Chamonix again provided the thrills of freeride, hosting the second stage of the Freeride Tour: the Nissan Russian Adventure by Swatch, initially planned to take place in Sochi/Russia, but moved to Chamonix for security reasons and difficult weather conditions. Only the men skiers and snowboarders took part of today’s contest, at the north east face of Aiguille Pourrie at the Flégère ski area. With an extremely high performance level, Candide Thovex finished second and Frenchmen Julien Lopez took victory.

The multiple X-Games medallist skier Candide Thovex is now at the top of the Freeride World Tour Ranking. Once again Candide showed us a very playful line, bouncing down the mountain. He took a more obvious line than Lopez and did not take the highest jumps but he was super fluid and executed all his airs with more speed and landed further down than the other competitors. In the end of the run he pulled off a perfect 360° (a complete rotation), taking about 20 metres of distance in the air, really spectacular!

Congratulations to Quiksilver Team Manager and Pro Snowboarder, James Stentiford, who came 3rd at the World Freeride Tour this year at Chamonix.  James decided to enter the contest on a whim.  He needed something to do that day...

"After two years of not competing I thought I should have another crack as the World Freeride Tour was coming to my home resort of Chamonix. As luck would have it they offered me a wild card into the event. Conditions were pretty perfect on the day, a load of new snow, beautiful sunshine and very cold. I felt pretty relaxed about it all until we heard on the radio that a skier had crashed and hurt himself.  After an hour delay in the freezing cold it was finally time for my run.  I was pretty happy with my run even though it didn't work out exactly as I planned due to the changing snow conditions.  I managed to stay pretty fluid and do a backside three, a stalefish over a natural hip and then hit a medium sized cliff at the bottom.  I didn't hang around to watch the other riders as the snow conditions were so good so didn't really have an idea of how I'd done.  So I was pretty stoked when they announced the result.

I've now been invited to the next event which is being held this Thursday. I guess I'll have to put off retirement for another year!"

Copyright: Nissan Freeride Chamonix Mont Blanc 2010 D Carlier

Against the beautiful backdrop of the Mont-Blanc, French Freestyle icon Candide Thovex took his first win in a Freeride World Tour event in Chamonix on 31st of January.

The 50 best freeriders on the planet put on an amazing performance in perfect weather conditions on the 500 metre “Pentes de l’Hôtel” face at the Brévent ski area in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, despite challenging snow conditions.

The most impressive run of the day was the clean victory of French freestyle legend Candide Thovex, debuting in freeride contests, announcing a promising future. After the last few days’ of snowfall the blue skies finally presented a dream like arena for the athletes and spectators of the Freeride de Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. However, the snow conditions where tricky for the competitors. A lot of the fresh powder was taken down by the first riders and parts of the face exposed rock hard snow, and at times ice. Control was decisive.

Event winner was the famous French freestyler Candide Thovex’s first Freeride World Tour contest, and with his explosive run he secured a solid victory. Thovex chose a unique line down the face, literally flying through the course at full speed, stomping several solid cliff jumps, cheered on by the excited Chamonix spectator crowd. Swedish Kaj Zackrisson is one of the veterans on the tour, and a Chamonix local since 10 years.

“I couldn’t sleep very well last night as I wasn’t really sure of my line, and I felt a lot of pressure this morning. But I went up early and got a good vision of the course. I looked for good snow and a line I could enjoy. I spotted some nice Alaska-like spines with great snow! I chose not to do some tricks and to focus on fluidity. I wanted to come down safe and sound. It has been really cool and the atmosphere is great, which was very motivating at the start. I am really happy of the victory and to share the podium with my friend Tim Dutton who soon will be at his home town in Squaw Valley. I am really motivated for the coming events!” Candide Thovex said.

2 weeks after an amazing win at Reb Bull Linecatcher in Vars (Freestyle/freeride mix event), and several years after his last contests, Candide Thovex is definitely back to business. Watch out.

Quiksilver Musician Ben Howard reached number 4 in the itunes album chart after a great performance on French TV Programme "One Shot Not" (French version of Jools Holland).  Ben Howard's EP "These Waters" was the 4th most downloaded album last week, coming just behind the Black Eyed Peas.  It's an amazing result for Ben!  He'll be on tour supporting Australian Musician Xavier Rudd across Europe this month.  

Check out www.myspace.com/benhoward for ticket info.

Tour Dates

8th Feb: Dublin Academy, Dublin

9th Feb: O2 ABC, Glasgow

11th Feb: Academy 2, Manchester

12th Feb: Princess Pavillions, Falmouth

13th Feb: 02 Shepherds Bush Empire, London

15th Feb: Ancienne Belgique, Brussels

16th Feb: Paard, Den Haag

17th Feb: Paradiso, Amsterdam

18th Feb: Effenaar, Eindhoven

20th Feb: Bataclan, Paris

21st Feb: Bierhubeli, Bern

22nd Feb: Kaufleuten, Zurich



Huscenot, who received entry into the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships as an ASP International wildcard, wowed spectators and surfers alike today, besting an in-form Jadson Andre (BRA), 19, in the hard-fought Final to claim the ASP World Junior Title.



“This is the biggest day of my life and it’s absolutely unbelievable,” Huscenot said. “It feels like I just won a heat, not the ASP World Title – it’s incredible. Jadson (Andre) is an amazing surfer and the whole Brazilian team rips so hard. I cannot believe it is my day. I am at a loss for words.”



A relative unknown at the international level prior to this year’s showdown at North Narrabeen, Huscenot bested a bevy of the world’s hottest up-and-coming surfers to take the prestigious title and emphatically announce himself as a force on the world surfing stage. 



“I knew I was not a big name coming here,” Huscenot said. “Jadson was the best surfer, doing massive air reverses that I cannot even dream of doing. But I just surfed the best I could and I guess the judges appreciated it. I never dreamed I would be here. I was injured in October and couldn’t surf for a month. But I trained hard and got the wildcard here and once I made it past the fourth round, I knew it was going to be a good event for me. It feels amazing to be the first Frenchman to claim the ASP World Junior Title.”

Check the list of invitees here: quiksilver.com/eddie

Joan Duru, despite an equal 25th place that did not make the Frenchman better his overall regional ratings’ points total, claims his maiden regional title after an exceptional year of performances and results that puts him in position to qualify for next year’s ASP World Tour at this stage.

“It’s great to get the title after such a year,” Duru said. “I am super happy to add it to my career and hopefully things keep going the same way until the end of the year for me.”

Duru, who opened his spectacular season with a win at the ASP WQS 4-Star Protest Vendee Pro in April, peaked with his career best win in the ASP WQS 6-Star Sooruz Lacanau Pro becoming the second French ever to win a major event in France, twenty-seven years after Thierry Fernandez (Lacanau, FRA).

“It was amazing to win that event in front of the French crowds and with all my family and friends around,” Duru said. “It was a great moment for me and it was really special out there.”

Considered a world class surfer by many, Joan Duru not only made big impressions at all events in Europe but managed to secure a series of solid results that have rocket him to a promising No. 9 rank on the current ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) ratings.

At 20 years of age only, the former ASP European Junior champion (2006) has been following the footsteps of European leading surfers Jeremy Flores (FRA) and Michael Picon (FRA) amongst others, the goofyfooter building a custom-made mix of explosive progressive maneuvers and massive powerhouse turns.

With two major events coming-up on the world famous North Shore of Oahu in the Hawaiian archipelago, Joan Duru will head next to Haleiwa and Sunset where he will try and seal the deal for next year’s ASP World Tour, his dream.

Since the ASP European WQS Tour ratings include all events sanctioned by ASP Europe from 1-Star to 6-Star Prime, every tour winner has been a qualifier for the Elite ASP Top 45 at the end of each season. Joan Duru is on his way…

2009 ASP EUROPEAN WQS BEST RESULTS
1st, ASP WQS 4-Star Protest Vendee Pro
9th, ASP WQS 6-Star Estoril Quiksilver Pro
3rd, ASP WQS 6-Star Prime O’Neill CWC Scotland by Swatch
5th, ASP WQS 5-Star Relentless Boardmasters
1st, ASP WQS 6-Star Sooruz Lacanau Pro
5th, ASP WQS 5-Star Movistar Ferrolterra Pantin Classic

Check the Interview on quiksilver-europe.com/tv

More info on quiksilverlive.com

SEIGNOSSE, France (Wednesday, September 23, 2009) – Round 1 and the opening four heats of Round 2 of the Quiksilver Pro France got underway today with the world's best surfers detonating in punchy three-to-four foot (1.5 metre) peaks at Les Bourdaines beachbreak.

Event No. 7 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Quiksilver Pro France was treated to some fantastic surfing throughout the opening day of the waiting period, with the world's best surfers letting loose in the playful beachbreaks while the event wildcards stamped their authority as real contenders amongst the ASP Top 45.

Dane Reynolds (USA), 23, current ASP World No. 11, is coming hot off the heals of his best results on the ASP Dream Tour, a 3rd in South Africa and a 2nd in Southern California, and continued to push the limits of high-performance surfing today at the Quiksilver Pro France.

Opening with a blistering 8.83 out of a possible 10 with some rapid-fire forehand surfing, Reynolds then fell behind fellow Venturan Nathaniel Curran (USA), 24, who posted an impressive heat total of a total 15.40 out of a possible 20. Needing a score in the dying minutes, Reynolds detonated another roping righthander for grab and 8.50 and the advancement to Round 3.

"I knew that wave was going to offer up a score for me and all I had to do was surf it as best I can," Reynolds said. "It had a good wall on it and I was able to do a few turns. It's too bad for Nathaniel (Curran) as he was surfing really, really well, but I'm sure he'll do well in his Round 2 heat."

Joel Parkinson (AUS), 28, current ASP World No. 1, suffered his first setback in an otherwise near-flawless season last event, finishing 17th in Southern California. While the media speculated that a quasi-serious ankle injury was the culprit in Parkinson's poor showing, the Australian showed no signs of injury today.

"Everyone has been talking about it (ankle injury) but I haven't really noticed it," Parkinson said. "It feels fine today and I feel like I have full movement. Obviously, I didn't have the result I wanted at the last event, but everyone has a bad one and hopefully I've gotten mine out of the way already."

With extreme tide fluctuations wreaking havoc upon the consistency of the Les Bourdaines lineup, Parkinson effortless posted excellent scores with both backhand and forehand ripping.


"It's pretty tricky out there but there are definitely some pretty fun ones coming through," Parkinson said. "It can be tricky with the tide changes. The waves looked really fun this morning, but as the tide's dropped, some of the good ones are breaking inside and the others are breaking out the back. Looking forward to a few days off now and excited to get back out there."

Julian Wilson (AUS), 20, led the wildcard charge at today's Quiksilver Pro France, besting veteran compatriots Bede Durbdige (AUS), 26, and Dean Morrison (AUS), 28, inRound 1 of competition.

"I've done a few of these events as a wildcard before and the approach of ‘just go for broke' has kind of gone out the window now. I look at these heats as opportunities to establish myself and good training against these guys. I hope to be up at this level of competition in one to two years and this is great experience."

Joining Wilsonin posting Round 1 heat wins today were fellow wildcards Joan Duru (FRA), 20, and Patrick Beven (FRA), 31.

The afternoon saw some electric surfing as Round 2 moved through the opening four heats, and some big names avoided elimination at the Quiksilver Pro France.

Following the close Round 2 victory of former ASP World Champion (2007) and current ASP World No. 2, Mick Fanning (AUS), 28, another former ASP World Champion in C.J. Hobgood (USA), 30, survived one of the most exciting heats of the year.

The current ASP World No. 3, who had all nine of his surfboards stolen his first night in France, was comboed by wildcard Alain Riou (PYF), 26, before snapping another surfboard in the powerful Les Bourdaines shorebreak. Grabbing a spare board he had never surfed before, Hobgood returned to the lineup where he proceeded to tube-ride his way out of the combination situation and to a Round 2 victory.

"We all have a breaking point and a lot of things went through my mind and I was just wondering how much worse it could get," Hobgood said. "I was comboed, my board was broken and I know my back-up one is not even that good. If the ocean didn't turn on I would have had a nervous breakdown (Laughs). But whatever, I am happy to get through that heat."

Upsets continued through the final heat of the day with journeyman campaigner Phillip MacDonald (AUS), 30, taking down current ASP World No. 3 Adriano de Souza (BRA), 22, inRound 2 of the Quiksilver Pro France. The powerful Australian man-handled the running lefthanders on his backhand, posting an impressive 16.90 out of a possible 20.

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow at 7:30am to assess conditions for a possible 8am start.

Winning the trials, Alain Riou clinches his wildcard for Quiksilver Pro France, ASP World Tour 7th stop.

The Polynesian surfer, scoring a 15,40 during the final has secured his spot for the main event.

