Hosseger, France — Reigning world champion Andy Irons of Kaua‘i overcame his recent voodoo of losing to wildcards as he eliminated local French surfer Frederick Robin at the Quiksilver Pro France today. Irons, who previously lost two World Championship Tournament
Hosseger, France — Reigning world champion Andy Irons of Kaua‘i overcame his recent voodoo of losing to wildcards as he eliminated local French surfer Frederick Robin at the Quiksilver Pro France today.
Irons, who previously lost two World Championship Tournament in round three, picked off an 8.17 ride near the start, and though he didn’t secure another high score, neither did Robin who finished 7.18 points short.
“I’m just stoked to be out of the wildcard rounds,” he continued. “That’s the hardest thing for me. I’ve lost to them in the last two contests, so it’s good to be against guys I surf with all year now, as I know a little more what to expect.”
Six-time world champion Kelly Slater of Florida was at his best today, posting the first perfect 10-point ride, then followed with the highest combined total to date with a 19.3 tally.
Slater topped Troy Brooks of Australia, emerging from barrel after barrel. Slater’s best ride showcased a couple of re-entries, a long floater, incredible backdoor tube ride, and another closeout floater.
“Troy is a tough competitor,” Slater said. “He’s not on the tour, but he can get the big scores and throw out huge maneuvers. You’ve got to watch out, as he might pull a ‘Superman’ like he tried in the heat.”
Local French wildcard Patrick Beven created a sensation by eliminating world no. 2 Joel Parkinson with two barrels, the first earning an 8.0 before sealing the victory with a deep inside tube that tallied a 9.33.
Mick Campbell of Austalia dominated his match against Australian Nathan Hedge, opening with a 9.17 ride before locking in a 9.5 on his righthander. Campbell finished with the second highest combined total of the day and will face Irons in round four.
Phil MacDonald eliminated 1999 world champ Mark Occhilupo by answering Occhilupo’s 7.67 ride with an 8.5 followed by a 7.83 toward the end.
Brazilian Peterson Rosa took a narrow win over Paulo Moura, fighting back against Moura’s strong start. With the win, Rosa will go up against Slater in round four tomorrow.
