothing sounds of their native music. Representatives of the many surfing nations here to compete then offered their own token of thanks, with bundles of Kava root presented to Chief Druku.
   Reigning six-time world champion Layne Beachley (Manly, AUS) summed up the sentiments of most, as she gave her offering; “We’re blessed to be in such a beautiful place and be welcomed by such warm and friendly people. On behalf of everyone, thank you for sharing these Islands, your culture and your friendship.”
   Four-time world champion and co-contest director Lisa Andersen (USA) offered her take on being back in Fiji, as well as what we can expect the coming week.
   “It’s great to be back and I’m looking forward to getting some good surf this week,” said Andersen. “We’re going to wake up every morning and check out conditions, hold a good event, and have a great time. There’s so much to do here on the Islands, and it’s such a beautiful place. Everyone seems to relax and just chill.”
   Defending Roxy Pro champion and world #2 Keala Kennelly (Kauai, HAW) acknowledged her duel interests on Fiji. As well as obvious desire for hollow waves, the Kauaian will again act as Island DJ during any of the evening festivities, having left her turn-tables here two years ago.
   “I always get stoked to come back to Fiji,” said Kennelly. “Whenever there is a possibility of getting good waves and being able to surf with one other chick in the water, I’m amped. I’m definitely looking forward to Djing at the closing party too.”
   The 2004 Roxy Pro Trialists include Rosy Hodge (ZAF), Veronica Kay (USA), Kaori Mayaguchi (JPN), Kassia Meador (USA), Caroline Sarran (FRA) and Carly Smith (AUS). Two Trials heats consisting of three girls will kick off the Roxy Pro, with a four-women final then deciding the sole wildcard spot on offer in the main event.
   A decision will be made tomorrow morning as to the day’s schedule, with updates available on www.roxy.com
   Upcoming Roxy Pro Round One Heats (1st, 2nd>Rnd3; 3rd>Rnd2)
H1: Melanie Redman-Carr (AUS); Heather Clark (ZAF); Pauline Menczer (AUS)
H2: Chelsea Georgeson (AUS); Maria Tavares (BRA); Melanie Bartels (HAW)
H3: Jacqueline Silva (BRA); Sofia Mulanovich (PER); Trials Winner
H4: Layne Beachley (AUS); Trudy Todd (AUS); Prue Jeffries (AUS)
H5: Rochelle Ballard (HAW); Laurina McGrath (AUS); Megan Abubo (HAW)
H6: Keala Kennelly (HAW); Samantha Cornish (AUS); Lynette MacKenzie (AUS)