Next call, Wednesday, at 7.30AM

Round 1:

Heat 1: Taylor Knox (USA), Ben Dunn (AUS), Jihad Khodr (BRA)
Heat 2: Bobby Martinez (USA), Josh Kerr (AUS), David Weare (ZAF)
Heat 3: Damien Hobgood (USA), Tim Reyes (USA), Nic Muscroft (AUS)
Heat 4: Taj Burrow (AUS), Heitor Alves (BRA), Drew Courtney (AUS)
Heat 5: Adriano de Souza (BRA), Michel Bourez (PYF), Luke Stedman (AUS)
Heat 6: Bede Durbidge (AUS), Dean Morrison (AUS), Phillip MacDonald (AUS)
Heat 7: C.J. Hobgood (USA), Adrian Buchan (AUS), Marlon Lipke (DEU)
Heat 8: Joel Parkinson (AUS), Kai Otton (AUS), TBA
Heat 9: Kelly Slater (USA), Mick Campbell (AUS), TBA
Heat 10: Mick Fanning (AUS), Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), TBA
Heat 11: Tom Whitaker (AUS), Chris Ward (USA), Aritz Aranburu (EUK)
Heat 12: Kieren Perrow (AUS), Roy Powers (HAW), Nathaniel Curran (USA)
Heat 13: Dane Reynolds (USA), Chris Davidson (AUS), Michael Picon (FRA)
Heat 14: Fredrick Patacchia (HAW), Jay Thompson (AUS), Tiago Pires (PRT)
Heat 15: Jordy Smith (ZAF), Tim Boal (FRA), Greg Emslie (ZAF)
Heat 16: Jeremy Flores (FRA), Dayyan Neve (AUS), Dustin Barca (HAW)

Check it out LiveWebcast on quiksilverlive.com

29^th - 30^th August 2009, Fistral Beach, Newquay

Feat: I AM GIANT (pictured) & BEN HOWARD

In the run up to the Quiksilver Surf Showdown, Quiksilver are searching for local bands to play live at the Gibson Tour Bus & Quiksessions Stage during the event. 

All local bands and solo artists can win the chance to ‘Play on the Beach'.  We're looking for up to 6 bands and the best performance over the weekend will win Quiksilver product & Gibson Guitar. 

REGISTER YOUR BAND NOW!

Go to the "Play On The Beach tab" on http://www.quiksilver-europe.com/ and register your details.

(or for the direct link click http://potb.quiksilver-europe.com/)

Local bands will be selected from this site and contacted up to 3 days before the event!

Quiksilver's Ben Howard, who recently supported Paul Weller, Fink, Xavier Rudd, and performed at this years Glastonbury, Lovebox & Boardmasters festivals, will also be live on stage.  His increasing success has followed after winning the Red Stripe Music awards, and release of his new EP "These Waters".

To complete the rock ‘n' roll experience, the Gibson Guitar Tour Bus one of only five in the world will be parked exclusively on Fistral beach and will provide a media hub, hospitality and a place to relax for Gibson's special guest artists and all surfers.

For more information on The Quiksilver Surf Showdown click www.quiksilver-europe.com

Quiksilver would like to welcome Harry to the team and congratulate him on his two recent wins the Quiksilver KOTGS held in Newquay in July and last weekend taking out the White stuff under 12's division at Watergate Bay . Harry who is only 11 years old is already showing signs of flying the flag for the next generation of young rippers coming though the ranks of British surfing.

Harry comes form St Ives a little Cornish fishing village on the rugged north coast of England is already following in the foot steps of one of his home boys Jayce Robison. Is set to have a promising career and we look forward in supporting him in the future.

Harry's next trip will be to the Quiksilver pro in September where he will be training with our UK top team riders Nathan Phipps, Toby Donachie, Luke Dillon and UK Team Manager Spencer  Hargraves. Also rubbing shoulders with 9 times world champ Kelly Slater.

So we will keep you posted on Harry's progress all the best from the Quik Crew

FISTRAL BEACH, NEWQUAY.  29^TH-30^TH AUGUST 09

8 Shops, 16 Surfers, 1 Winner

The Quiksilver Surf Showdown contest will take place on August bank holiday - 29th, 30th August 2009, Fistral Beach, Newquay.   This unique event will see 8 of the UK & Ireland's most iconic surf shops compete for the chance to win a trip to the legendary Quiksilver Pro France and a personalised Gibson Guitar, the winning pro-surfers will win £500.

2 staff from each store will be paired with 2 surfers from the UK & Ireland's finest 16 pro's including Quiksilver's Spencer Hargraves, Nathan Phillips, Aaron Reid.  Roxy will also add 8 of the UK's Pro Female Surfers to the mix.  These 8 teams will then compete over the two day contest.  Irish surf legend, Andy Hill, owner of Troggs in Portrush is amongst the invited store owners confirmed to compete, alongside cult surf stores; Northshore (Newquay), Tubes (Cork), Dive & Ski ( Jersey), Surfing Life (Plymouth), In Deep (Bude),  and others still to be confirmed

Gibson Present Quiksessions "Play on the Beach"

In the run up to the Quiksilver Surf Showdown, Quiksilver are searching for local bands to play live at the Gibson Tour Bus & Quiksessions Stage during the event. 

Quiksilver's Ben Howard, who recently supported Paul Weller, Fink, Xavier Rudd, and performed at this years Glastonbury and Lovebox festivals, will also be live on stage.  His increasing success has followed after winning the Red Stripe Music awards, and release of his new EP "These Waters".

All local bands and solo artists can win the chance to Play on the Beach.  We're looking for up to 6 bands and the best performance over the weekend will win Quiksilver product & Gibson Guitar.  Click www.quiksilver-europe.com/playonthebeach to enter from Friday 7th August or call 0207 4366800 now.  Local bands will be selected from this site and contacted 10 days before the event!

To complete the rock ‘n' roll experience, the Gibson Guitar Tour Bus one of only five in the world will be parked exclusively on Fistral beach and will provide a media hub, hospitality and a place to relax for Gibson's special guest artists and all surfers.

Sam exclaimed after winning the gold " This place is insane! I can't even speak . Where I come from it rains every day, so getting used to the heat here was really hard. I didn't think I could win, but I did my best. It feels amazing!"

Surfing trhu to the final via the repercharges heats Flores was the form surfer of the event repeatdedly posting the highest heat scores of the entire comptetion . once qualifying into the Grand Final Flores dominated his 3 opponents with a combination score of  17.12 points , the 2 sufers of USA , Ben Bourgerois and Cory Lopez and the Preuvian Gabriel Villaran were left in need of a exceptional wave to over take the Frenchman .

This win for Flores put the French team into a second place on the overall title to team America
Flores Follows on the footsteps of  CJ Hobgood (USA) winner of the previous ISA games.

Credit Photo: Billy Watts

In the final, the Team Quiksilver surfer Ramzi Boukhiam outclassed his rivals with a score of 7.90 and 9.33. With a final total of 17.23 points (out of a possible 20), including one wave judged at 9.33 (out of 10), Ramzi produced the best series of the entire competition.

At the end of the day, at the spot in Zarautz (Euskadi) and for the final series of the event, the quality of the waves improved markedly. For the first few minutes of the final, Ramzi had some trouble perfecting his moves. But with iron patience, the one they call “Ramzouille” gradually gained in confidence and performed a string of rollers, floaters and cutbacks with increasing ease and a radical style. With seven minutes to go in the series, he confirmed his victory with a wave scored at 9.33 that unmistakeably marked the pinnacle of these two days of competition. The young Moroccan richly deserved his win, having remained unbeaten over the two days of surfing. “I’ve changed the way I approach my series, and now I’m more chilled, I don’t put myself under so much pressure. I try to have fun, just let go and it works!” explained the King of the Groms 2009.

His rivals did their utmost to outsurf him, but all in vain. This year, Ramzi was just too good. Tom Neushwanger and Ian Fontaine performed very solidly at the start of the series, but didn’t get the waves they needed to try and keep up with the leader.
In the repechage table, Portugal’s Fransisco Alves and France’s Pierre Rollet saw their hopes of making it through to the final of the main leaderboard slip away. Ian Fontaine and Tom Neushwanger were able to make the most of every one of their waves, giving their two pursuers little chance. The patience shown by Pierre Rollet, waiting for the right wave to arrive, was ultimately to no avail.
Following this final, World Top 45 surfer Aritz Aranburu and the King of the Groms riders performed an expression session for the spectators. For 30 dazzling minutes, all the surfers let their imagination run free, thrilling the big crowd gathered on the beach at Zarautz. Afterwards, Tahiti’s Kevin Bourez emerged victorious with an ollie pop.
Crowned by the competition sponsor Aritz Aranburu, Ramzi will have a major card to play in the International Final. The reward is a wildcard to compete in the trials for the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast 2010 and the Quiksilver Pro France 2010.
This evening from 10pm at the Place Munoa square in Zarautz, there will be a special DJ set with Mahara McKay. Later, at 11pm, France’s Joan Duru and Dimitri Ouvré will join Australian Craig Andreson to light up Zarautz for the Quiksilver Air-Show - a unique night-time surfing spectacle, that will see the riders towed out by jetskis, performing aerial moves.
Then at midnight, Helltrip are set to rock the living daylights of the Place Munoa!

King of the Groms final - results
1st: Ramzi Boukhiam (Fra)
2nd: Tom Neushwanger (Fra)
3th: Ian Fontaine (Fra)
4th: William Alliotti (Gua)

The 1st round was shock-free, with strong title contenders Ramzi Boukhiam (Fra), Ian Fontaine (Fra), Pierre Rollet (Fra) and Fransisco Alves (Port) all easily booking their places in round 2.

The competition format includes a repechage table, giving the third and fourth place surfers in each series from the main leaderboard the chance to stay alive in the contest and potentially rejoin the main contenders for the final phases. In the 2nd round, the wave conditions improved with the incoming tide. And the surprises – both good and not so good - started to flow thick and fast.

Rounds 1 and 2 saw Ramzi Boukhiam, of Moroccan descent, set the bar very high. Performing solidly, with plenty of air and some radical moves, Ramzi forced his rivals to up the ante right from the start of round 2. He was facing some pretty tough competition, with Portuguese surfer Fransisco Alves making a great start to the event. With the best wave and the best combination of the first round, Fransisco remains a serious challenger for the main event. In round 2, he consolidated his position by taking the second best wave score, just behind Ramzi Boukhiam. Pierre Rollet, another with big hopes going into the European Final, was forced to go through repechage and is now in the secondary table. Having had a torrid time throughout the series, Pierre eventually hauled himself into 2nd place with barely three minutes left, only to see it snatched away in the dying seconds by countryman Gary Landais with his very last wave. In the repechage round, Pierre won his series easily. Though still in the race, he'll have to produce a string of top performances to get back into the main event. Ian Fontaine, another seed, was also relegated to the repechage table after a difficult series that pitted him against another of the favourites, Kevin Bourez. Local hopeful, 13-year-old Imanol Yeregui, really got the spot rocking. Cheered on by a partisan crowd, the youngster didn't let them down, and showed he can mix it with the older guys. The Basque surfer is still in with a shout in the repechage table.

Tomorrow, the surfers will head to the competition spot at 8am for the final phases. In the evening, the European grom king will be crowned, and he and the runner-up will book their tickets to the international final of the King of the Groms. After the award ceremony, from 10pm on the Place Munoa in Zarautz, there will be a special DJ set with Mahara McKay, followed by the Quiksilver Air Show. The night will end with a concert by Helltrip.

Round 2 results
Heat 1: William Alliotti (Gua) 12.50pts, Gary Landais (Fra) 8.03pts, Pierre Rollet (Fra) 7.20pts, Rui Henriques (Port) 6.54pts.
Heat 2: Ramzi Boukhiam (Fra) 14.66pts, Fransisco Alves (Port) 12.30pts, Andy Crière (Fra) 6.70pts, Imanol Yeregui (Spa) 5.60pts.
Heat 3: Paul Cesar Distinguin (Fra) 11.50pts, Kevin Bourez (Fra) 10.94pts, Ian Fontaine (Fra) 10.47pts, Gaminde Txaber (Spa) 8.03.
Heat 4: Jordan Oueslati (Gua) 9.43pts, Gaspard Larsonneur (Fra) 9.17pts, Roberto D'Amico (Ita) 6.80pts, Tom Neushwanger (Fra) 5.90pts.

