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Kolohe Andino and Laura Enever Crowned Champions at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

15/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7975537

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Finalists (left ti right Mateia Hiquily, Kolohe Andino, Laura Enever, Tyler Wright. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Kolohe Andino and Laura Enever Crowned Champions at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing
 
MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Sunday, February 15, 2015) - Laura Enever (North Narrabeen, NSW/AUS) and Kolohe Andino (San Clemente, CA/USA) have fought through a solid field of the world’s best surfers to be crowned the men’s and women’s Hurley Australian Open of Surfing champions. This prestigious World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) event saw Manly Beach turn on the charm all week and produce great surf, sunshine and an exciting finish to Sydney’s biggest surfing event.


Caption: Kolohe Andino on top of the world down under at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Andino is the event’s NO. 2 seed and did’t disappoint all week, lighting up the lineup with inverted aerials and powerful wraps and snaps. Andino finished No. 11 in the world last year and is focused on breaking into the Top 10 this season and after he opened his account in the Final with a near-perfect 9.27 he’ll be one to watch this year.

“This has been a great event, but I’m not going to take my foot off the gas at all and I’m going to keep getting ready for Snapper,” Andino said. “I had a couple of heats where by back was up against the wall and I was able to fight through which is good mental prep for Snapper. I hadn’t really heard of Mateia (Hiquily) before, but I was super impressed by his surfing at this event, he was lighting these waves up — I told him to keep the momentum going and to go and get another result in Newcastle next week.”


Caption: Laura Enever winning the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Enever has won her hometown event in spectacular fashion, besting reigning six-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore yesterday and last year’s World No. 2 Tyler Wright (South Coast, NSW/AUS) in today’s Final to win her first professional event since 2010. Enever surfed fast and aggressive and amassed two scores in the 7-point-range to take the win leading into the start of the first Championship Tour event of the year on the Gold Coast at the end of the month.

“Just before this event I went over to P-pass to surf some perfect years and I’v been wanting to do that for the last five years,” Enever said. “Lately I’ve been grinding away in contests and to be able to get away and chase a swell made all the difference. It feels so good, it’s almost a relief to win something again and in front of the home crowd makes it even better.”


Caption: Kolohe Andino going big at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Mateia Hiquily (Tahiti) has been the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing surprise package, taking down big names the likes of Mick Fanning, Ryan Callinan, Billy Stairmand, and Joan Duru all the way to a runner-up finish. Hiquily surfed through a sever shoulder injury that almost saw him pull out of the event two weeks ago. Luckily for him and the surf fans on Manly beach he was able to pull on the contest jersey and still perform massive airs and explosive turns.

“I’m speechless right now, I’m so happy!” Hiquily said. “I trained really hard for this event, then two weeks ago hurt my shoulder so I’ve been taking it easy and it worked for me. I won a QS at home in Tahiti last year but it was a small one, so to now get a 2nd place at a QS6000 is huge for my confidence.”

Tyler Wright (Sth Coast, NSW/AUS) put up a great fight in the Final, but was unable to get past the in-form Enever. Wright and Enever both had a 7.77 in their scoreline, so it was a battle for the bigger back-up. In the last minute Wright was given her chance, but fell short by 0.83.

“This has been a great warm-up event for me and I feel ready now before heading to Snapper Rocks for the opening CT event of the year,” Wright said. “To surf the Final with another Australian and a big crowd on the beach was awesome. Big crowds are a lot of fun here at Manly and Laura (Enever) deserved the win - she was the standout all week!”

Tatiana Weston-Webb (Hawaii) finished equal 3rd place after being eliminated in the Semifinals by Enever. Weston-Webb has been one of the standout surfers of the event and even performed the ’turn of the event’ according to the WSL Judging panel.

“I’ve really enjoyed my week in Manly, it’s been a really fun event,” Weston-Webb said. “It’s always tough to lose, especially so close to the Final. I’m feeling a little let down because I really thought that I’d make the Final so it’s disappointing, but Semis is a great result.”


