Hossegor, France – Andy Irons knew it was a day of upsets, but he refused become a victim. Irons avenged a previous defeat Friday at the Quicksilver Pro France, eliminating wildcard Troy Brooks (Aus). The Kauaian lost to Brooks in
Hossegor, France – Andy Irons knew it was a day of upsets, but he refused become a victim.
Irons avenged a previous defeat Friday at the Quicksilver Pro France, eliminating wildcard Troy Brooks (Aus). The Kauaian lost to Brooks in round three of the Quiksilver Pro in Fiji this year, but remained in control for the duration of their rematch yesterday. His second wave included a great barrel ride the judges awarded a 9.0, and despite some big turns his opponent required another score of 9.86-points.
“Payback’s sweet, definitely,” said Irons afterward. “It feels really, really good, just to be out of the 17th (place) round, too. Into the 9th round and the waves are pumping, so it’s looking good.
The $250,000 World Championship Tournament (WCT) recommenced yesterday with remaining men’s round two heats, then moved straight into the third where plenty of upsets transpired.
Perfect 6ft (2m) right-handers were on offer at the main site at Le Nord, with larger sets during some heats.
Six-time world champion Kelly Slater (USA) dominated the Quiksilver Pro with an outstanding performance against Taj Burrow (Aus).
Current #41 Luke Hitchings eliminatated #3 Michael Lowe.
Current #39 Paul Canning (SAfr) created another upset against current #4 Danny Wills (Aus). Current #36 Beau Emerton (Aus) secured his best result this year by eliminating Shane Dorian (Haw) and then current #5 Joel Parkinson (Aus) in a nail-biting round three match.
Current #35 Maz Quinn (NZ) continued the trend of upsets, posting a 9.0 to defeat Fabio Gouveia (Brz) and then eliminated current #8 Cory Lopez (USA) in round three.
Current #43 Neco Padaratz (Brz) advanced past 1999 world champion and current #7 Mark Occhilupo (Aus).
Current #31 Guilherme Herdy (Brz) won the last heat of the day over #10 Mick Fanning (Aus).