Round 1 results
Heat 1: William Alliotti (Gua) 10.60pts, Gary Landais (Fra) 7.44pts, Natxo Gonzales (Spa) 7.10pts, Julen Eguiguren (Spa) 6.10pts.
Heat 2: Pierre Rollet (Fra) 10.50pts, Rui Henrique (Por) 10.33pts, Ivan Gonzales (Spa) 4.04pts, Ethan Eguiguren (Spa) 3.57pts.
Heat 3: Fransisco Alves (Port) 12.40pts, Imanol Yeregui (Spa) 6.17pts, Emilien Lojou (Fra) 5.47pts, Maquire Conor (Irl) 3.57pts.
Heat 4: Ramzy Boukhiam (Fra) 8.90pts, Andy Crière (Fra) 7.17pts, Alex Vibert (Uk) 4.90pts, Valerio Giorgi (Ita) 1.27pts.
Heat 5: Ian Fontaine (Fra) 11.34pts, Paul César Distinguin (Fra) 7.93pts, Miles Lee Hargraves (Uk) 4.90pts, Achile Kindt (Bel) 3.34pts.
Heat 6: Kevin Bourez (Fra) 8.10pts, Txaber Gaminde (Spa) 7.13pts, Thomas Fernandes (Por) 2.50pts, Freddie Seymour (Uk) 2.26pts.
Heat 7: Gaspard Larsonneur (Fra) 7.13pts, Roberto D'Amico (Ita) 4.50pts, Josu Alcantara Gran (Spa) 4.50pts, Jobe Harris (Uk) 4.26pts.
Heat 8: Jordan Oueslati (Gua) 11.50pts, Tom Neushwanger (Fra) 8.84pts, Javier Asciano (Spa) 5.50pts, Mikel Zamakona (Spa) 3.80pts.

Reperchage 2 results
Heat 1: Pierre Rollet (Fra) 9.56pts, Rui Henrique (Port) 6.50pts, Natxo Gonzales (Spa) 5.63pts, Julen Eguiguren (Spa) 5.33pts,
Heat 2 : Imanol Yeregui (Spa) 7.03pts, Emilien Lojou (Fra) 6.60pts, Andy Crière (Fra) 6.20pts, Alex Vibert (Uk) 5.13pts.
Heat 3: Ian Fontaine (Fra) 12.17pts, Txaber Gaminde (Spa), Miles Lee Hargraves (Uk) 5.27pts, Thomas Fernandes (Por), Miles Hargraves (Uk).
Heat 4: Tom Neushwanger (Fra) 8.93pts, Javier Asclano (Spa) 8.20pts, Roberto D'amico (Ita) 6.16pts, Mikel Zamakona (Spa) 4.06pts

Reperchage 1 results
Heat 1 : Natxo Gonzales (Spa) 8.20pts, Julen Eguiguren (Spa) 7.17pts, Ivan Gonzales (Spa) 6.86pts, Ethan Eguiguren (Spa) 6.30pts.
Heat 2: Emilien Lojou (Fra) 11.66pts, Alex Vibert (Uk) 9.33pts, Maquire Conor (Irl) 3.70pts, Valerio Giorgi (Ita) 0.00pts.
Heat 3: Thomas Fernandes (Por) 8.60pts, Miles Lee Hargraves (Uk 5.17pts, Freddie Seymour (Uk) 4.67pts, Achile Kindt (Bel) 2.50pts.
Heat 4: Javier Asciano (Spa) 9.03pts, Mikel Zamakona (Spa) 8.50pts, Josu Alcantara Gran (Spa) 8.27pts, Jobe Harris (Uk) 5.47pts.

Quiksilver the boardsports, lifestyle brand, has launched the ultimate Unsigned music search this autumn in conjunction with Gibson Guitars and MySpace. The search is now live! Quiksilver will be on the look out to find the best music talent that the UK & Ireland have to offer. Quiksilver are searching for a mix of talented Bands, Solo artists and an enigmatic rock chick who can either be the front woman of a band or a dynamic female solo artist*.

The winners will be rewarded with the official title of ‘Quiksessions Unsigned Ambassador‘ and will be invited to play in front of surf royalty at the Quiksilver Pro France WCT surf event (Hossegor, France) taking place on 23^rd September.  Other engagements will include the Tony Hawk Show (Paris, France), launch parties, and film premieres such as ‘Cloud 9' starring Quiksilver's ninth time World Surfing Champion, Kelly Slater. As if that wasn't enough you will also receive £500 worth of Quiksilver clothing each season.

All you need to do to enter is log onto Quiksessions Unsigned at www.myspace.com/quiksessionsunsigned and submit a short clip of you or your band performing your favourite song. All videos will be put into a ‘best of' video playlist which will be updated on a weekly basis and will remain onsite until the competition closes on 14^th September 2009.

Once Quiksilver and the judges have picked out a shortlist the semi finalists will be contacted and asked to upload another one minute video, answering a set of questions about themselves for the next stage of the competition. The winners will be chosen based on their musical ability and personalities.

If you want to become part of Quiksessions music, upload your details NOW!

More actions on Belly's Blog

Credit: ASP/CI/CESTARY via GETTY IMAGE

Event No. 4 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Hang Loose culminated in a dramatic finale with perennial ASP World Title threats all pushing one other towards the finish line.

Despite the Brazilian smashing his way out to an early lead, Slater found his form mid-heat with a 9.27 out of a possible 10 for a series of high-risk maneuvers, exhibiting a near-perfect variety of repertoire. Not satisfied with only one high score, Slater nailed the coffin shut with an 8.67 in a dying minutes to secure his 41st ASP World Tour victory. “There were much better waves in the Final than there were for my Semifinal,” Slater said. “Adriano (de Souza) found a pretty good rhythm early on and posted some pretty good scores, but I felt comfortable out there and felt that the waves would come to me if I were patient. Both of my scoring rides allowed me to a bunch of maneuvers and I felt that the scores were maybe a little high, but I haven’t had many good scores this year, so it was bound to go my way at some point.”

Nearly pulling out of both the Hang Loose Santa Catarina Pro and the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay altogether, Slater made a last-minute decision to come to Brazil for the fans, but his journey here was riddled with delayed flights, visa complications and missing baggage. After a Round 1 loss on a borrowed board, the Slater juggernaut built momentum throughout the event, riding everything from self-shaped, asymmetrical quad-fins to epoxies to his bread and butter performance boards.

“I definitely feel like I sharpen as the event moves into the later rounds,” Slater said. “I started out pretty slow in Brazil, and I wasn’t even planning on coming initially. I rode borrowed boards, ones that I shaped, epoxies, everything and I definitely think I found my formula today. I actually called my girlfriend before the Final and said, ‘every time I show up to an event after trying to pull out, I win.’ I guess that held true today. I have less pressure on myself and am free to perform to the best of my abilities.”

Slater’s win today breaks his worst slump ever as an ASP World Tour campaigner, three 17ths in three events in 2009, and rockets the Floridian from 25th to No. 9 on the ASP World Tour ratings. Although a mountain of challenges still stand between Slater and an unprecedented 10th ASP World Title, today’s victory has re-ignited the competitive fire for him.

“I feel like I have all those guys (ASP World Title contenders) right where I want them,” Slater said. “I don’t feel like I have any pressure on me, and I tend to do my best when I have no pressure. We’re coming up on Jeffreys Bay, which is probably my best event historically and hopefully I can build off my result here today.”
Next stop on the 2009 ASP World Tour will be the Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay in South Africa from July 9 – 19, 2009.

For more information, log onto www.aspworldtour.com

HANG LOOSE SANTA CATARINA PRO FINAL RESULTS:
1 – Kelly Slater (USA) 17.94
2 – Adriano de Souza (BRA) 14.67

HANG LOOSE SANTA CATARINA PRO SEMIFINAL RESULTS:
SF 1: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 14.97 def. Joel Parkinson (AUS) 13.86
SF 2: Kelly Slater (USA) 12.16 def. C.J. Hobgood (USA) 6.93

HANG LOOSE SANTA CATARINA PRO QUARTERFINAL RESULTS:
QF 1: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 12.67 def. Bede Durbidge (AUS) 11.33
QF 2: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 16.73 def. Dustin Barca (HAW) 13.04
QF 3: Kelly Slater (USA) 13.60 def. Taj Burrow (AUS) 13.17
QF 4: C.J. Hobgood (USA) 12.87 def. Mick Fanning (AUS) 9.17

HANG LOOSE SANTA CATARINA PRO ROUND 4 RESULTS:
Heat 1: Bede Durbidge (AUS) 16.90 def. Damien Hobgood (USA) 13.50
Heat 2: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 13.60 def. Jeremy Flores (FRA) 10.00
Heat 3: Dustin Barca (HAW) 11.17 def. Bobby Martinez (USA) 8.80
Heat 4: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 14.66 def. Kekoa Bacalso (HAW) 13.33
Heat 5: Taj Burrow (AUS) 13.20 def. Tim Reyes (USA) 12.33
Heat 6: Kelly Slater (USA) 17.10 def. Tom Whitaker (AUS) 11.67
Heat 7: C.J. Hobgood (USA) 13.84 def. Mick Campbell (AUS) 13.16
Heat 8: Mick Fanning (AUS) 12.20 def. Chris Ward (USA) 8.14

CURRENT ASP WORLD TOUR TOP 10:
1 – Joel Parkinson (AUS) 3876 pts
2 – Adriano de Souza (BRA) 3206 pts
3 – C.J. Hobgood (USA) 3072 pts
4 – Taj Burrow (AUS) 3050 pts
5 – Mick Fanning (AUS) 2940 pts
6 – Bobby Martinez (USA) 2625 pts
7 – Tom Whitaker (AUS) 2532 pts
8 – Jordy Smith (ZAF) 2486 pts
9 – Kelly Slater (USA) 2430 pts
10 – Damien Hobgood (USA) 2342 pts

DATE:   20^th - 21^st June

Despite average conditions of 3ft waves and an overcast setting there was a great turn out of Groms for this years Irish King of the Groms. For the first time in Rossnowlagh, Quiksilver registered 60 enthrusiastic groms - which goes to show's that Irish surfing is on the up!  Quiksilver Pro Surfer Spencer Hargraves has been managing the UK KOTGS Series to seek out new young talent for Quiksilver; "It's always a pleasure working with the ISA and a great location for the KOTGS. It was flat for three weeks before this event so great to have some surf  for the event!"

Madden who won the KOTGS (ireland) last year and went on to compete in France was unlucky with the waves this year. In the dyeing seconds he was piped at the post by young ripper Coner Maquire who is now taking the trip to Spain. In the Under 14's Gearoid Mc Daid won hands down and would have been a favourite for the U 16's.  It was a great contest see you at Fistral.

Interview with Coner Maquire: 

1. How does it fee l to win the KOTG ? I am so happy to win such a big event like this at my home beach with all my school friends watching.

2. You are off to Spain to compete in the KOTGS with some of the best surfers in Europe. Have you been outside of Ireland surfing?  Not to Spain so l cant wait and to surf against some of the best in Europe it's amazing. Also  Jeremy Flores is one of my favourite surfers in the world so it would be great to see him surf in France.

3. Favourite manoeuvre? Tail slide because when l have lots of speed its really easy to push the tail out.

4. Paces where you would like to surf in the world ? I would really like to go to Hawaii one day and surf pipeline and also the super bank where Joel and Mick fanning come from looks sick!!

Ranking :  16's

1. Maquire, Conor

2. Logue, Gan

3. Madden, Iaron

Check it out all episodes on www.quiksilver-europe.com

Broadcast schedule for the Euroforce World Tour 2008/2009:

Episode One – Review of the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast 2008 - 21 February 2009
Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast 2009 episode broadcast - 14 March 2009

Bells Beach (Aus) 2008 episode broadcast – 1 April 2009
Bells Beach (Aus) 2009 episode broadcast – 21 April 2009

Teahupoo, Taiarapu (Tah) 2008 episode broadcast – 2 May 2009
Teahupoo, Taiarapu (Tah) 2009 episode broadcast – 23 May 2009

Fiji 2008 episode broadcast – 20 June 2009

Santa Catarina (Bra) 2009 episode broadcast – 8 July 2009

Jeffreys Bay (RSA) 2008 episode broadcast – 2 July 2009
Jeffreys Bay (RSA) 2009 episode broadcast – 22 July 2009

Bali 2008 episode broadcast – 10 August 2009

Trestles (USA) 2008 episode broadcast – 6 September 2009
Trestles (USA) 2009 episode broadcast – 22 September 2009

Quiksilver Pro France 2008 episode broadcast – 16 September 2009
Quiksilver Pro France 2009 episode broadcast – 7 October 2009

Brazil 2008 episode broadcast – 12 October 2009

Mundaka (Euk/Spa) 2008 episode broadcast – 28 September 2009
Mundaka (Euk/Spa) 2009 episode broadcast – 20 October 2009

Somewhere 2009 episode broadcast – 1 November 2009

Hawaii 2008 episode broadcast – 21 November 2009
Hawaii 2009 episode broadcast – 23 December 2009

The under 14s was dominated by Ben Bates who has won this event for the second time in this age group.

The under 12s, after a weeks training in France during half term put up a good display with both Hayden Bishop and Aaron Rowe getting some snappy turns in. Max Bennett 5yrs with help from mum, Jo, also showed solid control and was able to change direction, which impressed the judges.

Thanks for the sponsor Quiksilver for laying on the event and for the Watersplash for all the catering.

INTERVIEW WITH ALEX:

Alex how do you feel after your win ? so happy it's the biggest conteast ive won to date and cant wait to go to France and Spain for the European KOTGS and surf with some of the best in Europe.