Caption: Ryan Callinan equal 3rd at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Ryan Callinan (Newcastle, NSW/AUS) is heading into his hometown event in Newcastle next week full of confidence after finishing 3rd at Manly. Callinan’s Semifinal was one of the best and most exciting heats of the whole event as he battled back and forth with the young Tahitian, both surfers netted excellent scores, but it was Hiquily who was given the nod by the judges.

“This event seems like everyone has stepped up their game, there was big scores in every heat,” Callinan said. “To have my first Semifinal in years and to lose with some solid scores means that Mateia (Hiquily) must have been going pretty good out there. The next event starts tomorrow in my hometown, I’ve never really done well there — the pressure gets to me. Hopefully the confidence I have after today will mean I’ll be able to go well at the next one too.”
 
 
More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com



AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
Quarterfinalists Decided at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Quarterfinalists Decided at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

14/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7949900

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Laura Enever on her way to eliminating Stephanie Gilmore at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Quarterfinalists Decided at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing
 
MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Saturday, February 14, 2015) - The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing ran through Round 5 in both the men’s and women’s World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) divisions. Top seeds were taken down by rising stars in the fight for a coveted Quarterfinal berth.

Mateia Hiquily (Tahiti) advanced through to the Quarterfinals after an impressive victory over Mick Fanning. Hiquily surfed fast and hard while Fanning struggled to pick off a good wave that would allow him to open up.

“I just tried to surf and enjoy myself — it’s a great opportunity to be in the water with Mick Fanning,” Hiquily said. “I don’t know what to say, he’s one of the best surfers in the world and I will always remember that heat.”


Caption: Jonathan Gonzalez in final eight at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Laura Enever (North Narrabeen, NSW/AUS) also caused an upset when she eliminated reigning six-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS). Enever capitalised when it counted, taking off on a set wave and executing two massive backhand blasts to net an 8.83 and a ticket into the Quarterfinals.

“I was lucky to find that one at the end that allowed me to do those two clean turns,” Enever said. “Steph (Gilmore) only needed a 9 at the end and she’s more than capable so I wasn’t thinking about winning until the very end. Today was the most relaxed I’ve been all event and now I’m into the Quarterfinals so I’m pretty happy.”


Caption: Stephanie Gilmore had plenty of time for her fans after being eliminated at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Ryan Callinan (Newcastle, NSW/AUS) eliminated No. 16 in the world Bede Durbidge (AUS) and in the process launched and landed the best aerial of the day. Callinan will now take on Brazil’s Jesse Mendes in tomorrow’s Quarterfinals.

“I haven’t made the Quarters in a big event in a while,” Callinan said. “It feels amazing to be getting big scores and I feel like I know what I need to do to win. This year I really wan to qualify for the Championship Tour — that’s my goal. I haven’t been doing many airs lately, but I had so much speed and there was a dreamy air section so I went for it.” 


Caption: Nikki Van Dijk eliminated former World Champion Carissa Moore at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Kolohe Andino (San Clemente, CA/USA) and Jack Freestone (AUS) went toe to toe and blow for blow in one of the most exciting heats of the event thus far. Both surfers locked in two excellent rides, for technical aerials and critical turns, but it was Andino who took the win by less than half a point.

“Jack’s (Freestone) a really good surfer and I look up to him a lot,” Andino said. “I knew I was going to have to be on my game to win that one. It’s bad luck for him, to surf that good and still lose the heat. I’m glad to make it through to Finals day and hopefully it’s my day tomorrow.”

Bronte Macaulay (Margaret River, WA/AUS) is continuing to impress on this year’s QS, with a 5th and a 2nd place finish already locked into her 2015 account. Today she knocked Johanne Defay (FRA) out of the event to secure a Quarterfinal match-up against Tyler Wright (AUS).

“I’m really happy right now!” Macaulay said. “It feels great to be through to the Quarters because it’s probably the hardest QS field I’ve ever seen. I’m just really enjoying my surfing at the moment and when you’re having fun the results can go your way.”
 
