Jeffreys Bay, South Africa — Kauaians Andy Irons and Sunny Garcia know how to wow the crowd even when WCT tour is postponed. In an expression session held on Tuesday following the decision to again postpone the Billabong Pro at
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa — Kauaians Andy Irons and Sunny Garcia know how to wow the crowd even when WCT tour is postponed.
In an expression session held on Tuesday following the decision to again postpone the Billabong Pro at Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, Irons won the “most innovative” division, while Sunny Garcia grabbed the “most radical” bracket to prove Kaua’i surfers know how to stretch the boundaries of the sport of surfing.
Irons wowed the crowd with a carving forehand reverse maneuver to become the competition’s most innovative surfer, and Garcia used his trademark power snaps to cling to the most radical title.
The Billabong Pro was again postponed yesterday after being placed on standby all morning. Organizers evaluated conditions but ultimately decided to hold off for the expected swell increase overnight before recommencing the US$250,000 World Championship Tournament (WCT) with round three heats.
Good 4ft (1.3m) waves were on offer, with a slight onshore wind helping to create ideal crumbling lips to launch their aerial manoeuvres.
Other winners: Former world #2 Taj Burrow took out the best aerial category for his huge double rail grab air, and Beau Emerton was his usual entertaining self, surfing with a ‘poo-man’ stance and then stripping out of his wetsuit in the chilly ocean and riding waves in just his boxer shorts as he swung his wetsuit above head.
“I love the MSF Expression Sessions,” said Burrow afterward. “They’re the best part of the events. They give everyone the chance to go mad, because all these guys can. It’s great.”
Current rating leader Irons faces local VZ wildcard favorite Sean Holmes (SAfr). Garcia is set to face Australia’s Lee Winkler.