What  was the surf like for the event ? it was flat on Saturday but we did a Ion man event which was great fun. Then on Sunday there were small but fun waves l didn't think l would win up against Matt Chapman and Nathan Elms but l did and am so happy.

Any Good music that got you pumped for the day ? King's of Leon they rock and M&M always gets me fired up !

Well good luck in Spain anywhere else in the world you would like to surf ? Hawaii one day Pipeline and the super bank in Australia looks amazing! Mick and Parko are my hero's  love the way they surf .

Ranking :

1. Alex Vibert                               

2. Freddie Seymour                          

3. Nathan Elms                                   

Screening schedule: Click here

Credit photo: www.aspworldtour.com

Credit Photo : www.aspworldtour.com

QUIKSILVER Welsh Nationals 2009

Swansea’s Lloyd Cole and Beth Mason bothtook home their respective titles in this year’s QUIKSILVER Welsh Nationals. Inthe Women’s final Beth Mason lead the way and surfed some critical lefthandersto take the title. In the Open, Lloyd’s surfing had flowed throughout the eventand this continued in the final with him nailing two big scores making the Opentitle his for the 3rd time.

After last year’s amazing weather and wavesall at WSF headquarters were bracing themselves this year for a weekend ofhowling onshore gales and rain. Surely we had cashed in ‘luck’ vouchers lastyear …. hadn’t we? Maybe not……someone had had a word with somebody somewherebecause once again forecasts for both weather and waves looked fantastic ….well, at least for Saturday and Sunday… !

Saturday dawned with a chill in the air butthe predicted swell had arrived at Freshwater West right on cue with solid4-5ft, glassy waves breaking into Middle Bay. The contest kicked off at 9.00amwith the ten 1st round Open heats running on twin peaks simultaneously sharingthe Middle Bay arena for an electric start to the contest.

As is so often the case when the swell isoverhead at Fresh West the paddle-out is long and un-forgiving. This no doubtcontributed to a few early round upsets as no one was exempt from Fresh's furyas we saw last years finalists and favourites Greg Owen and Harry Cromwelleliminated early, leaving the door open for some new faces to enter the fold.With the tide pushing in and the swell continuing to build Middle Bay providedthe Open surfers with solid walls in which to perform and a natural amphitheatreoffering spectators a ring side ticket to all the action. Llantwit’s StevePhillips was turning heads with his new school approach, whilst Pembroke's RyanThomas was in giant killing mode beating Owen, Cole and Kibblewhite on route tothe quarters.

With the Open given a well earned breatherit was the Juniors turn to showcase their skills with local lad Jack Crispleading the charge with some committed surfing along with Josh Hughes who wascertainly looking like the man to beat. Attention shifted from the youngstersto the Women's event, so often over looked when the waves are pumping in favourof the men, director Bateman was keen to put our girls through their paces andtest their metal in proper waves. To their great credit the girls put in plentyof effort, Olivia Jones typifying the commitment leaving the water bloodied andshaken and forced to retired hurt. Once again it was British Champ Jo Dennisonand Beth Mason who led the charge with typical gutsy displays. Open Round 3 hitthe water late on in the day. What seemed like some of the best waves of theday saw current champ Cole came up against Vaughan and Newquay based Welsh GromJosh Hughes, who was surfing in his 5th heat of the day! The guys went to towntaking apart the left handers on their forehands with a series of high scoringwaves that saw Cole and Vaughan progress at the expense of Hughes who onlynarrowly missed out. A fitting end to an action packed day of good surfing.

Sunday began as Saturday finished. Finesunny weather and good waves at Freshwater West, although the north-west breezewas taking the edge off temperatures reminding us all it was still early May.

Having studied the charts it was clear thatMonday offered little in the way of quality waves and certainly the potentialfor heavy rain making the 3ft sets on offer on Sunday all the more appealing.The call was made to complete the event by running two peaks for most of theday, which although hard graft for the officials certainly made"surf" sense. 

Nine other categories had their firsttaster of competition, with the very young and the very old all keen to stakeclaims as title contenders. With so many heats happening at the same time it’salmost impossible to recall all the action. Standouts include Ryan Tomas, LukeCromwell, Max Payne, Tom Good and Rob Webster Blyth but everyone can be proudof their performances in the testing conditions at Freshwater.

 A fitting moment to the whole contest perhaps was when theGroms U12 final paddled out on the north peak as the Masters final paddled outon the south peak. With only 50yards or so separating 50 years of surfingexperience all the hard work over the weekend seemed very worthwhile.

For one young lady this year’s event was aparticularly special moment. Having missed last years event due to "thathead injury" as well as missing the European Championships, Gwen Spurlockwas more determined than ever to prove she was back to her best which she didin spectacular style taking out the Girls U18 title.

 The U18 Boys had been some what of a headache from the startwith only the slightest margins separating one from the other. With Schofield,Tucker, Reimnitz, Crisp, Good and Hughes all pushing the performance bar upwith every heat, it was a right old tussle. In the end it was Josh Hughes whoout performed the rest with his powerful style suited perfectly to the head highlefts.

 The Women's final saw a three pronged Pembs shot at the titlefrom last years champ Jo Dennison, Siwan Rees and Joanne McHugh hoping to seeoff lone Swansea lass Beth Mason. The low tide sand bars of middle bay wasserving up some sucky long walls to the South ideal for the goofy footedDennison and Mason to go about smashing with their powerful styles. Rees andMcHugh opted for the North rights which proved their undoing as Mason andDennison picked up the consistently higher scores. In the final few minutesMason picked up a left that allowed her to perform a series of solid turnscompleted by a final re-entry that saw her wrestle the crown from Dennison.

The Open final followed a similar patternto that of the Women, with Cole and Vaughan opting to sit further south andMorris and Phillips heading north. Vaughanie got off to a flyer smashing a longleft with trade mark gouges which he quickly backed up with another similarride. Morris and Phillips also started strongly whipping the crowd into frenzywith some smart surfing, before Cole joined the party opting to take thecleaner inside runners. As the final progressed Phillips just couldn't findanother to keep his momentum going and finished up 4th.

Morris perhaps had the greatest opportunityto snatch the title picking off a bomb that clearly caught him in two minds.Having failed to fully capitalize on the first section a short tube followed;he then went for broke with a big close out re-entry but unfortunately Rhysfailed to complete. Vaughanie having got off to a quick start went and satpatiently out the back hoping to build upon his tally, but it wasn't to be asthe set he'd been waiting for caught him out of position and out of therunning. In the end it was Cole's smarter approach, flowing surfing andcommitted turns that sealed the deal. Having started slowly, Cole snuck into atasty one right under the nose of Vaughan taking it to the cleaners with afinal close-out reo landed right at the feet of the judges ensuring the titleremains in the Cole household for another year.

The award presentation began as twilightdescended upon another stunning weekend at Freshwater West. The local residentsea otter even decided to join the crowd to witness the crowning of this year’schampions.

Amongst the champions two special trophieswere awarded, first up was the Matthew Dyson ‘Surfer of the Contest’ award.Rhys Morris of Swansea took this home and seemed a very popular choice judgingby the massive cheer and applause from the crowd.

Legend Fluff, Shane Thomas and Jude Ryderfrom Pembrokeshire Surf Club awarded the Paul Ryder trophy to local surfer,Jack Crisp. Fluff gave a very stirring speech about the legend that is PaulRyder who sadly passed away last year. The trophy is a fitting reminder to anamazing surfer and a great personality who is missed by everyone involved inWelsh surfing.

As the sun finally set all that was left todo was to thank all those who helped to make the event possible with specialmention to Quiksilver – Liam O’Shea and Meena Rajput. The National Trust andPembrokeshire Coast National Park for the use of the beach. The WSF’s ErylMason, Stuart Bentley, Tom Anderson, Mark Vaughan, Lloyd Cole, Alison and DaveWilliams. All of our judges  andthose who mucked in to assist with the second peak, with special thanks to TonySampson and Head Judge Bob Freshwater. And finally contest director JamieBateman who once again gave up hours of his time for everyone else when he’drather have been surfing.

Results

OPEN

1. Lloyd Cole
2. Mark Vaughan
3. Rhys Morris
4. Steve Phillips    

WOMEN                                       
1. Beth Mason
2. Jo Dennison
3. Siwan Rees
4. JoanneMcHugh

SENIORS                                                     
1. Greg Owen
2. Chris Seage
3. Tom Anderson
4. Lee Morgan

MASTERS
1. SimonTucker
2. Brad Hockridge
3. Colin Bright
4. Andrew Pelosi

BODYBOARD                                                        
1. Mark Griffiths
2. Jack Hughes
3. James McGregor
4. Tom Hammett

LONGBOARD
1. Elliott Dudley
2. Huw Bentley
3. Martin John
4. Rob Webster-Blythe
5. Steve Horn

JUNIOR U18
1. Josh Hughes
2. Tom Good
3. Jack Crisp
4. Adam Reimnitz

 GIRLSU18
1. Gwen Spurlock
2. Olivia Jones
3. Mali James
4. Grace Roberts

LONGBOARD U18
1. Huw Bentley
2. Rhys Poulton
3.  Will Pountney

CADETU16
1. Tom Good
2. Max Tucker
3. Josh Hammett
4. OwainBancroft

YOUTH U14
1. Jack Davies
2. Dan Bresnan
3. Nathaniel James
4. Will Pountney

GROMU12
1. Max Payne
2. Aaron Bright
3. Ceiran Hughes
4. Owen Alexander

This event showed that new generation is stronger than ever. The fourth place went to José Ferreira (16 years old) that reachs as Vasco his first Open final.

Justin Mujica, the venezuelan surfer living in Portugal for years, national champion in 1999, win the TMN pro final.
The waves had 0,5/1m, Justin was the best athlete from the beginning, showing a high surf level and good maneuvers.Alexandre Ferreira "Xaninho" was second, marking his return to the comp.


Final Results TMN Pro:

1st - Justin Mujica
2nd - Alexandre Ferreira
3rd - Vasco Ribeiro (Quiksilver)
4th - José Ferreira

Ben wowed the 1600 strong audience at Kentish Town's 'Forum' with his "cracking lyrics, pitch perfect songs and exceptional guitar skills."

Ben defeated some 200 bands from around the UK en route to the final and was awarded 3 slots at leading festivals including The Great Escape.

A spokes person from Red Stripe said "you have to admire the innovative, Ben Howard, who uses his guitar to build swirling, percussive beats around plaintive plucking and melancholic vignettes."

It is real exciting times for 21 year old Ben who got to showcase his talents before a panel of music industry experts.  His impressive live performances have helped attract the attention of record labels on both sides of the Atlantic.

Ben recently toured with Austrailian instrumentalist Xavier Rudd and is working closely with leading surf brand Quiksilver, playing at all their European events.

To check out Ben's tunes, tour dates and videos please visit www.myspace.com/benjaminjohnhoward

For press and general enquiries contact owaindavies@gmail.com

* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ig65hl9XAZs

Photo courtesy of Mike Searle / Carve Magazine

Ben: I was born in Middlesex, i now live in sunny Falmouth. 

How did music come into your life?

Ben: I'd say it was probably through my mum. I must have spent 8 or 9 of my younger years listening to her singing and playing the guitar, plus there was always music on in the house like Bruce Springstein, Neil Young and John Martin. A lot of great singer songwriters.

Who or what inspires you to write music?

Ben: John Martin. Definately. His music is incredible. I think you are always influenced by so many different types of music but don't always realise. Its amazing how many different artists you listen to but you're not always aware that the music's being absorbed. The countryside is a massive inspiration too. When i first moved from London to the country, it was a really big shift, a nice shift and that's why i sing about it alot. I like to write about the people i meet or those that have made an impact on my life. My parents come up quite a lot, i guess they've taught me a few things! I love the outdoors, i'm not a big fans of trains and lots of people but i am warming to the London ways!

Who is the person you admire the most?

Ben: Gabe Davies, for sure. He's done so much in the surfing world and has achieved some pretty incredible things but still remains as the most genuine and kind person around in the industry.

How would you describe your music?

Ben: I guess it's sort of acoustic ballads with some percussive guitar and gnarly growling thrown in for good measure.

Describe your clothing style.

Ben: Hoodies, jeans & t shirts. Casual as possible.

Dress code for a night out?

Ben: Hoody, jeans and t shirt... (small pause) Maybe a clean hoody, jeans and t shirt!

Describe yourself in 3 words:

Ben: Yeah, umm... (long pause) Introverted, outgoing, keen. That's going to confuse some people!

What's your favourite quote?

Ben: "Green eyes, green like the sea, pity the one that sees them and doesn't know how to swim." I think it's spanish?

What would you do if you didn't sing?

Ben: If i didn't sing i'd probably hum. No, i'd whistle.

You recently supported Xavier Rudd on his European tour, how was it?

Ben: It was amazing. Xavier is such a nice guy and it was nice to get the opportunity to chill out with him when we weren't performing. The crowds were good too, you could hear a pin drop when i was on stage, the respect they had was just incredible.

Plans for the future? Anything else coming up?