More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com



AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Stage Set For Massive Weekend Showdown at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Stage Set For Massive Weekend Showdown at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

13/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7928917

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Kolohe Andino launching into the next round at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Stage Set For Massive Weekend Showdown at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing
 
MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Friday, February 13, 2015) - The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing reduced both the men’s and women’s fields to just 16 surfers in the World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) divisions. The surf conditions continued to improve and the performance level of from the world’s best was also on the rise, setting the stage for an epic weekend of Finals action.

Sage Erickson (Santa Barbara, CA/USA) put an exclamation point on a great day of surfing, scoring a near-perfect 9.57 for three explosive backhand turns in the last heat of the day. Erickson will be re-joining the Championship Tour (CT) this year after a stellar 2014 QS campaign and after posting the highest score of the women’s event and finishing ahead of Carissa Moore (HAW) she’ll be one to watch this season.

“Coming into this event last year I had just fallen off Tour, but this year I’m back on so it feels different,” Erickson said. “I had a lot of time last year to work on my skill and technique and I’m excited to be able to put that to work today. It’s really gratifying putting work in and seeing the results.”

Alessa Quizon (Oahu, Hawaii), last year’s Hurley Australian Open of Surfing runner-up was in great form at Manly Beach today, unloading fast and critical backhand blasts to secure one of the coveted spots in the next Round. Quizon will take on fellow Hawaiian Tatiana Weston-Webbtomorrow for a spot in the Quarterfinals.

“It’s good to have some bigger waves, but it’s still tricky out there,” Quizon said. “You have to be patient and wait for the good ones. It would be nice to make the Final again, but I don’t want to put pressure on myself so I’m just focusing on the next heat.”


Caption: Sally Fitzgibbons putting on a show at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Sally Fitzgibbons (Sth Coast, NSW/AUS) finished 0.37 behind Quizon in an exciting back and forth battle to advance in 2nd position while Philippa Anderson (AUS) was eliminated in 3rd. Fitzgibbons won this event back in 2012 and is hungry to go all the way again this year. 

“This event is going to be a tough one to win,” Fitzgibbons said. “There’s 15 of the top 17 female surfers in the world here, plus a bunch of hungry QS surfers who want to have a good start to the year. I’ve got to be on my toes, but it’s a great way to warm up for the year ahead. I’ve been soaking up the home crowd support — a lot of people from my home town have come up to see me surf live and it’s great to have them in my corner."


Caption: Adrian Buchan has been fire at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Adrian Buchan (Avoca, NSW/AUS) stormed into the next Round of the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, posting the highest heat total of the morning - 17.60. Buchan surfed fast and hard and attributed his good form to being fit an fired up and putting together a pre season training program.

“This has become a really prestigious event,” Buchan said. “All the guys love coming to Sydney and hanging in Manly. This weekend’s going to be exciting, we will have some good waves and I’m sure we will have loads of people catching the ferry over from the city to check it out.”

Stephanie Gilmore (Coolangatta, QLD/AUS), reigning six-time World Champion powered though her heat at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing while Frankie Harrer (USA) also advanced in 2nd position and Miho Ihara (JPN) was eliminated in 3rd. This is Gilmore’s first event since she claimed her sixth Title in Hawaii in December.

“This is my first time at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing and I’m loving it so far,” Gilmore said. “I’m a little more relaxed at this event than I am at a Championship Tour event, but at the same time as soon as I put the contest rashie on I get the nerves and excitement just like any other event. The crew at Hurley have done a great job at this event, they’ve made sure it’s classy and fun and the atmosphere is great.”

Caption: Laura Enever laying down a solid turn. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)
 

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

More hi-res images available here -  http://media.aspaustralasia.com.au/index.gallery.php?gid=469

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Top Seeds Tear Through Draw at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Top Seeds Tear Through Draw at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

12/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7905738

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Sally Fitzgibbons starting her 2015 season with a solid performance at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Top Seeds Tear Through Draw at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing
 
MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Thursday, February 12, 2015) - The big guns all hit the water at Manly Beach for the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing in both men’s and women’s World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) divisions. The increase in swell arrived and the world’s best didn’t disappoint as 24 action packed heats were run and won, setting the stage for an epic showdown for the final three days of competition.