Jueves 15 de Abril 2004

Joel Parkinson Wins Rip Curl Pro
Bels Beach, April 6-16

  Thursday, April 15, 2004 (Bells Beach, VIC, AUS) Australian Joel Parkinson (Gold Coast) today won the 32nd annual Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach. Event #2 on the 2004 Foster’s men’s ASP World Championship Tournament (WCT) resumed this morning with quarterfinal clashes, running right through until this year’s champion was crowned.
   Perfect 4ft (1.3m) waves were again on offer, though unfortunately became inconsistent as the event progressed towards its climax on the lower tide.
   The 35-minute decider against fellow Australian Taj Burrow (Yallingup, WA) commenced with one of the most dramatic starts to a heat all event. Parkinson stroked into an epic set wave and proceeded to surf it brilliantly for a near-perfect 9.63 score. Burrow, on the other hand, caught the wave behind, but creased his surfboard attempting a re-entry and was forced to return to the beach for his back-up board. Things never really improved for him.
   ‘Parko’ – last year’s event runner-up – posted the only perfect 10 of the tournament in the semifinals, also earning the highest overall tally with 19.5-points, to eliminate defending two-times Rip Curl Pro champ Andy Irons. Having last won a WCT during the Rip Curl Cup at the end of 2002 in Hawaii, today’s victory moved the 23-year-old into second position on this year’s adjusted ratings and banked US$30,000 prizemoney.
   “I don’t know what to say,” began Parkinson, after being carried up the beach by good mates and previous Rip Curl Pro winners Mick Fanning and Mark Occhilupo. “I didn’t expect that this morning, but I’m pretty much over he moon.
   “A wave came and everything felt good,” he continued, of his opening ride. “It feels so good not to get second. I got three last year and they were all to Andy, so it was great to beat him in the semis and finally win one. To get my name on the Bells trophy is one of the greatest achievements of my life. I knew Taj could comeback if he got a bomb out there, but I guess it was my day. Thanks to everyone for coming down and sharing it with me.”
   Burrow - last year’s world #3 - never gave up despite his initial disadvantage. The 25-year-old slightly bridged the massive gap created by his opponent, posting a 7.87 with a crowd-pleasing ride, highlighted by a trademark aerial maneuver on the inside. Ultimately he required another ride worth 9.27-points.
   “It’s pretty hard to make a comeback when conditions are that inconsistent, especially when Joel gets a 9.63 first wave,” reasoned Burrow. “All I could do was try, and I got within range, but inconsistently nailed me.
   “It was my best board and I heard it crack when I tried to hit the lip,” he added, of the initial situation. “It didn’t take long to change boards, but it did rattle me a little bit. Then I was just trying to fight back, but you can’t get angry that a wave didn’t come. The real deal would have be the one, but I’m content and stoked with the result.”
   Equal third were reigning two-times consecutive Rip Curl Pro and ASP world champion Andy Irons (Kauai, HAW), as well as Californian Pat O’Connell. Both earned US$10,000 and a major boost to their 2004 world title aspirations.
   Irons had earlier collected the highest overall tally during round three, but against Parkinson in a rematch of their 2003 final at Johanna, the 25-year-old was unable to stop his opponent going one better. The Kauaian led momentarily during the exchange, before ‘Parko’ locked in his perfect ride and stormed ahead. The defending champ opted to return to shore six minutes early, but still gained control of this year’s ASP ratings with another strong result.
   “Joel got a 9.5 and then was really patient, picking off another set to score a 10 on it, so I was pretty much smashed,” explained Irons. “He definitely got revenge, but at least it wasn’t the final. I would have been nice to be in the final again, but it wasn’t on the cards.
   “Loving that,” he added, of leading the ratings again. “The tour is a marathon, not really a sprint, so two good results already and I’m stoked. Just want to keep the momentum flowing throughout the year and keep it up.”
   O’Connell, who received a World Professional Surfers (WPS) wildcard for 2004 - following a knee injury late last year – justified the spot with his best result in more than a year. The 32-year-old began his day with a dream win over Bells’ roommate and six-time world champ Kelly Slater, but then had his campaign narrowly ended by Burrow. The Californian required an 8.28 with three minutes to go and snagged a clean set wave. After landing a big floater and emerging from a great barrel, the wave unfortunately faded out and his score returned an 8.23, slightly below mark.
   This whole contest has been such a blessing,” reasoned O’Connell. “Every time someone else needed a wave against me the ocean went flat, and Kelly’s ride was a second too late, so... I didn’t expect anything and had a good time. I really wanted to get it, and it was fun surfing with Taj, as I really look up to his surfing. My last wave completely died, but gosh, I almost had it. I’m not disappointed at all though, and I think it was exciting for the people on the beach, which I feel is a big part of it.”
   Finishing equal fifth in the Rip Curl Pro were 2001 event winner Mick Fanning (Gold Coast, AUS), fellow Australian Toby Martin (Dee Why, NSW), six-time world champion Kelly Slater (FL, USA) and 1998 event champ Mark Occhilupo (Gold Coast, AUS).
   In what proved a wave-starved heat, Slater uncharacteristically fell on his first good ride and then tried in vain to catch O’Connell’s lead. As the final seconds elapsed an ideal set wave approached the Floridian, but by the time he had taken his hands from the rail of his surfboard to begin surfing, the siren had sounded to mark the heat’s completion. Adding insult to injury, the 32-year-old went berserk on the ride and almost surely secured the 8.0 score he required.
   Official Rip Curl Pro Results
1st Joel Parkinson (AUS) 17.13 – US$30,000
2nd Taj Burrow (AUS) 14.04 - US$16,000
   Semifinals (1st>Final; 2nd=3rd receives US$10,000)
SF1: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 19.5 def. Andy Irons (HAW) 14.33
SF2: Taj Burrow (AUS) 16.2 def. Pat O’Connell (USA) 16.1
    Quarterfinals (1st>Semifinal; 2nd=5th receives US$8,000)
QF1: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 13.5 def. Mick Fanning (AUS) 9.1
QF2: Andy Irons (HAW) 15.67 def. Toby Martin (AUS) 10.
QF3: Pat O’Connell (USA) 14.5 def. Kelly Slater (USA) 10.7
QF4: Taj Burrow (AUS) 14.67 def. Mark Occhilupo (AUS) 6.67
   ASP Ratings After WCT#2/12
1. Andy Irons (HAW) 1,908-points
2. Joel Parkinson (AUS) 1,80
3. Michael Lowe (AUS) 1,680
4. Taj Burrow (AUS) 1.632
5. Taylor Knox (USA) 1,476
=6. Kelly Slater (USA); Mark Occhilupo (AUS) 1,464
8. Jake Paterson (AUS) 1,33
9. Victor Ribas (BRA) 1,212
=10. Guilherme Herdy (BRA); Paulo Moura (BRA) 1,200

Miércoles 14 de Abril 2004

Rip Curl Pro
Peniche-Portugal, April 23-25

   Rip Curl Pro Peniche-Portugal, April 23-25. 