Ben: Just to keep doing what i'm doing really. Making music and getting some more gigs through Quiksilver and hopefully play some tunes on the pro surf tour. 

Check out Ben's videos, listen to his tunes and check out new tour dates for 2009 @ www.myspace.com/benjaminjohnhoward

PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Searle / Carve

Credit Photo: Hilleman / ASP

ESTORIL, Guincho, Portugal (Sunday, April 19, 2009) - Marc Lacomare (Hossegor, FRA), 18, claimed the ASP Grade-2 Estoril B! Pro Junior today at Guincho, back-up venue of the 2009 edition where consistent wind-blown three to five foot (1 to 1.5 meter) waves were breaking for the final day of competition. Lacomare, who came out on top of four consecutive battles to take top honours on the final day, defeated Joachim Guichard (DNK), 18, in a thirty-minute decider to clinch 1500 ratings' points and take the lead of the 2009 ASP European Junior ratings.

Marc Lacomare, who was coming straight from an equal 3rd finish in the ASP WQS 4-Star event in France, used his building confidence with great tactics throughout the three-day competition, the French wunderkind finishing his victorious run with the highest wave score of the event, an impressive 9.67 point ride during his Semifinal, a good indicator of Lacomare's current form.

"To win that event is another great step and I am really happy to take the win today," Lacomare said. "The waves were hard, the wind was so strong and it wasn't easy out there so I am definitely happy with that 8.17 ride I got. I injured one of my ankles a bit before coming here and I felt a small pain during the event but I was able to push my surfing and get big scores."

Lacomare, who confirms his excellent form with this win, will now compete in the ASP WQS 6-Star Estoril Quiksilver Pro event starting Tuesday, April 21, on Estoril's surf coast.

"I've been on a good roll for the last couple of weeks and I feel really good before starting in the WQS event coming-up," Lacomare said. "Getting two results in a row definitely helps my confidence and I hope I can keep that good karma going next week. I am so stoked right now and enjoying the surf a lot."

Estoril B! Pro Junior runner-up Joachim Guichard (DNK), 18, was left in need of an 8.67 ride to catch-up with Lacomare's 13.50 point overall heat score and could not find any good scoring potential wave to reach his target and win the event. Guichard, who had to defeat his twin brother Luka in Semifinal No. 1 to advance through to his first ever ASP Pro Junior final, goes home with 1290 ratings' points giving him a solid base to start with for his 2009 ASP European Junior Top 10 campaign.

"Marc (Lacomare) got that 8.17 right at the start and kept the lead all the way through to the end of the final," Guichard said. "It is an excellent result for me, my best ever, and I am happy with that runner-up finish. I will now build on this to try and reach the Top 10 at the end of the year before going on the ASP WQS and take my chance."

Guichard, whose finish rockets him to No. 2 on the regional ratings, will take part in the upcoming Estoril Quiksilver Pro as well where he will be an outsider to count with when he paddles out against some the world's best surfers.

French young gun from Bidart David Leboulsh (FRA), 18, suffered Lacomare's unstoppable form and finished equal 3rd in Semifinal No. 2, still his best result to date and very promising towards his comeback on tour. Leboulsh, despite an average 7.26 point heat score due to his lefthanders' choice, will definitely be much awaited when the tour recommences next July.

"I am a bit disappointed because I did not show any good surf during that heat against Marc (Lacomare)," Leboulsh said. "I thought the lefthanders would give me some good potential to score but it kept closing out while Marc was ripping and I could not answer back."

Leboulsh, who started his career when he was fifteen, pulled back from the tour for the last couple of years focusing on school but the young man secures a strong result in the Estoril B! Pro Junior showing he is ready to get back with serious intentions.

"I had a couple of good results when I was younger on tour and I am definitely coming back in 2009," Leboulsh said. "It is one of my last years as a junior so I am aiming at the Top 5 on the ratings. That result is definitely a keeper so I'll go with it and I am looking forward to surfing again this summer."

Joachim Guichard's twin Luka (DNK) was stopped by his brother on his way to the final, Luka needing a second good wave to keep any hopes alive towards his first ASP Pro Junior final. Luka, who has been following closely his brother's progression in the last couple of years, was not able to find the better waves during the encounter and takes an equal 3rd finish for his 2009 ASP European Pro Junior campaign.

"The lefthanders were definitely harder with the strong wind blowing side-shore and I was not really in reach of the win," Luka Guichard said. "Joachim is more powerful surfer and that made the difference on the set waves when pushing the turns hard. I am stoked for him and that equal 3rd is a great start to the year."

Luka, whose best result before today was an equal 5th in the ASP Grade-1 Pro Junior event in Amado, Portugal last year, bettered his career best and secures a serious confidence boost before the 2009 tour gets back into business in July.

"This is my best finish ever and it is an excellent start for my last year as a junior," Luka Guichard said. "My brother and I are aiming at a Top 10 finish this year then take our chance on the ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) and see how things go."

News, photos, results and LIVE scoring are available through http://www.quiksilverlive.com

ESTORIL B! PRO JUNIOR RESULTS
Final
1st Marc Lacomare (FRA) 13.50 pts
2nd Joachim Guichard (DNK) 9.10 pts

Semifinals
Heat 1: Joachim Guichard (DNK) 12.67 pts Def. Luka Guichard (DNK) 8.70 pts
Heat 2: Marc Lacomare (FRA) 16.84 pts Def. David Leboulsh (FRA) 7.26 pts

Quarterfinals
Heat 1: Joachim Guichard (DNK) 10.40 pts Def. Marcos Sansegundo (EUK) 7.50 pts
Heat 2: Luka Guichard (DNK) 12.66 pts Def. Medi Veminardi (REU) 11.77 pts
Heat 3: David Leboulsh (FRA) 15.17 pts Def. Joan Duru (FRA) 13.16 pts
Heat 4: Marc Lacomare (FRA) 12.67 pts Def. Alejo Muniz (BRA) 10.83 pts

2009 ASP EUROPEAN JUNIOR TOP 5
No. 1, Marc Lacomare (FRA)
No. 2, Joachim Guichard (DNK)
No. 3, Luka Guichard (DNK)
No. 3, David Leboulsh (FRA)
No. 5, Medi Veminardi (REU)

Results Final U18:

1. Dean Bowen (AUS) - 17.60 Pts

2. Miguel Pupo (BRA) - 15.06 Pts

3. Maxime Huscenot (FRA) - 13.28 Pts

4. Dylan Goodale (HAW) - 11.18

Credits Photos: Watts et Lobo

Credit photo: Narbe

Throughout March, Quiksilver had the privilege of hosting 3 freestyle sessions - an open concept to both skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. The three contrasting slopes were designed and built by Quiksilver's Shaping crew, headed by Graham McVoy and included Castleford's highly experienced Damien Doyle and MK's Steve Revil. As well as the regular features you would expect from a freestyle session, added extras ensured a more memorable experience for all those envolved. McVoy and his team constructed extravagant features which were both large in size and versatile in design, offering numerous lines and transfers for those creative enough to work them out! Castleford hosted a step up - step down butterbox, integrated with an up rail to street set up, down box and a host of various side-on hip style take offs. Manchester presented what has been quoted as the "biggest and best" indoor kicker in the UK to date where as Milton Keynes offered an entire arena of fun filled with rails, boxes and kickers.

Quiksilver riders including Jamie Nichols, James Thorne, Henry Shackleton and Ollie Jackson set tricks to recreate - similar to the format of the recent Quiksilver 'King Of Snow' contests, with spot prizes thrown out by Jay, the Rails, Bails MC. The freestyle nights were also accompanied by the screening of the epic Travis Rice "That's It That's All" movie. Each event was hugely successful with skiers and snowboarders following the 'Rails, Bails & Large Ales' tour across the UK with many riders asking when the next event will be.

A big thanks to Graham McVoy and his team at GMC, SNO!zones in MK & Castleford and The Chill Factore in Manchester.

Best quotes from the nights:

"This is bar far the most fun event i have been to at an indoor slope."

"I went to Castleford, Manchester and next week i am definately going to Milton Keynes. It's been so much fun, these parks are amazing!"

"I really want that Quiksilver bag. What tricks do i need to land to get it?!"

"It's so good that it's not a contest format, everyone's allowed in and it makes it a lot more fun... especially with the DJ's and Quik Pros doing the sickest tricks."

"This was by far the best indoor kicker i've ever ridden. Thanks for putting this on, it was such a sick night!"

Watch the videos on Vimeo:

http://www.vimeo.com/3597529 

Thursday night was also the launch of the UK search to find the next Quiksilver Woman. On the night, 5 girls applied for the UK Ambassador search, displaying their work to the Quiksilver Women's team and the mini site is now live for all creative and independent women to apply online at http://ambassador.quiksilver-women.com

A massive thanks to Gibson Guitars who kindly donated a Les Paul Guitar for the event which was won by the lucky Tilly from Trendstop.

The media who attended this amazing night were:

Glamour

Elle

SuperSuper

Rubbish Magazine

Drapers

Daily Express

Trendstop.com

Cooler

Nollie TV/Huck

Heat Magazine

Music, Art, DJ & Good times... Thursday 12th March 09.  

Quiksilver for Women are hosting the an evening of entertainment to celebrate female creativity and the talents of Quiksilver Womens ambassadors from across Europe.  As part of the night, Quiksilver for Women will be launching a new campaign to find the next UK Ambassador. 

Creative, Independent, Timeless, Sophisticated, Adventurous, Romantic, Rock & Roll - if this is you come along to the event and submit your entry to become the next Quiksilver Women's Ambassador.  Or apply online, www.ambassador.quiksilver-women.com

QUIKSILVER WOMEN'S LIVE GIG, Preseting the Quiksilver Women Ambassadors from across Europe:

- Meet Ela, creative writer and the gorgeous face of SS09

-Discover the creative eye of Bara Prasilova

- Live acoustic sets from Anna Leddra Chapman, Ellie Lawson, and breaking Columbia artist Charlotte O'Connor

- Former Miss Switzerland and Quiksilver Womens internationally acclaimed DJ Mahara McKay will bring the house down for you to party through the night!

Thursday 12th March, Bush Hall, London W12 7LJ

QUIKSILVER PRO GOLD COAST ROUND 3 RESULTS:
Heat 6: Jeremy Flores (FRA) 12.83 def. Nic Muscroft (AUS) 11.07
Heat 8: Julian Wilson (AUS) 15.33 def. Kelly Slater (USA) 13.84

ROUND 4 UPCOMING MATCH-UP
Heat 3: Mick Fanning (AUS) Vs Jeremy Flores (FRA)

More info, photos and videos about the Quiksilver Pro: www.quiksilverpro.com.au

Watch the first Euroforce Episode: click here

QUIKSILVER PRO GOLD COAST ROUND 2 RESULTS:
Heat 1: Bede Durbidge (AUS) 15.00 def. Daniel Wills (AUS) 8.67
Heat 2: Joel Parkinson (AUS) 14.56 def. Corey Ziems (AUS) 10.27
Heat 3: C.J. Hobgood (USA) 15.33 def. Aritz Aranburu (EUK) 10.06
Heat 4: Adrian Buchan (AUS) 16.33 def. Marlon Lipke (DEU) 10.50
Heat 5: Drew Courtney (AUS) 13.60 def. Bobby Martinez (USA) 12.53
Heat 6: Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) 15.53 def. Phillip MacDonald (AUS) 12.73
Heat 7: Dustin Barca (HAW) 11.34 def. Chris Ward (USA) 9.50
Heat 8: David Weare (ZAF) 15.73 def. Kai Otton (AUS) 15.50
Heat 9: Jihad Khodr (BRA) 14.26 def. Tim Reyes (USA) 13.67
Heat 10: Tom Whitaker (AUS) 15.33 def. Gabe Kling (USA) 8.83
Heat 11: Dayyan Neve (AUS) 11.34 def. Michel Bourez (PYF) 8.74
Heat 12: Chris Davidson (AUS) 16.67 def. Michael Picon (FRA) 12.34
Heat 13: Dane Reynolds (USA) 18.83 def. Nathaniel Curran (USA) 13.24
Heat 14: Taylor Knox (USA) 15.00 def. Mick Campbell (AUS) 12.50
Heat 15: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 14.50 def. Dean Morrison (AUS) 14.50
Heat 16: Roy Powers (HAW) 14.67 def. Ben Dunn (AUS) 12.23

QUIKSILVER PRO GOLD COAST ROUND 3 RESULTS:
Heat 1: C.J. Hobgood (USA) vs. Dustin Barca (HAW)
Heat 2: Kieren Perrow (AUS) vs. Jihad Khodr (BRA)
Heat 3: Dayyan Neve (AUS) vs. Chris Davidson (AUS)
Heat 4: Joel Parkinson (AUS) vs. Tiago Pires (PRT)
Heat 5: Mick Fanning (AUS) vs. Kekoa Bacalso (HAW)
Heat 6: Jeremy Flores (FRA) vs. Nic Muscroft (AUS)
Heat 7: Damien Hobgood (AUS) vs. Heitor Alves (BRA)
Heat 8: Kelly Slater (USA) vs. Julian Wilson (AUS)
Heat 9: Bede Durbidge (AUS) vs. Jay Thompson (AUS)
Heat 10: Taylor Knox (USA) vs. Jordy Smith (ZAF)
Heat 11: Adriano de Souza (BRA) vs. Greg Emslie (ZAF)
Heat 12: Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) vs. Josh Kerr (AUS)
Heat 13: Taj Burrow (AUS) vs. Drew Courtney (AUS)
Heat 14: Dane Reynolds (USA) vs. Roy Powers (HAW0
Heat 15: Adrian Buchan (AUS) vs. Tim Boal (FRA)
Heat 16: Tom Whitaker (AUS) vs. David Weare (ZAF)

The Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast pres. by LG Mobile will be webcast LIVE via www.quiksilverpro.com.au 

And Check Belly's Blog!