Caption: Stephanie Gilmore floating into the next Round. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Stephanie Gilmore (Coolangatta, QLD/AUS), reigning six-time World Champion started her 2015 competitive campaign with a heat win at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, finishing a mere 0.33 ahead of Victorian Georgia Fish. Gilmore will now take on Frankie Harrer (USA) and Miho Ihara (JPN) in the next Round.

“I was a little bit shaky and not performing at my best, but that happens first heat sometimes,” Gilmore said. “It’s good to get that heat out of the way. It’s hard to get back into competition mode after a couple months of holiday mode. It’s fun though — I really enjoy this event, the crowd down here is awesome!”


Caption: NZ's Billy Stairmand throwing a mountain of spray. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Billy Stairmand (Raglan, NZ) threw caution to the wind in the dying stages of his Round 3 heat, unloading a series of powerful and precise carves and tail whips to leapfrog Mick Fanning (Coolangatta, QLD/AUS) and jump into 1st position. 

“It’s great to have a heat with Mick Fanning, he’s such a good guy and one of my idols,” Stairmand said. “I like going left, I’m from Raglan so I’m always excited when a left pops up. That was a crucial heat, everyone was getting good scores and I was lucky to get that good left at the end.”


Caption: Mick Fanning ditching his fins and making heats at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Fanning, three-time World Champion and Hurley Australian Open of Surfing No. 1 seed finished 0.17 behind Stairmand and advanced into Round 4 in 2nd position. Fanning used his trademark lightning fast turns and carves to post some solid scores and will now face Michael February (ZAF) and Jonathan Gonzalez (CNY) in the next Round.

“I put some early scores on the board and was out in front for a while,” Fanning said. “Then Billy (Stairmand) got that 8.67 which was a pretty sick wave to take the lead and I’m stoked for him. After Pipe I didn’t surf for a while, I went snowboarding in the US with my wife, which was fun until I hit a rock and hurt my hip. So I spent another week not surfing and fixing that up, but I’m better now and it’s great to be getting back into things.”

Sally Fitzgibbons (Sth Coast, NSW/AUS) was in fine form in her opening heat of the season, posting a near-perfect 9.43 for a combination of smooth and sharp snaps and carves. This is the closest event to Fitzgibbons’ hometown and she had plenty of friends and family on the beach for support.

“This event is great preparation for us leading into the first CT event at Snapper,” Fitzgibbons said. “The level of talent at this event is really high, most of the CT surfers are here. Everyone loves competing in Manly, it’s such an iconic surfing spot and has a great place in our history - plus it’s always a pleasure to surf in front of a big crowd.”


Caption: Alejo Muniz giving his all at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Alejo Muniz (Brazil) failed to re-qualify for the Championship Tour (CT) last year and has been in impressive form at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing at Manly Beach this week and is hungry to reclaim his spot amongst the elite Top 34.

“I got on the CT four years ago, but I’m off the Tour now, I’m really focused to get back on there,” Muniz said. “It’s important to have a good start to the year and I’m feeling good and hope that I can continue to improve at this event and throughout the rest of the year.”

Ryan Callinan (Newcastle, NSW/AUS) posted an impressive heat win over heavyweights Bede Durbidge (AUS), Mitch Crews (AUS) and Jake Halstead (USA) who finished 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectively. Callinan’s polished backhand attack saw him light up the line-up at Manly beach netting two solid scores and a ticket into the next round.

“The waves are really good today,” Callinan said. “The rights have nice walls on them and I love surfing on my backhand. We had small surf earlier in the event so I’m really glad that I’m still going — it’s the worst to lose out in an event before the surf gets good. It’s great to be in these top rated QS events and surf against the best guys in the world, I really want to get on the CT and events like this are the perfect preparation.”