Sábado 10 de Abril 2004

Tom Curren re-signs with Rip Curl down at the Rip Curl Pro

  Saturday, April 10 2004 - Leading international surfing company Rip Curl is today pleased to announce legend surfer Tom Curren is officially back on the Rip Curl team for the next five years.
   Curren, the 1985, 1986 and 1990 ASP World Champion, signed the five-year deal to endorse Rip Curl Eyewear and Footwear last night at the Rip Curl Pro VIP Media Night Function, held at Rip Curl's Head Office in Torquay, Australia.
   "Tom Curren is truly an iconic figure in world surfing and we welcome him back to the Rip Curl family around the world with open arms," said Adam Sharp, Rip Curl USA VP Sales & Marketing.
   Curren is equally stoked about the partnership and is looking forward to playing a role in Rip Curl's future during the next few years.
   "I'm really excited to be back with Rip Curl, it's a great opportunity for me to again be involved with such a great company" expressed Curren. "I'm not competing as much anymore, but being on the team is a great way to help out the other team guys and be involved with future business opportunities."
   Tom will have an important role to play across various grassroots projects, retail marketing and commercial promotions, and content creation assignments both in the USA and across the globe.
   In Torquay to sign the deal and compete in the Rip Curl Pro Trials earlier this week, Curren was also awarded a Rip Curl Pro VIP Gold Pass. The Gold Pass affords Curren complete VIP treatment at the Rip Curl Pro throughout the Easter period. He joins fellow greats Wayne Lynch, Jeff Hakman and Simon Anderson, and Rip Curl co-founders Doug 'Claw" Warbrick and Brian Singer as the only other Rip Curl Pro VIP Gold Pass holders.
   "I'm honoured to get that and I think it's a great way to include some of the people that have been around the event in the past," said Curren after accepting the Gold Pass. "There are new faces down at Bells every year now and I think this award is a good way to acknowledge those that have contributed since it started."
   Tom Curren, the 1985 and 1990 Rip Curl Pro Champion, is certainly one surfer who has contributed more than his fair share to the sport of surfing. He charged onto the surfing scene in 1980 by winning the Junior Division of the World Amateur Surfing Championships and unleashed a fresh new approach to riding waves that was emulated by surfers world-wide. Combining a super smooth style with powerful performance moves, the Californian took surfing to a new level and set an unmatched standard for surfing's elite.
   In 1985 and at age 19, Curren created history by becoming the first ever American to win the World Title since the World Championship Tour (WCT) began in 1976. He went on to win two more World Titles, defending his crown in 1986 and then making a miraculous professional comeback in 1990 to win the crown as an unseeded competitor.
   Although he is a world famous surfing figure, has won more WCT events than most pros dream about and still makes surfing press on a regular account, Curren remains a mystery man, a soul surfer and a surf searcherŠ .
   Rip Curl welcomes Tom Curren back to the family.