Credit photo: ASP/Kirstin

ROUND 1, Results
Heat 1: Jeremy Flores (FRA) 13.67, Dustin Barca 11.87, Dean Morrison (AUS) 9.70
Heat 6: Damien Hobgood (USA) 17.50, C.J. Hobgood (USA) 12.83, Aritz Aranburu (EUK) 4.93
Heat 8: Kelly Slater (USA) 12.17, Dayyan Neve (AUS) 11.00, Daniel Wills (AUS) 10.67
Heat 9: Julian Wilson (AUS) 14.10, Bede Durbidge (AUS) 12.73, Miky Picon (FRA) 9.06

ROUND 2
Heat 3: C.J. Hobgood (USA) vs. Aritz Aranburu (EUK)
Heat 12: Miky Picon (FRA) vs. Chris Davidson (AUS)
Heat 13: Dane Reynolds (USA) vs. Nathaniel Curran (USA)

28th March - 4th April 2009, Laax, Switzerland!

Quiksilver will be hosting the Big Air Championships - one of the biggest draws of the Brits on Tuesday 31th March & Thursday 2nd April and you could be there to witness the action.  We’re giving away accommodation, lift passes, party tickets and VIP Passes to the Quiksessions Funk Night in association with Whitelines.

Not only will you be invited to watch the British Snowboarding Championships but you’ll also get a chance to go riding with Quiksilver team riders James Thorne, Jamie Nicholls, Ollie Jackson, Henry Shakleton and legendary Quiksilver Team Manager James Stentiford. 

 Click www.whitelines.com/competitions to win your trip NOW!!

 check out more info on the www.brits09.com

*The winners must be over 18 (unless accompanied by an adult).  Flights are not included.

Photo: Ed Blomfield/Whitelines

February 6th 2009 @ Islington Academy (LONDON)

w/ Exit Ten, Rise to Remain

February 17th 2009 @ Academy 2 (OXFORD)

w/ Exit Ten, Rise to Remain

Tickets are now on sale and can be bought through: http://livenation.co.uk/ & http://www.seetickets.co.uk/

Spinefarm Records UK will be releasing 'The Way Of The Fist' on January 19th 2009. The UK version comes with a bonus live track plus a cover of Faith No More's 'From Out of Nowhere'. The album will be available for streaming through the band's UK MySpace page on January 7th 2009 - http://www.myspace.com/ffdtukfans

'The Bleeding' will follow on as the second single from the album on February 9th 2009. A video for the track can be viewed on the Spinefarm YouTube page - http://www.youtube.com/spinefarmrecordsuk

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH tour dates:

6th February 2009 @ Islington Academy (London) - HEADLINE SHOW w/ Exit Ten, Rise To Remain

9th February 2009 @ Mandela Hall (Belfast) - w/ Lamb of God

10th February 2009 @ Academy (Dublin) - w/ Lamb of God

11th February 2009 @ Academy (Bristol) - w/ Dimmu Borgir, Lamb of God and Unearth

12th February 2009 @ Academy (Birmingham) - w/Dimmu Borgir, Lamb of God and Unearth

13th February 2009 @ Academy (Manchester) - w/ Dimmu Borgir, Lamb of God and Unearth

14th February 2009 @ Brixton Academy (London) - w/Dimmu Borgir, Lamb of God and Unearth

15th February 2009 @ Academy (Glasgow) - w/Dimmu Borgir, Lamb of God and Unearth

17th February 2009 @ Academy 2 (Oxford) HEADLINE SHOW w/ Exit Ten, Rise To Remain

More info on http://www.fissnowboardworldcup.com

Today saw an even larger crowd than yesterday cheering the riders, and proved just how popular this sport is finally becoming in China! With yesterday's field of 24 riders narrowed down to just 12 for the best-of-two-runs Finals, the pressure was definitely on to throw down on the competition's last day.

After the morning session, some radical riding and some heavy deliberation from the judges, the results really were too close to call. Markus Keller and Tyler Chorlton ended up in a dead tie for 4th place, and thus 5 riders would advance through to the Super Finals. Markus and Tyler joined Atsushi Ishikawa, Freddy Austbo and Kalle Ohlson for the afternoon's showdown.

An obvious crowd favourite at the 6th Red Bull Nanshan Open, Freddy Austbo unfortunately failed to place highly in last year's event, unable to gain enough speed against the wind. This year, however, things would be different, and as the winds increased in the afternoon Freddy morphed into the ultimate aerodynamic machine, becoming one of the few competitors to comfortable clear both kickers. "I'm so stoked. This year I didn't use Kalle's wax and bought my own instead, so I was actually able to get some speed! I can't wait to celebrate at karaoke tonight..." Freddy took home first place and 500 TTR points with a winning run consisting of a BS540 off the first hit, a Cab540 off the second, a BS180 up on to the wave box and a Cab540 off. Freddy finished his run with a rock-and-roll to fakie on the wallride and will definitely be rock-and-rolling the mic tonight!

Returning for his third year at this event, Atsushi Ishikawa grabbed 471.15 TTR points with a close second place, ranking one place higher than at last year's Open and only just missing out on a perfect run. "I wanted to get first.. but I will come back and try again next year!" We hope to finally see Atsushi in the center of the podium then!

With the competition side of the trip over, riders will now get to relax and enjoy the rest of what China has to offer – site-seeing at the Great Wall, some delicious local food and of course, the infamous after parties. Zaijian!

7th Red Bull Nanshan Open Results:

1 - Freddy Austbo (Norway), Quiksilver/Nixon/Elm

2 - Atsushi Ishikawa (Japan), Quiksilver/Deeluxe/Flow

3 - Kalle Ohlson (Sweden), Vans/Bataleon/Adidas

4 - Markus Keller (Switzerland), Red Bull/Nitro/Volcom

5 - Tyler Chorlton (Great Britain), Bataleon/Oakley/Vans

6 - Jakob Wilhelmson (Sweden), Quiksilver/Libtech/Level

7 - Yongho Lee (Korea), Salomon/Sugapoint/Electric

8 - Teo Konttinen (Finland), Quiksilver

Credit photo: Lorenz Holder 

Fashion tips, cheeky gossips, travels around the world, mood notes, artistic windows, cooking corner... women's minds are now online!
Punchy, Spicy and Smart, the QSW blog is an open web space to let all the women talk free.

www.blog.quiksilver-women.com

The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau is the world's most prestigious big-wave surfing event and is the only big-wave surf contest sanctioned by the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP), the governing body of professional surfing.

Scheduled to take place at the hallowed grounds of Waimea Bay, on the North Shore of Oahu, between December 1, 2008, and February 28, 2009, the event, otherwise known as "The Eddie", requires one day with a minimum of 20-foot surf (Hawaiian scale) in order to run.

Held in honor of the legendary Hawaiian waterman, Eddie Aikau, the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau gathers 28 of the most skillful and dynamic big-wave surfers from around the world as polled by a comprehensive panel consisting of influential watermen, members of the surf industry, and internationally recognized surfing Associations.

The first memorial event for Aikau was held in 1984 at Sunset Beach, two miles north of Waimea Bay. It was won by local standout Denton Miyamura. Following the inaugural event, The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau moved to Waimea Bay, where it has remained ever since. 2008 marks the event's 24th anniversary; in only seven of those years have the waves been big enough and the conditions right to hold the contest.

In the realm of big-wave riding, the name Eddie Aikau commands as much respect as Waimea Bay itself. Aikau was the North Shore of Oahu's first lifeguard, watching over the Bay when he wasn't charging the biggest waves of the winter. Tragically, he lost his life in 1978, at the age of 33, during a re-creation of the Polynesian voyage between Hawaii and Tahiti. In huge seas, the voyaging canoe Hokule'a was capsized. Eddie paddled off in an attempt to reach help for his fellow crewmen. He was never seen again but his spirit and legacy live on.

The complete list of Invitees and Alternates for this year's event are listed below and available online at www.quiksilver.com/eddie. The website also includes photos and video from previous year's events, Invitee profiles and swell updates. Visitors can sign up to receive text updates for the "Official Contest Call" and watch online when the Bay calls the day.

Collectible limited-edition The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau merchandise, including boardshorts, t-shirts, hats, sandals and backpack, are also available in Quiksilver stores.  

Location: Waimea Bay, North Shore, Oahu, HAWAII

Opening Ceremony: Thursday, December 4, 2008. 3pm.

Event Holding Period: December 1, 2008 to February 28, 2009. To be held on one day when surf measures at least 20 feet (40 feet faces).

The Big-Wave Riders: 28 of the world's best big-wave riders, including defending champion Bruce Irons (Hawaii), nine-time world champion-elect Kelly Slater (Florida), and Aikau's younger brother and former champion Clyde Aikau. US$ 55,000 for first place.

1984 (held at Sunset Beach): Denton Miyamura (Hawaii)
1986: Clyde Aikau (Hawaii)
1990: Keone Downing (Hawaii)
1999: Noah Johnson (Hawaii)
2001: Ross Clarke-Jones (Australia)
2002: Kelly Slater (Florida)
2004: Bruce Irons (Hawaii)

After his career best result, a win at The Reef Hawaiian Pro, held at the notorious North Shore break of Haleiwa.  Michel now lies in second place on the WQS ratings.  Gaining essential points in the penultimate WQS event of the year, the Tahitian surfer is now in the safe zone for qualification for next years Dream Tour. 

Michel posted the highest heat score during the event, an 18.96 on his way to his victory.  The Tahitian surfer was overjoyed with the surf and felt right at home in the powerful North Shore conditions. "Everybody was getting barreled I was screaming my head off. It was so sick. I was having so much fun out there and that's what I call a good contest. It means a lot to just (qualify for) the ASP World Tour. I've been dreaming about this my whole life since I started to surf. I've been watching all the best surfers, like Kelly (Slater) and (Rob) Machado, all those guys. And, right now I can surf with them. It's a good opportunity for me and all the Tahitian surfers. I'm stoked for Tahiti." 

Michel has already made his mark in the big league of the ASP World tour.  Surfing as a wildcard in the Quiksilver Pro France event this year, Michel scalped many of the big names on his way to an impressive Quarter final result.  The young surfer turned a lot of heads and can enter the Dream Tour with confidence.  For one thing is certain, on the 2009 Tour, if the waves are ever big, powerful and hollow Michel is going to be one of the most exciting surfers to watch.  His victory in Haleiwa means he also leads The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing Series, one of the most prestigous titles available in the surfing world.  He has nothing to lose going into the last events of the year, he is in form, confident and right at home.  Anyone who has seen him surf knows how dangerous he can be, so it will be no surprise to see him shine again before the year is out.

Ibon has begun the winter season with a bang, having already logged some great swells and been recognized for his efforts.  However, for Ibon the best and biggest is perhaps yet to come.  He is the highest rated European in the alternates list for the world's most prestigious big wave competition, The Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational In Memory Of Eddie Aikau.  The world famous contest will be held only when the waves meet the minimum 20ft requirement so Ibon will be checking charts for signs of a monster swell.  The location is the infamous Waimea Bay on Hawaii's North Shore, which is the true gladiator pit for big wave surfers and a long way from Ibon's home in the Basque Country.  Ibon will then be relying on invitees above him on the list not taking up their place but, if that happens, he will be ready.