Carissa Moore (Hawaii), two-time World Champion had slow start to her Hurley Australian Open of Surfing campaign, but fought back hard in the second half of the heat to clock a 9.10 and an 8.00 in the final heat of the day.
 

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

More hi-res images available here -  http://media.aspaustralasia.com.au/index.gallery.php?gid=469

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Top Seeds Take On Rising Stars at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Top Seeds Take On Rising Stars at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

10/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7852628

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Mick Fanning laying down a solid turn in his first heat of the year at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)


Top Seeds Take On Rising Stars at Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Tuesday, February 10, 2015) The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing saw the men’s top seeds hit the water for the World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) division while the women had the day off. An improvement on yesterday’s surf conditions at Manly Beach saw plenty of big moves and excellent scores being thrown in the fight for all-important ranking’s points and prize-money.

Mateia Hiquily (Tahiti) almost pulled out of the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing two weeks ago when he broke his shoulder, but a speedy recovery and strong will saw him come out firing in Manly. Hiquily was in last place in the dying moments of his Round of 96 battle when he stroked into a set wave and tore it to bits punctuating the wave by launching and landing a huge aerial on the end to jump into 1st position and advance.

“I broke my shoulder two weeks ago and was considering not coming to Australia,” Hiquily said. “But I wanted to try and make the most of the opportunity to surf in this event. I had my first surf in my heat yesterday and it felt okay. The surf here is quite small so I didn’t think it would pop out again. When you’re fourth and you jump to first at the end of the heat it’s always a good feeling.”


Caption: Nathan Hedge (AUS) was another Round 2 winner at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)
 
Mick Fanning (Coolangatta, QLD/AUS), three-time World Champion and Hurley Australian Open of Surfing No. 1 seed came flying out of the gates and posted two excellent scores in the opening minutes of his first heat of 2015. Fanning held the lead until the last 30 seconds when he was overtaken by Hiquily, but he was able to advance in 2nd position.

“This is my first time at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing and it’s been great so far,” Fanning said. “I was tossing up going to Newcastle or coming here and I thought coming here would give me an extra week at home to prepare for the Championship Tour event on the Gold Coast. You never know how you’re going to go for your first heat of the year and there are so many exciting kids in the event. It’s exciting to see the talent coming through and to begin my 2015 campaign.”

Caption: Peru's Miguel Tudela throwing some heat at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Mason Ho (Hawaii), fresh from a runner-up finish at the QS3000 event at Pipe in Hawaii had no problems transitioning to the small surf in Manly today. Ho used his trademark energetic approach to post an impressive heat win with South Africa’s Michael February also advancing in 2nd position and Keanu Asing (HAW) and Gony Zubizarreta (ESP) eliminated in 3rd and 4th.

“Manly is one of my favourite places — there’s so many cool people and always something going on,” Ho said. “My Dad has always taught me the importance of being able to enjoy all kinds of waves, so going from big waves in Hawaii to small waves here isn’t hard for me, it’s actually really fun. It’s good to be back competing and traveling, I’m excited for the year ahead.”

Caption: Californian Conner Coffin was among the morning standouts. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

David do Carmo (BRA) took out a drama filled heat with Sydney’s own Kai Otton (AUS) also advancing in 2nd position — Thomas Woods (AUS) and Kaito Ohashi (JPN) were eliminated in 3rd and 4th place. While do Carmo was using his speed and power to clock up an important Heat win Woods was being chaired up the beach by fellow Australians Jay Thompson and Lincoln Taylor due to injury. Woods launched into an air-reverse and landed in the flat section out the front of the wave and instantly grabbed his knee in pain.

“I saw that he was hurt and I hope he’s alright,“ do Carmo said. “He’s a great surfer and it’s always sad to see someone get injured. That win is important for me, it’s my second time here at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing and I love it. This is a long way from Brazil so to win heats is very important for us.”