Domingo 4 de Abril 2004

Rip Curl Pro
Bels Beach, April 6-16

   Rip Crl Po press Lunch & Srf dive 'n' ski trials set to kick-start festival fortnight at Blls Bach.
   Sunday, April 4, 2004: While the World Championship Tournament (WCT) competition will be the main event at the 2004 Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach next week, global surfing company Rip Curl has promised to serve up plenty of other festival-style events and promotions that will interest and involve surfing fans across the state of Victoria
   The 2004 Rip Curl Pro Press Launch, being held at Federation Square's Transport Bar in Melbourne at 10am on Monday, April 5, and the Surf Dive 'n' Ski Trials will officially kick off the event and launch the fortnight of festivities in Torquay. At the completion of the Press Conference, Federation Square will transform into an all-invited Rip Curl Launch Party open to the general public. The Launch Party will run from 12pm to 4pm and will feature Rip Curl Video displays, Pro Surf Team signings, Nintendo and Intensity Gaming Contests, Triple M promotions, comedians, street performers and plenty of Rip Curl giveaways.
   While Melbourne crowds will be getting amongst the Launch Party celebrations, surfing fans in Torquay will be lining Bells Beach to watch the Surf Dive 'n' Ski Trials action. Rip Curl has selected seven team surfers, including Hawaiians Pancho Sullivan and Jamie O'Brien, leading Aussie WQS surfers Clint Kimmins (Gold Coast, Qld), Zane Harrison (Sunshine Coast, Qld) and Travis Lynch (Newcastle, NSW), Bruno Santos (Brz), 2003 Rip Curl South Africa Tube Riders winner David Weare and 1985 Rip Curl Pro Champion Tom Curren (California, USA), to contest the Trials alongside the eight local Victorian surfers selected, including Surf Coast surfers Jack Perry, Willy Day and Nic Muscroft, Phillip Island surfers Steve Noble, Glyndon Ringrose and Sandy Ryan, 2003 Victorian Open Champion Steve Hughes (Airey's Inlet) and Adam Robertson (Portland). Up for grabs at the Trials are two wildcard entries into Round 1 of the Rip Curl Pro World Championship Tournament. This unique prize is a great opportunity for the local and up-coming Rip Curl surfers.
   "This unique Trials format gives emerging Rip Curl and Victorian surfers a unique career-altering opportunity," says Contest Director Max Wells. "It gives promising surfers the chance to make a WCT event and match it against the world's very best."
   While the world's best 45 surfers will all be in Torquay on Monday and are sure to be the main draw card for fans coming to town to experience the Rip Curl Pro, the public will have the chance to get involved with constant on and off-site promotions being held throughout the week. Saturday and Sunday (April 10 and 11) are expected to be two of the biggest days of partying on the Surf Coast next week, with Rip Curl hosting a Pro Team signing in the Torquay Rip Curl retail store at 4pm on Saturday, with entertainment and bands on hand in the store carpark during this time.
   The Rip Curl Gromsearch National Series Final will be held at Bells Beach on Saturday, with Australia's hottest under 17-year-old surfers getting the chance to show off their skills in front of the massive crowd that will be on hand. The Rip Curl Gromsearch is a grass roots level surfing comp, which is ran nationally for surfers under the age of 17.
   The Rip Curl Pro Celebrity Surf Session is planned to run at Bells Beach on either Saturday or Sunday (depending on the WCT competition) and will feature a host of high profile Aussie musicians, sport stars and media celebs. Some of the confirmed entrants include Olympic Gold Medallist James Tomkins, leading Australian jockey Damien Oliver, musician Nick Barber, radio personality Gerard Healy and Stingers star Peter Phelps.
   Rip Curl Pro Major Sponsor Nintendo will be heavily involved with this year's Rip Curl Pro on-site activities, hosting many Nintendo gaming promotions and competitions in and around the Bells Beach Nintendo marquee. Nintendo Australia and Rip Curl are stoked to release the brand new Rip Curl Special Edition Game Boy Advance SP, a joint company development available at all major Game Boy Advance retailers from April 6.
   There will also be a host of promotional activities running at Falls Creek over the weekend, including snow mobile demonstrations and Falls Creek ticket and holiday giveaways. Coupled with the Rip Curl Jet Ski demos at Bells Beach throughout the week, surfing fans will get a taste of other action sport activities.
   Rip Curl Pro sponsor and national radio station Triple M will be a major presence in Torquay and across the air-waves, running giveaways, games and other crazy activities.
   The Rip Curl Pro is Australia's longest running professional surfing and holds a proud place in surfing folklore, stretching back to 1973. The Rip Curl Pro's status as one of six Victorian Government-designated Hallmark Events each year, alongside the Melbourne Formula One and Phillip Island Motorcycle Grand Prix, the Australian Tennis Open, the Melbourne Cup and the AFL Grand Final, is an acknowledgment of its contribution the state's rich sporting culture.
   The 32nd annual Rip Curl Pro would not be possible without the support given by Surfing Victoria, the Surf Coast Shire Council, the Victorian Department of Tourism, Sport & The Commonwealth Games, and the Association of Surfing Professionals - plus the supporting sponsorship of Nintendo, Coca-Cola, Triple M, Tracks, Nokia, Telstra, Falls Creek, Frankston Yamaha and Beaumont's.  

Domingo 4 de Abril 2004

Neco Padaratz wins Salomon Masters
Margaret River-Western Australia, March 29-April 4

  Sunday, April 4, 2004 (Margaret River, Western Australia) Brazilian Neco Padaratz today convincingly won the Prime rated 6-Star Salomon Masters. Australia’s premier World Qualifying Series (WQS) tournament resumed with quarterfinals this morning, climaxing with the crowning of the 2004 event champion. A Toohey’s Extra Dry Expression Session also took place prior to the final.
   Following an amazing week of surf at Margaret River, good 4-5 ft (1.5m) waves remained, though strong winds created difficult bumps as conditions deteriorated.
   Padaratz (Florianopolis, SC), who finished runner-up in the 2001 Salomon Masters, showed his determination as soon as today’s final commenced. The 2003 World Qualifying Series (WQS) winner amazingly locked in two nine plus scoring rides within the opening 10-minutes, while his three opponents struggled to post anything substantial. His combined 18.5 total – the highest of the entire tournament – ensured victory and the event’s second only (Brazil’s first) international champion in its prestigious 20-year history.
   The 27-year-old earned US$15,000 prizemoney and now leads this year’s WQS ratings race.
   “It’s more than to win the title, this contest is something special to me,” began Padaratz, surrounding by screaming supporters. “This is one thing I really wanted in my life. I love Margaret River, and am so happy. I’m shaking all over.
   “I work hard for this, and don’t mess around,” he continued. “I go about it the same way a businessman does his job. This is surfing though, in real waves. I’ve wanted this since 2001.”
   Fellow Brazilian Raoni Monteiro utilized a last minute ride to jump into runner-up position. The 21-year-old posted a 6.33 just prior to the final siren, earning US$8,000 and 2,365 ratings points.
   South African Greg Emslie finished third, while 1998 event winner and local West Australian Jake Paterson - in his third final at Margarets – placed fourth.
   “It was a bit of a one man show out there,” acknowledged Paterson. “He was in such rhythm, it was crazy. All three of us were just struggling to get anything, but he kept catching waves. It’s really frustrating, but it’s been a great week. A bit disappointing the wind swung on the last day, but everyone’s had really good waves all week. I’ll just have to wait another year to try and win it again. Torture.”
   Finishing equal fifth today in the Salomon Masters were Damien Hobgood (FL, USA) and Tom Whitaker (Bronte, AUS), while placing equal seventh following their semifinal eliminations were Phil MacDonald (NSW, AUS) and Salomon team rider and event wildcard Dan Ross (Angourie, NSW).
   South African Ricky Basnett survived an incredible eight rounds of the Salomon Masters. The 18-year-old natural footer commenced his campaign in the round of 224 surfers and carved his way through the massive field to reach the quarterfinals this morning.
   World #29 Chris Davidson (Narrabeen, AUS) was hospitalized yesterday afternoon as a result of stepping on broken glass, consequently missing his quarterfinal match this morning. The 27-year-old required microsurgery.
   The Toohey’s Extra Dry Expression Session showcased eight surfers, with Salomon team rider Nick Wallace claiming the best wave, Bede Durbidge the best maneuver, and fellow Australian Toby Martin proving the most entertaining.
   The Salomon Masters attracted a record field of 272 competitors. 19 nations were represented, with lesser-known surfing regions such as Germany mixing it up against the super powers of Australia, Hawaii, mainland USA, Brazil, South Africa, and Europe’s more established contingents of France, Spain and Portugal.
   Official 2004 Salomon Masters Results :
1st Neco Padaratz (BRA) – US$15,000
2nd Raoni Monteiro (BRA) – US$8,000
3rd Greg Emslie (ZAF) – US$6,000
4th Jake Paterson (AUS) – US$4,000
=5th Damien Hobgood (USA), Tom Whitaker (AUS)
=7th Phil MacDonald (AUS), Daniel Ross (AUS)
=9th Joel Centeio (HAW), Paulo Moura (BRA), Kieren Perrow (AUS), Renan Rocha (BRA)
=13th Darren O’Rafferty (AUS), Danilo Costa (BRA), Ricky Basnett (ZAF), Chris Davidson (AUS)