To back up his credentials, Ibon also has an entry into the Billabong XXL Awards.  The XXL event runs for a year and the world's biggest waves are compared and judged.  Ibon has previously had entries after surfing Planeixa and Playa Gris in Northern Spain, but this year he has already upped the ante by scoring a wave called Schrodinger's Left.  The wave was a mutant looking, 20-foot monster!  Judging by Ibon's performance at Schrodinger's Left, if there is any chance for Ibon to impress at Waimea Bay this winter, you can be assured the Basque charger will be the first to go!

http://live.quiksilver.com/2008/eddie

Gabe Davies

Glenn Hall, who surfs for the Irish National team, took home the Portrush Open Title in clean 2 foot surf at White Rocks Beach in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.  Glenn who learned to surf in Australia but has recently returned to his Irish roots, took control of the event from the first round.  The small surf suited his sharp, effortless style and the gathered crowd of spectators were soon predicting his victory.  Glenn not only won the final but also the Sector Nine 'King Of The Waves' prize for the individual best wave score and 'The Relentless Money Move' for the most powerful manoeuvre to complete a clean sweep of the prizes.  Glenn, who is ranked in the top 50 on the world professional circuit (WQS) was delighted with the win, which could not have come at a better time as he is getting married next month in Hawaii.  Young Jayce Robinson from Cornwall put up a good fight in the final to finish second within a single point of Glenn.  Last year's UK Pro Tour winner and current ratings leader Sam Lamiroy took third and Martin Black placed fourth after an impressive semi final performance.  The final was enjoyed by the biggest crowd of the Quiksilver and Roxy 3 Degrees series so far who were also greeted with sunshine and light winds.

The Portrush event had extra points and prize money for the best surfers in Britain ad beyond who had travelled to surf in the previous events in Tynemouth NE England and Thurso in Scotland as part of the Quiksilver and Roxy 3 Degrees series.  Spencer Hargraves representing the event sponsor said, "Quiksilver is proud to support the ground roots of surfing in Britain and Ireland.  We have surfed the last three events in all possible conditions.  We have had to contend with snow, gale force winds, and waves that have varied from 2ft to 8ft perfection.  The 3 Degrees series has shown the high standard of British surfers and the great locations we have around our coastlines."

Coleraine Borough Council laid on their excellent facilities to the travelling surfers.  Coleraine Borough Councillor Norman Hillis said "I am pleased to welcome surfers from all around the world who had travelled a long way from much warmer places to be here at our great beaches on the North Coast.  I'm sorry we haven't been able to provide big waves here today.  It's the one thing we can't guarantee, but as a boy I remember huge waves out here at our beaches, so I hope that you will all be back here again for an even better and bigger evet next year."

As the Quiksilver and Roxy 3 Degrees series draws to a close with a very successful finale, the surfers now continue on to Newquay for the final event on the UK Pro Surf Tour where the overall winner will be decided.

Gabe Davies.

All photo credits go to WILL BAILEY.

Friday the 31st of October saw Quiksilver and Red Bull team up for the double UK premiere of Travis Rice's film, 'That's it That's All' and Hampus' 'Pony Tail' at the hidden 'Village Underground' in Shoreditch, London.

Pony Tail, a low budget film with probably the best rail section I have ever seen, and the most highly anticipated film of the year - Travis Rice's no dollar spared helicopter extravaganza.  Seemingly chalk and cheese what both films do have in common is some of the most creative riding of the year.

With a Travis Rice board being awarded to the best Halloween fancy dress people pulled out all the stops.  Travis and co star Mark Landvic got involved, cutting menacing figures dressed as characters from Clock Work Orange.  Also present were Hampus, Jackob Wihelmson, the Cockney Nut Job Hitcher from the Mighty Bush and a Bondage Banana.

With a capacity crowd there was plenty of noise, especially for Travis's triple backflip backside 180 and 25ft high tree bonks.  Most peoples reactions were one of disbelief to a film that truly pushes the boundaries of snowboarding combining Planet Earth like cinematography with powderful sound tracks and the most innovative snowboarding possible. 

Quiksilver and Red Bull put on a good bar ensuring a massive post film dance off involving Factory Media's Marcus Chapman, Film Maker Adam Gendle and photographer Josh Knox to name a few. 

That's it That's all.  What a night....

After a great day of surfing in solid North Shore conditions, the Scottish Open yet again provided the goods.  With a swell of 6ft plus, the legendary break of Thurso East came alive, allowing the best of British surfers to shine in world class waves in the shadow of an ancient castle.

In a tough final, fantastic waves were traded and only a few points split the positions throughout as the four surfers turned up the heat in the icy water.  Reubin Pierce made the most of an exchange of waves in the dying seconds to take second place.  Despite a slow start Reubyn Ash landed a huge floater on his final wave to propel himself into third place.  Spencer Hargraves made the most of the the conditions with his strong surfing and dominated the middle part of the final but couldn't match the high scores of 16.93 that gave first place to Micah Lester.  Micah scored a 9.1 on his opening wave with a barrel and huge carving hack, leaving him looking for a back up wave that eventually came to him to seal the deserved victory.  'For me I couldn't ask for a better wave for this event.  It is the best right-hander in the country and maybe in Europe and suits me to a tee. It is my favourite wave in Europe and this is the highlight of my year.  Yesterday was the hell road trip and then today was pumping.   It's great, said Micah after the prize presentation. 

Quiksilver Team Captain Spencer got barrelled for most of the day and enjoyed the solid conditions and scored an 8.7 for his carve and barrel ride in the final.  Earning a perfect ten-point ride earlier in his quarterfinal with a late take-off barrel, Alan Stokes won both the King of the Waves award for the individual highest wave score and the Relentless Money move award.

The Roxy event also ran and the ladies were out in solid reef break conditions.  Surfing in cold water and over shallow rocks didn't faze them at all.  Nicole Morgan, Shauna Ward, Caroline Perret, Jo Dennison and Raine Jackson put on a great display, showing the crowds that the girls don't mind the big surf at all.  Jo Dennison came second in the thrilling final with Nicole Morgan stealing the wave she needed at the end to push Shauna Ward into third place and to take the victory.  Nicole thanked Roxy and the UK Pro Surf Tour for arranging such a  great event for the girls to showcase their talents in fantastic waves.  Shauna Ward won the Queen of the Waves award scoring a 7.63, which was the highest individual score of the final.

 The day didn't start out quite like it ended.  Rain, hail and strong winds greeted the surfers at the 8am start time.  As the day progressed however the 8ft messy waves improved as the wind turned offshore and the sun (yes sun!) shone through the clouds to provide a fantastic end to proceedings.  The conditions were well earned after some tough days of driving around England and Scotland in search of the best available waves in between snow and gales in order to complete the North East Open.

The surfers continue on to the third event of the 3 Degrees Series, which is organised and run by the UK Pro Surf Tour.  The entire team of surfers, organisers and supporters will be back on the road again tomorrow, with the next destinations being Portrush in Northern Ireland for what will undoubtedly be another display of impressive surfing. 

Gabe Davies.

Surfers Brave the Harshest Conditions ever seen in Professional Surfing!

Gale force winds, snow and below-zero temperatures made this event perhaps one of the most hard core professional surfing events ever!

The North East Open is part of Quiksilver and Roxy 3 Degrees Series. The event organised as part of the the UK Pro Surfing Tour was due to run in Tynemouth.  In searhch of the best available conditions, the surfers and organisers drove just about as far North and as about far East as you can go in mainland UK.  This morning the event ran just south of John 'o' Groats at Keiss beach.  Conditions were harsh at best and horrific at times.  In between hail and snow squalls small clean waves were found and the surfers dived in regardless.

 As the day progressed, better waves were reported at Sandside beach, so the surfers drove on in search of optimum conditions in which to surf their event.  This time to a beach that is in fact located in the shadow of the Dounreay Nuclear Facility.  A great left hand break allowed the surfers to show off their best manoeuvres to the judges.   No spectators unrelated to the surfers braved the elements! Except for perhaps the odd seal, few people would have known that the best surfers in the UK were fighting it out for the £2000 prize and vital points up for grabs as part of the UK Pro Surfing tour.

Eventual winner, Sam Lamiroy took the title and beat the other finalists in what was to be a tough day in the office.  The winner's cheque and the points will always make a bad day good.  Runner up in second place was Quiksilver Welshman Nathan Phillips, and not quite finding the required waves despite earlier great performances were Warren Tuck from South Africa in third and his countryman Mike Young in Fourth.  The King of Water Sports award for the highest wave score was awarded to the Australian Jye Goffton for a 9.77 ride.

Britain's best male and female surfers remain in the far North of Scotland to compete again in the Quiksilver and Roxy Scottish Challenge.  The tour will then be moving onto Northern Ireland for the Quiksilver and Roxy Portrush Open.

Despite the wind and the harsh elements the surfers and organisers will be ready in the spirit of adventure to face the conditions again for the upcoming contests.  Next year the events could be more aptly renamed.  The Quiksilver and Roxy 'minus' 3 Degrees Series.  One thing is for sure; surfing in the snow definitely pushes the limits of professional surfing!

Gabe Davies

Check it out!

After two european ASP World Tour contests, a break allowed the boys to meet into barrels made in Landes.

Jeremy said : " It was so sick ! I think some days I surfed around 8 hours ! "

Check out Jeremy Flores, Micky Picon and Patrick Beven in action.

More videos available on the photo/video section!

THE LOCKOUT show, hosted by Kate McIntyre, presents 6 of the countries 'just about to break' musical talents on every show to an audience of 400 + at one of Londons best live music venues. The Lockout works with music industry taste makers to select only acts who are truly the best new talent on the scene, therefore allowing those who attend an exclusive chance to see these future stars before the rest of the world find out about them!   

The show on October 15th will also be streamed LIVE via the Lockouts own internet TV site so if you cant make it to the show in person, watch it virtually by following the links at www.lockoutmusic.com   

Current chart toppers Scott Matthews, Lucie Silvas, Beth Rowley and Jamie Scott have all performed at previous Lockout shows, come and see who will follow in their footsteps! Tickets can be bought in advance at -  www.lockoutmusic.co

 * The Lockout has a regular attendance from key figures from the music industry (incl. record labels & music press) if you are interested in submitted your act for a slot of the Lockout stage, go to the 'New artists sign up here' via the Lockout website to send us an MP3.

Bourez, who jumps from No. 14 to No. 8 on the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Qualifying Series (WQS) ratings thanks to the 1875 points' reward for his run in Brazil, will land in the Canarian archipelago for the upcoming ASP WQS 6-Star Prime Santa Surf Pro on the island of Lanzarote with great confidence.

"I am out of the "danger zone" and flying out to the Canary Islands with a more confidence," Bourez said. "I hope I can get a couple more good results and secure more points for my ASP World Tour qualification."

In four events, including the Quiksilver Pro France where he accomplished one of the best performances of his career defeating ASP World Tour No. 3 and 4 Bede Durbidge (AUS) and Joel Parkinson (AUS), Bourez has placed 2nd in the ASP WQS 5-Star Movistar Pantin Classic and 3rd in the ASP WQS 5-Star Rip Curl Pro Zarautz, now adding an equal 3rd to his quest.

The Tahitian charger, former 2006 ASP European Champion, finished best European in the event.

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Kelly surfed against the odds to pull one of the biggest comebacks ever seen in surfing history to beat the in-form Taj Burrows.  Taj had two great rides early in the final and his scores of 9.00 and 9.63 put Kelly in a combo situation.  Kelly was left searching for two world-class rides just to save face, nevermind win.  With all the work to do, Kelly laid everything on a rail, in the air and put his turns in reverse to manage a comeback from a seemingly impossible position.   He scored a 9.70 then, in the dying seconds, Taj made the fatal error of allowing Kelly to catch a smaller wave, which proved to put the final nail in his own coffin.  Kelly thoroughly destroyed the smaller wave, surfing with huge, committed and radical turns.   His score of 9.27 met his requirements and he stole the win in true Slater style. 

Kelly Slater had been having a great week.  He won the Surfer magazine Poll for the 11th time.  He scored the first 10-point wave and numerous 9-point waves at Trestles, in what turned out to be one of the highlight locations of the ASP World Tour this year.  Besides the invaluable points, Kelly walked away with a massive 75,000$ cheque due to the additional generosity of the event sponsors.

French star and highest placed European surfer, Jeremy Flores, went into the event recovering from an ankle injury rated 13th but rose to 10th after his fantastic semi-final result.  He earned his quarterfinal spot in the last ten seconds of his 4th round heat against reigning World Champion Mick Fanning.  Jeremy pulled a radical high speed reverse to score 8.5 points.  Jeremy then bettered it with a 9.07, linking fast-flowing combination turns that put Mick on the back foot.  Jeremy said, "To beat the best, there is no better feeling than that."  His semi-final placing matched his best result of the year, a 3rd at the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast event.  Jeremy will continue his momentum straight into the next event at his home venue in SW France.

Dane Reynolds (rated 26th before but rose to 20th after the event) was the third Quiksilver rider to make it through to the final day of the event.  He had already pulled out some amazing performances in the early rounds including a 9.77 wave score.  He is renowned as one of the best free-surfers, having just won the best manoeuvre at the prestigious Surfer Poll awards, but hadn't yet put in a contest performance worthy of his level. He said, "I try to do a trick 60 times, make it once and get an award for it!"
 
Miky Picon had a 17th place finish losing out by 0.9 points in Round 3, even though he won his first heat. The result will better his rating and count towards his year-end result.  Aritz finished 33rd and lost to Bruce Irons, the previous event winner.  Both surfers can now look forward to home-crowd support when they compete in Europe in the coming fortnight.

Gabe Davies

Come back everyday to check the new podcast !