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Coleborn Stars on Day 3 of Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Coleborn Stars on Day 3 of Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

09/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7825366

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Mitch Coleborn putting on a show at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)


Coleborn Stars on Day 3 of Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Monday, February 9, 2015) - MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Monday, February 7, 2015) - The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing men’s and women’s World Surf League (WSL) QS6000 (Qualifying Series) divisions hit the water with plenty of fiery match-ups in the fight for all-important QS rankings points and prize-money. Manly Beach delivered small but punchy surf today and event officials are eyeing an increase for the coming weekend for a potential finish in great waves.

Mitch Coleborn (Sunshine Coast, QLD/AUS) was the standout performer of the day — whipping tight and critical turns to score a monster 9.33 with a backup score of 8.00 to notch an easy heat win and advance into the next Round. Coleborn was in sync with the ocean and attributed his success to the WSL’s newly activated four man priority system at the QS6000 events. 

“It’s so good to have priority in these QS6000 events now as it eliminates the hassling and takes all the nerves aways for me,” Coleborn said. “It’s good to be back in Manly — summer in Australia is a great way to start the competitive year, hopefully I can have a few more heats like that one.”

Caption: Felicity Palmateer getting back into the competitive groove at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Felicity Palmateer (Margaret River, WA/AUS) posted an impressive win in her first QS heat for 2015, she missed the previous events to focus on her art exhibition, but arrived in Manly to shift her focus back to surfing. Palmateer used her forehand power hacks to carve out some decent scores to advance into the next Round where she will face reigning six-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), Justine Dupont (FRA) and Georgia Fish (AUS).

“I had an art exhibition that I’ve been focusing on before this event and I think that worked to my advantage. I usually obsess over the contest and getting through heats, but here I just rocked up and went out and got through my heat. The surf is quite small, but I love going left so I made the most of it and I’m really happy with how today went.”

Isabelle Nichols (Sunshine Coast, QLD/AUS), who yesterday advanced into the Final of the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Pro Junior  was on fire once again today. Nichols top scored in the women’s division netting a solid 16.60 (out of a possible 20) for her sharp and fast approach.

“My confidence has build with every heat so I’m feeling really good at this event,” Nichols said. “It was really fun out there. I know it sounds corny, but I wasn’t thinking about the heat I was trying to have fun so lets hope that keeps working for me. This is such a massive event, the site is so big and there’s a lot of people watching but I just have to try not to think about that.”

Caption: Michael February's backhand whip at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing today. Credit: WSL/Matt Dunbar (Click here to download hi-res image)

Michael February (South Africa) won his first heat of 2015 at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing today, using his lightning fast backhand hooks to glide into the next Round. February hasn’t competed since November and was able to overcome the nerves and fight through a tough heat.

“I haven’t surfed in a contest since November so it felt really weird going into that heat,” February said. “There’s been lots of good waves at home, but where I live is often like this so I’ve been able to prepare for all conditions. I’ve got a good enough seed to get into all the QS6000 events, but I really want to improve my position so I can get into the QS10,000s.”

Jean Da Silva (Brazil) scored a coveted Round 1 heat win in one of the tightest heats of the day. All four surfers had decent scores in their accounts, but it was the Brazilian’s 8.83 (out of a possible 10) that was the difference and saw him take top position.

“There’s a lot of Brazilians here in Manly and we’re all still feeding off Gabriel Medina’s first World Title win last year,” Da Silva said. “I always knew we would have a World Champion from Brazil, but seeing it happen has fired us all up. It’s great to be here, the waves in that heat were like a left hand point so I was loving it out there.”

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Juniors Down To Final Six

Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Juniors Down To Final Six

08/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7802137

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: Jacob Willcox scoring an exciting last minute Quarterfinal win at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)


Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Juniors Down To Final Six 

MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Sunday, February 7, 2015) - The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing World Surf League (WSL) men’s and women’s junior divisions started with a field of over 100 exciting up-and-coming surfers and today that was culled to just six. The women’s event ran through three rounds of competition to decide the two Finalists while the men’s four Semifinalists were locked in.