Lunes 29 de Marzo 2004

World surfing games 2004
Salinas-Ecuador, 20-28 Marzo

   Dimanche 28 mars – Nicolas CAPDEVILLE et Antoine DELPERO 4ème – La FRANCE 7ème. Antoine DELPERO à la sortie de sa finale, déçu mais quand même!!!
   Nicolas CAPDEVILLE, dans une finale Bodyboard de très haut niveau, ne put jamais trouver les bonnes vagues qui lui auraient permis de rivaliser avec ses adversaires. Pour sa 8ème participation à des Championnats du Monde c’est sa 6ème finale. Un parcours que bon nombre de compétiteurs aimeraient pourvoir afficher. Il nous annonce sa retraite sportive, mais qui sait !!!!
   Antoine DELPERO, le jeune de l’équipe, pour sa première participation accroche une finale. C’est très prometteur pour l’avenir, d’autant que la fluidité de son style a vraiment impressionné. Trop stressé pour une première participation à un tel niveau, il lui a manqué un petit rien pour gagner encore quelques places.
   Plus tôt dans la matinée nos deux ondines Emmanuelle JOLY en Surf et Héloise BOURROUX échouèrent de peu pour une place qualificative en finale. Elles prennent toutes les deux la 5ème place de leur catégorie.
   Résultats:
   Bodyboard Ondines:1 N. LEWELLIN (Aus) – 2 N CARVALHO (Br) – 3 M. TAYLOR (Esp) – C. MC GOWEN (UK)
   Bodyboard Open: 1 A LESTER (Aus) – 2 Y MARTINEZ (Esp) – 3 A. PADRON (Esp) – 4 N. CAPDEVILLE (Fr) – Une finale dans laquelle beaucoup avait vu l’espagnol MARTINEZ l’emporter.
   Longboard: 1 M. FREITAS (Br) – 2 J. RIBBINK (SAF) – 3 J. CONTABLE (Aus) – 4 A. DELPERO
   Surf Ondines: 1 S. MULANOVITCH (Per) – 2 J. CHRISTEN (USA) – 3 A. LOPES (Br) – 4 S. SHIELD (Aus)
   Surf Open: 1 H. TERRINATOOFA (Tah) – 2 T. PADARATZ (Br) – 3 M RICHARDSON (Aus) – 4 S. HOLMES (SAF) – Une très belle victoire du tahitien impressionnant tout au long de ces Championnats par son style radical en engagé.
   Classement par Equipe: 1 Australie – 2 Brésil – 3 Afrique du Sud – 4 Pérou – 5 Tahiti – 6 Espagne – 7 France – 8 Vénézuéla

   On retiendra plus particulièrement de ces Championnats: - l’excellent niveau des compétiteurs Péruviens vraiment très impressionnants - la compacité de l’Equipe d’Espagne, la fiabilité et l’engagement de ses compétiteurs - la superbe victoire du tahitien Hira TERRINATOFA - la 4ème place très prometteuse d’Antoine DELPERO - les nombreuses occasions gâchées par nos compétiteurs qui expliquent beaucoup de résultats individuels et notre 7ème place par Equipe.