The semis were the tip of the iceberg for a final that had basically everything in terms of gnar and technical prowess. Vans ripper Chris Oliver took the street honours with an array of hammers that included a double backside flip over the entire middle section of the course followed by Ross McGouran and Kris Vile, who placed 2nd and 3rd respectively. It was seriously close.

UKSA National championships street final

1 Chris Oliver 472 £2,500
2 Ross McGouran 450 £1,500
3 Kris Vile 434 £1,000
4 Ben Grove 424 £300
5 Dave Snaddon 410 £150
6 Tom Harrison 394 £100
7 Dan Wileman 389 £80
8 Neil Smith 377 £60
9 Ben Nordberg 371 £40
10 Pete King 357 £20
 

"I am happy for William (Cardoso) because he surfed really well in the event and totally deserves to win it," Bourez said. "I could not really hear the scores out there but I knew I had to get a second good wave so I waited for a set but it never came. There was nothing i could do but I am happy with that final."

Bourez, who jumps back to No. 26 on the ratings, will be much awaited at all big events coming up including the Canarian 6-Star Prime rated one and the Hawaiian contests where his shallow-reef experience will be a great assett.

"It is a good moment to get back on track as there is still lots of events coming up and it was time I had a result," Bourez said. "The upcoming events usually suit my surfing well so I will be confident for sure. Nothing is over so I will take this one result as a good start to the end of the year."

www.aspworldtour.com

Wanaka

After 48 hours of flights, lost bags and lost car reservations we finally found ourselves in Wanaka. The weather was wintry as ever and snow conditions were looking good. It was one of the best winters for snow in years so we were all amped to get on the mountains.

Like all great plans and when things seemed to have been timed just right, the wild card of weather came in and the sun vanished.  The forecast was good with more and more snow predicted, but after 5 days of trying to chase the sun, we were starting to get a bit edgy.   Were we going to get a good clear day to profit from the great snow or not? All our efforts to find a weather window seemed to be doomed.

The morning of the 6th day finally dawned with better conditions.  It looked like clear skies and 1m of fresh snow. The crew of Travis, Hampus, Candide and Markku geared up and headed to Mt Cook for some well-awaited heli time. The day turned out to be good, but not great, and the team came in with some shots and motivation for the next day.  Meanwhile the rest of us flew around the Southern Alps with Austin, Brian and Mathieu.

Our luck seemed to be changing as the guys had epic sessions the following day. There were plenty of powder landings on a full-sized kicker, which the guys had got together.  The celebrations continued, as that night it was time to hit the red carpet to check out the awaited movie premiere of Travis Rice and associates.

Beginning of the road trip

Saturday morning it was time to head out and explore NZ country. We hooked up with our guide Mike and headed out to try the traditional way of riding in NZ, the club fields. We'd only heard of the wild rumours of nutcrackers and towropes.

Broken river

The sun was out in the morning when we headed straight out to Craigeburn ski fields. It was a beautiful drive up through the forest to get to the parking area. I was happy to see there was a lift, but my joy was cut short, as we were told it was only possible to send our gear up. No worries, it was only a 20 minute hike up to the start of the lifts, at least that's what the sign said. We were to discover after hiking the initial 20 minutes, another sign that told us we actually had a further 20 minutes to go.

We finally made it to the top, only to be greeted by some curious kea birds, which awaited us at the end of the runs.

For those of you who have never seen a nutcracker before, I can tell you, I wonder why most of the skiers and snowboarders on these fields are not missing some fingers. Try to picture yourself locked in a harness with a metal "hook" attached to it. With this metal hook you are supposed to grab hold of the 3 centimetre thick cable while it pulls you up. After a few spectacular slams we seemed to finally start to get the hang of it and were able to get to the top. Even though the snow was not the best, we still managed to find some packed powder pockets and had a fun day on the hill.

The weather was once again turning bad and we headed to the coast and Kaikoura.

Kaikoura
This was intended to be the place for the traditional Maori experience, whale watching and maybe some surfing, but yet again the weather really turned a trick on us. The rain started pouring and didn't stop for three days. We got 250 mm of rain in 24 hours! Flooding and landslides closed all the roads out of town and we found ourselves stuck. Nonetheless we managed to find surf at a right hand point break with no one around.

The roads stayed closed until midday of our third day. We were all expecting to take the scenic boat trip across the Cook Strait, but because of the delays we missed the boat and had to catch the evening boat.

Mt Ruapehu
Next stop was to be Mt Ruapehu and the Whakapapa ski resort. Mt Ruapehu is an active volcano with the most amazing scenery and terrain. We had sent ahead the world famous Nicolas Marduel who was on orders to shape us up a jump using the second volcano as the backdrop.

We had a sunset session and managed to quickly get a few shots in the can. The jump needed to be changed a bit and we were hoping to score it the next day. Unfortunately just like our previous stops, the weather was against us once again. The next day we suffered thick fog.  We waited until sunset for it to clear, but it was not to be.

It was time to bring the snow part of our trip to an end.  We now headed to the coast and the world famous left hand point break of Raglan.   We hoped to score some waves and for once Mother Nature was with us. We were lucky and scored perfect 2-metre waves for the next 3 days.  It turned out to be a great trip with highs, lows and some incredible adventures.
 

Wigolly Dantas (BRA) was the only rider to qualify for the final, finishing 3rd in the Pro Junior of Ericeira.  Tristan Guilbaud recorded his best performance in the Pro Junior events finshing 7th.
'I'm really stoked to be in the semi,' he said.  'I caught good waves and I surfed at my top level.  I can finally leave a contest with a feeling of pride.  I used to be frustrated but not here!'
Maxime Huscenot lost in the quarter finals in a hard heat against Wigolly Dantas and Charles Martin, the eventual winner of the contest.
Maxime is still leading the rankings but his fellow competitors are chasing him for the 1st place.
'It's the third contest I lost in the quarters in a hard heat.  It's not easy, but that's life.  Now I will be concentrating on the final of the King Of The Groms, which will be at the end of September.  It's one of my main objectives this year.  The last Pro Junior is in October so I will use this break to get some rest and be fit for the last event.'
The basque surfer Igor Munian lost in the quarters while Marc Lacomare, Nicolaus Von Rupp, Dimitri Ouvre and Damien Chaudoy lost prematurely in the round of 32.

The spiritual home European surfing awoke this morning to something of a headache, as an unseasonably large west swell bore down on the famous pine fringed coast of Les Landes and the dust settled on a night of high revelry at the Casino d'Hossegor.

European pro surfers, surf industry bigwigs and assorted good time seekers enjoyed the stellar hospitality of the Casino late into the wee hours last night to celebrate the continued evolution of surfing on our shores, with online voters across Europe and beyond honouring their favourite Male and Female Surfers, Best Video Part, Best Photo, New Kid on the Block and Lifetime Achievement in the Inaugural Surf Europe Readers' Choice Awards.

"I just want to thank everyone who voted for me," a dapper M. Flores said after exiting the stage,"It means a lot not just to try to win contests but to be recognised by the public also. I'm super stoked. I think this is a great night for European surfing, for all of us."

Flores took the top award from TIAGO PIRES (POR) in second place with the voters, who, proudly accepting the honours in front of his mum also echoed Jeremy's sentiments about the growing strength of the European collective.

Fellow Top 45 surfers MIKY PICON (FRA) and ARITZ ARANBURU (EUK) took 3rd and 4th spots respectively, with MARLON LIPKE (DEU) coming home in 5th place with the voters, recognizing his recent stellar performances on the WQS as he attempts to be the first German to qualify for ASP World Tour.

MARC LACOMARE (FRA) took out the New Kid On The Block award as he continues his impressive rise into the pro ranks, the local teenager receiving huge applause from a packed house, as did local charger and French 1988 National Champion SEB ST JEAN (FRA) who picked up a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of decades of performance surfing and dedication to the powerful surf of Hossegor and surrounds.

The ever smooth surfing of JONATHAN GONZALEZ (ESP) was a clear winner for Best Video Part for his section in Euroforce the Actionmentary, the under-spoken Canarian's acceptance speech unsurprisingly being the shortest of the evening, while Biarritz teen sensation LEE ANN CURREN won the no.1 Awards for the Ladies.

Full Honours List:

Men
FLORES
PIRES
PICON
ARANBURU
LIPKE
BOAL
BOUREZ
GONZALEZ
BEVEN
MUJICA

Women
LEE ANN CURREN
PAULINE ADO
CAROLINE SARRAN

NKOTB
MARC LACOMARE

Lifetime Achievement
SEBASTIEN ST JEAN

Best Photo
CARLOS PINTO/PATRICK BEVEN, Coxos. (cover SE58)

Best Video Part
JONATHAN GONZALEZ, EUROFORCE THE ACTIONMENTARY

Surfersvillage Global Surf News
www.surfeuropemag.com

He had the highest scoring wave of the final.  Surfing strongly on a solid 4ft (1.5m) left, he tore three great off the lip manoeuvres and landed a mini air, which added to his 13.17 heat score.   His fellow finalists put on a great show to produce a fitting climax to what has been a truly spectacular event.  "I am proud to win today," he said after his victory.  "I am happy for me and Spain .  We win in the cycling and in the football.  It was a wonderful final.  I'm really looking forward to surfing against the top 16 in the world.  I will go in with no stress, no worries so let's see.  I'm excited to surf alongside Kelly Slater and Mick Fanning." He finished his winner's speech with a "Merci a todos!"  

The final day of competition at this year's KOTG event has again raised the level of junior surfing in Europe .  The sun was scorching, the waves solid, and the crowds lined Le Prévent Beach at Capbreton to watch the action.  President of Quiksilver Europe, Pierre Agnes, at the prize presentation thanked everybody for coming to his home-town to make the event special.  

The best 32 European surfers aged 16 and under fought it out today but only the top two have earned prestigious wild cards into the World KOTG final.  The Europeans will be up against the best young surfers from around the globe who will be here to compete during the Quiksilver Pro France in September.  Joining Vicente as a World KOTG finalist will be Dimitri Ouvré from Guadeloupe , who came second today.  "I know I was first at the beginning of the heat," Dimitri concluded.  "I had two good waves but at the end of the heat I saw Vicente get good waves so I knew I had to do more.  I started to stress."  Dimitri is a fast and stylish surfer and surfed two strong lefts.  He has surfed solidly throughout the event and we look forward to seeing how he fares against global competition.

In third place was the highest rated local surfer, Mark Audo.  Mark's surfing was fast and fluid and he was clearly frustrated in the final, as he couldn't find the waves he wanted.  Mark looked obviously disappointed but said, "I want to applaud the top two.  It was a great competition and I'd like to say thank you and ‘bon surf' to everyone."

Toby Donachie the highest place British surfer really made a name for himself here in France and drew a lot of local support.  He had a great event but in the final things didn't go his way.  He couldn't find the open-faced waves to do his trademark forehand snaps, or bigger power turns.  Yesterday he scored a nine-point ride but after coming through the repercharge rounds today, he couldn't quite continue to find his rhythm.  Toby said, "I was stoked to be in the final against such high level surfing.  I was pretty tired I think I peaked in my last heat, but I didn't mind having to surf all those heats as I just love surfing.'

The expression session was a crazy spectacle.  Surfers were flying through the air trying to outdo each other and the public judged the winner.  The loudest cheers went out to William Aliotti.  He took his place at the prize giving alongside the four finalists.  Colourful confetti and champagne (alcohol free!) was exploding everywhere and the top two surfers went home with limited edition black KOTG surfboards.  The colourful and classy prize giving ceremony watched by a crowd of hugely enthusiastic spectators could easily have been mistaken for an ASP World Tour event.   It is very likely we will see these young guns taking the place of the likes of Kelly Slater et al on that podium in the years to come!

Quiksilver King of the Groms PARTNERS

Orange, partner of the King of The Groms 2008

Energy, creativity and audacity are words that Orange recognises and that have helped it choose to link up with the King of The Groms 2008, a competition for riders under 16.
Orange will use its technological expertise to support the event and will put in place the technical infrastructures it requires (press room equipment, commentators stands, technical areas, web-streaming and ADSL lines...).

About Suzuki

Suzuki makes the next strategic step in rejuvenating the brand. Therefore the cooperation with Quiksilver, one of the world's most successful lifestyle and core sports brands, is just the right step to take. The world market leader in the minicar segment will be present at all sponsored skate and surf events as well as in all communication channels of Quiksilver like www.boardriderstv.com and other selected media. Moreover Suzuki will be providing 20 Suzuki Grand Vitara during all of the skate and surfing events throughout Europe to make sure riders and organizers are at the right place at the right time.

Take a visually stunning and emotionally powerful journey through his life. See Clay literally come alive in the ocean as he destroys the waves of Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii, France, Spain and Australia with his wildly creative surfing. You'll also experience inspiring testimonials about his incredible talent from the most legendary surfers in the world. The story also showcases an awareness-raising glimpse into his life and mind as he comes to understand both the gifts and challenges of living with Asperger's. 
This is a surf film unlike anything you've ever seen.