Lunes 29 de Marzo 2004

Salomon Masters
Australia’s Premiere WQS Event Underway
Margaret River-Western Australia, March 29-April 4

   Monday March 29, 2004 (Margaret River, Western Australia) Surfing action arrived on the west coast today for the commencement of Australia’s premiere World Qualifying Series (WQS) – the Prime rated 6-Star Salomon Masters at Margaret River. The prestigious event, held in conjunction with the 4-Star women’s SunSmart Classic, kicked off in perfect conditions at Surfer’s Point with the opening two rounds contested.
   Clean 6ft (2m) waves were on offer this morning, though slight onshore south/southwest winds increased throughout the day. More swell is expected to arrive overnight, with organizers and competitors gearing up for a week of massive surf.
   The Salomon Masters has attracted a record field of 272 competitors, of which 27 surfers are among the ASP’s elite World Championship Tour (WCT). In total 19 nations are represented, with lesser-known surfing regions such as Germany trying their luck against the surfing super powers of Australia, Hawaii, mainland USA, Brazil, South Africa, and Europe’s more established contingents from France, Spain and Portugal.
   Australian Junior and World Grommet Champion Ben Dunn (Old Bar, NSW, Aus) put in a great showing, posting a combined tally of 16.46-points in his opening heat. With news of the increasing swell however, the youngster admitted concern over the lack of bigger surfboards he should have brought.
   “I love coming over here,” said Dunn. “I am a little bit under gunned, as I didn’t bring many boards. I have a 6’8 and that’s my biggest, but I haven’t really ridden that since Hawaii, so I will have to see how it goes. It’s going to be hard for a lot of the guys if it comes up as big as they say it will. It’s going to be pretty tough.”
   Brazilian Daniel Hardman set the pace this morning, collecting a 9.0 and combined 17-point tally, but was then eliminated this afternoon in his second round clash. Mikey Bruneau (Haw) and Jeremy Ryan (USA) ended his run, and progressed into tomorrow’s round of 224.
   Other standouts were Australians David Chick (Margaret River, WA), Joel Bonning (Cronulla, NSW) and Kye Fitzgerald (Narrabeen, NSW), as well as Hawaiian Kawika Stillwell.
   The Salomon Masters and SunSmart Classic press launch also took place today, with a traditional welcoming ceremony by the local indigenous Wardandi people from Indijup.
   Event Director Tim Thirsk offered his thanks to those involved and wished all competitors the best of luck in the 2004 tournaments.
   “I’d like to welcome all the surfers and thank the media for their support,” began Thirsk. “Thanks to the sponsors, who without their financial support we couldn’t put the event together. I’d like to thank the West Australian Tourism Commission, and also the Department of Sport & Recreation and Healthway, for holding the women’s SunSmart Classic. I’m really stoked to see the SunSmart event upgraded to a 4-Star this year. I’ve been the event director here for the past 10-years and during that time I’ve seen it grow fairly significantly. It’s been a fantastic event and I’d like to say good luck to the competitors and have a great time.”
   Salomon Surf Projector director Francious Guers expressed his company’s long-term commitment to surfing and their ongoing support of the tournament.
   “Salomon is proud to be the main sponsor of the event for the third year in a row,” offered Guers. “It’s a sign of continuity and of long term investment to surfing. I would like to thank all the other sponsors, and we are very happy to be associated with the SunSmart Classic.”
   International Basketball star Luc Longley, the Chairman of Healthway and representative of SunSmart was also present. Standing a good foot above all others at 7’2”, Longley looked slightly out of place alongside the world’s best surfers, but none would have been game to mention it.
   “We’re once again very pleased to be a major sponsor of the SunSmart Classic, which is the only event to bring international women’s surfers to Western Australia,” began Longley. “This year we’ve been able to upgrade to a 4-Star World Qualifying Series (WQS) event. Our partnership with this event helps not only to raise awareness of women’s sport, but also to educate people on the risk of skin cancer and the importance of sun protection.”
   World #3 Taj Burrow (Yallingup, WA) headlines the Salomon Masters draw, and is out to claim another title at Margaret’s. Having won the 1997 tournament, as well as finished runner-up on two separate occasions, the 25-year-old is primed for another big finish to help springboard his full assault on an ASP world title in 2004.
   “Both Jake (Paterson) and I are really competitive about having won the event once, so I’m sure we’re both stinging for another win,” reasoned Burrow. “I want to get the ball rolling with a win and build some confidence this year. This is the first major WQS event of the year. It would be a thrill to get a massive result and then go straight into Bells (next WCT event in Victoria, Australia) feeling good about it. I didn’t realize it was so long ago a West Australian won this event, so yeah, the locals should prevail in the big conditions.”
   1998 event champion and tenacious West Australian competitor Jake Paterson (Yallingup) is hoping the swell arrives, providing what he reasons would be an advantage for the local contingent.
   “The swell forecast is looking incredible, so if it doesn’t get too big it should be really interesting,” said Paterson. “I don’t surf down here very often, but I’ve surfed it enough to know what boards I should ride, which is really critical. I reckon it’s a huge advantage to be a local. Hopefully I can make the final day and fly the West Australian flag.”
   World #6 and Salomon team rider Kieren Perrow (Byron Bay, Aus) - who finished third in last year’s tournament - arrived at Margaret River early and is eager to better his previous result.
   “I came early this year just so I could feel a bit more prepared,” explained Perrow. “I’m hoping to have a good contest and end up in the final, and maybe win it this year. I had a lot of time to try out my boards in Hawaii last year, so if the swell is big, I’ll feel pretty well prepared. I’m definitely here to try and win.”
   Three-time consecutive (2000-02) SunSmart Classic winner and local West Australian Melanie Redman-Carr, who finished runner-up last year, is vying for her record eighth final’s appearance at Margarets.
   “I’m really excited this year that the event has upgraded to a 4-Star, as it’s encouraged a lot more girls to come on over,” said Redman-Carr. “It’s going to be really good for the public to see the level of women’s surfing this year.”
   Defending SunSmart Classic champion Heather Clark (ZAF) is again staying at Redman-Carr’s house while in Western Australia, but won’t let that get in the way of her campaign. The world #3 is the highest rated WCT surfer competing.
   “We’re on the opposite side of the heat draw, but Mel surfs really good out here and is a great competitor,” said Clark. “To meet her in the final again would be good, but the competition this year is going to be a lot harder than last year. It’s going to be a good contest. I won last year, so my goal is definitely to make another final and hopefully repeat the performance.”

Miércoles 17 de Marzo 2004

World surfing games 2004
Salinas-Ecuador, 20-30 Marzo

  Lundi 15 Mars World Surfing Games 2004
   L’Equipe de France de Surf participera aux prochains World Surfing Games organisés à Salinas en EQUATEUR, du 20 au 30 Mars 2004.
   Les World Surfing Games ont lieu tous les deux ans. Pour l’ensemble des Nations du Surf ce rendez-vous représente un événement incontournable, permettant à chacune des Equipes de s’étalonner par apport aux autres dans le concert international. Rappelons que l’Equipe de France avait pris la 5ème place de l’édition 2002, grâce notamment au titre de Champion du Monde de Nicolas CAPDEVILLE en Bodyboard et aux nombreuses places d’honneur des autres sélectionnés français (Héloise BOURROUX 2ème en Bodyboard Ondines, Marie Pierre ABGRALL 4ème en Surf Ondines, Cédric DUFAURE 5ème en Bodyboard, Jonathan LARCHER 5ème en Longboard, Jérémy FLORES 6ème en Surf Juniors.
   Les meilleures Nations du Surf seront présentes à ces World Surfing Games : Australie, Brésil, Afrique du Sud, USA, Hawaii, Nouevelle Zélande, Japon, Tahiti,…. Une attention toute particulière devra cependant être apportée sur les Equipes d’Amérique du Sud et d’Amérique Centrale (Argentine, Pérou, Vénezuela, Mexique, Porto Rico,…), qui possèdent toutes d’excellents surfeurs. La proximité de cette compétition devrait leur permettre d’engager des Equipes très complètes et représentatives de leur réel niveau de Surf.
Cette année, faute de concertation suffisante entre l’ASP (Association des Surfeurs professionnels qui gèrent les circuits professionnels WQS et WCT) et l’ISA (Fédération Internationale de Surf), l’Equipe de France sera privée de quelques-uns de ses leaders incontestés, engagés sur d’autres circuits (Eric REBIERE, Patrick BEVEN, Michael PICON en Surf qui participeront à ces dates là à des épreuves importantes pour leur qualification en WCT).
   Le Directeur Technique National, Francis DISTINGUIN s’est donc appuyé sur l’ossature de l’Equipe de France qui avait participé aux Championnats d’Europe aux Canaries en Octobre pour composer sa sélection. Cette équipe avait en effet fait preuve d’un remarquable esprit d’équipe et d’une grande combativité, des qualités indispensables en compétition. Tous les sélectionnés français étaient d’ailleurs encore en course dans les phases finales avant annulation de l’épreuve pour cause de pollution.
C’est donc une Equipe composée d’un savant amalgame de compétiteurs chevronnés et des futurs espoirs du Surf français, qui représentera notre Pays.
Revue d’effectif.
   Surf Open
-Romain LAULHE: Bac en poche, le jeune Angloy est allé se frotter cet hiver, aux meilleurs espoirs australiens de moins de 20 ans avec un certain succès, preuve des progrès accomplis.
-Loic ERRAN: Encore pensionnaire du Pôle France de Bayonne, ce jeune surfeur de Bidart a beaucoup progressé pour offrir désormais un Surf agressif et engagé.
-Hugo BENGHOZI: Le surfeur Guadeloupéen est un habitué des podiums nationaux depuis plusieurs années. Son surf fluide et puissant a beaucoup gagné en radicalité.
-Hogo SAVALI: Le surfeur Reunionnais possède un bagage technique complet qu’il a largement eu l’occasion d’affiner au sein du circuit professionnel WQS
   Surf Ondines
-Marie Pierre ABGRALL: Première française qualifiée sur le circuit WCT, Marie Pierre fait partie des meilleures surfeuses mondiales.
-Emmanuelle JOLY THOMAS: C’est une habituée des compétitions internationales dans lesquelles ses qualités techniques et physiques lui permettent d’obtenir d’excellents résultats.
   Bodyboard Open
-Nicolas CAPDEVILLE: Il viendra défendre son titre. Son sens aigu de la compétition et son expérience au plus haut niveau font de lui un redoutable adversaire toujours difficile à battre.
-Cédric DUFAURE: Le Mimizannais possède des qualités physiques et techniques qui ne demandent qu’à exploser. Injustement privé d’une finale lors de la précédente édition, il a une revanche à prendre ;
   Bodyboard Ondine
-Héloise BOURROUX: La guadeloupéenne fait partie depuis plusieurs années des meilleurs bodyboardeuses mondiales. Ces World Surfing Games constituent un objectif majeur pour lesquels elle s’est tout particulièrement préparée.
   Longboard
-Antoine DELPERRO: Sociétaire du Pôle France de Bayonne, ce surfeur originaire de Méditerranée affiche un surf élégant et stylé qui en fait le logique successeur de Jonathan LARCHER retenu en France pour raisons professionnelles.
   Une équipe de France qui possède donc de solides arguments dans chacune des disciplines ou catégories, et à laquelle nous souhaitons bonnes vagues et bonne chance.

Viernes 11 de Marzo 2004

Quicksilver Pro
Mick Lowe Gana a Irons en la Final del Quiksilver Pro

   Viernes, 12 de marzo del 2004 (Snapper Rock, Gold Coast, Australia). A última hora de la tarde de hoy ha dado por finalizado el Quiksilver Pro presentado por Boost Mobile en el Gold Coast. El australiano Mick Lowe ganaba la primera prueba del circuito ASP de categoría WCT, colocándose de esta manera como numero uno del ranking mundial.
   Las condiciones de mar de hoy fueron muy buenas; Con olas de casi metro y medio y un viento offshore favorable, la organización tomó la decisión de proseguir con el evento hasta la final. A lo largo del día se han realizaron los octavos, cuartos, semi-finales y por último las finales.
   Mick Lowe recordará toda su vida éste día tan especial, no sólo por ganar el evento, si no por eliminar en sus mangas a los 2 invencibles del momento, el estadounidense Kelly Slater (Florida, Usa) en cuartos de final y Andy Irons (Hawai, Haw) en la final. El Goofy no perdió mucho tiempo en conseguir en la primera ola de la final de 35 minutos, un 8.17 seguida de otra puntuada un 9.17 dejando a Irons fuera de juego.
   Habiendo ganado su último WCT hace dos años en Fiji, esta victoria es la número tres para Mick, sin embargo, lo más reconfortante es poderse sentirse en el Top del ranking del tour del ASP, posición en la que se encuentra en estos momentos, ademas de haberse embolsado hoy US$30.000.
   ?He visto a Parko y a Dingo conseguirlo y no puedo negar que estaba celoso de ellos?, empezo a decir Lowe después de haber sido llevado en hombros hasta el podium. ?Finalmente conseguir una victoria aquí, para mi es sensacional. No se puede empezar mejor el año, que ganando al campeón del mundo en la final, es demasiado?.
   ?No estaba seguro cuanto iban a puntuar la ola pero ésta toco bien el banco de arena y yo seguí haciendo giros sin parar? comentaba sobre su mejor ola.
   ?Cuando anunciaron que había puntuado un 9.17 y que Andy necesitaba para alcanzarme un 9.51 me quedé absorto. Kelly, Knox y Andy, tres seguidos?vivan los goofy? (los que surfean con el pié izquierdo delante.
   ?Finalmente ganar en Australia, es sensacional?.
   Andy Irons fue el surfista más en forma del evento consiguiendo un 9.63 y un perfecto 10 en cuartos de final. Su habilidad contra Lowe no fue cuestionada pero desafortunadamente una falta de oleaje y el despiste de dejar a su oponente coger una buena ola, le colocaron como perdedor. Pero no todo son malas noticias para el kawaiano, porque éste ha sido su mejor comienzo desde que empezó a competir en los tour WCT.
   ?Sabía que iba a ser difícil, él había estado consiguiendo nueves durante todo el día?. dijo Irons. ?Mick cogió una ola en el inside (más cerca de la orilla) y yo le dejé pasar porque no me pareció tan grande pero, que puedo decir, el es un competidor estupendo y surfea muy bien. Le felicito. Yo quería también ganar sin embargo llegar a la final esta muy bien. Ha sido un buen comienzo en el tour es año, Bells Beach (Victoria, Australia) se acerca y me encanta ese evento, no puedo esperar!?.