Kanoa Igarashi (USA) put on a clinical display in his Quarterfinal win over fellow event standout Jordy Lawler (North Narrabeen, NSW/AUS). Igarashi linked explosive turns together seemingly with ease in the difficult conditions and clocked a massive two-wave heat total of 17.75 (out of a possible 20).

“This is probably the best board I’ve ever had!” Igarashi said. “I got it made in a rush right before I came here and Channel Islands were able to do some magic for me. The last couple of days has been a great warm up for the QS6000, but the Juniors is a big event too — full of amazing surfers so I’m super excited to be into Semis.”

Jacob Willcox (Margaret River, WA/AUS), reigning Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Pro Junior champion posted an impressive come from behind victory in his Quarterfinal clash against Hawaiian Joshua Moniz. Willcox was left chasing a solid score after Moniz landed some early aerials to post some mid-range scores. In the last two minutes Willcox posted an 8.50, the highest single wave score of the heat to steal the win and book a spot in the Semifinals.

“It’s great to have priority in the Finals because you don’t need to worry about hassling for waves,” Willcox said. “As soon as Josh (Moniz) let priority go near the end I knew I was still in with a chance. I remember this day last year — I was thinking how good it would be to be one of the last four guys in the event. It’s been a massive day, I’ve surfed three heats so I’m pretty tired, but I’m really happy.”

Caption: Isabella Nichols powering through to her first ever WSL Junior Final. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)

Isabella Nichols (Sunshine Coast, QLD/AUS) took out the reigning World Junior Champion Mahina Maeda (HAW) in an exciting Semifinal match-up. Nichols and Maeda have both been in great form so far at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, but it was Nichols who struck when it counted most — advancing to a WSL Junior Tour Final for her first time.

“That was my first ever pro junior Semi, so to now be in the Final feels amazing,” Nichols said. “The surf today is what my home break is like all the time, so I felt really comfortable out there. I just tried to wait for the big ones and do some turns — it can be hard work, but it’s worth it now to be in the Final.

Macy Callaghan (Avoca, NSW/AUS) also advanced into the Final and will take on Nichols in the coming days.

Caption: Noosa's Harry Bryant also advanced into the Semifinals today. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)

The Qualifying Series (QS) Men’s and Women’s QS6000 divisions will start on Monday and will see a week of non-stop action at Manly Beach. The action won’t be confined to the water with skateboarding demos and competitions, music concerts, art displays and more.

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Future Surf Stars Launch 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

Future Surf Stars Launch 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing

08/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7790885

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S PRESS IMAGE GALLERY

Caption: North Narrabeen's Jordy Lawler finding form at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)


Future Surf Stars Launch 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing 

MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Saturday, February  7, 2015) - The Hurley Australian Open of Surfing commenced in clean two-to-three foot (1m) surf at Manly Beach today with an international field contesting both the Men’s and Women’s World Surf League (WSL) Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) divisions.

Chris Zaffis (Angourie, NSW/AUS) was among the early standouts, winning, an intensely anticipated heat that included top seeds Kai Hing (Sunshine Coast, QLD/AUS) and Ethan Ewing (North Stradbroke, QLD/AUS).

Ewing received a penalty interference that virtually guaranteed his elimination, while Zaffis avoided any hassles and let his surfing do the talking. His sharp turns and inverted aerials saw him finish advancing ahead of Hing in second, with Ewing eliminated in third along with local Northern Beaches surfer Luca Elder (Bungan, NSW) bowing out in fourth.

“It felt good to get a few early waves and pull a few moves off,” said Zaffis. “There was a lot of hassling going on, the surf was small and there wasn’t a lot of waves. I just tried to focus on what I wanted to do and not get caught up in it all.”

Caption: Kai Hing going big in the small surf. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)

Hing was usurped by Ewing in a final during their most recent match up and was was relieved to advance behind Zaffis.

“There was a lot of paddling and hassling going on — everyone surfs so well and everyone wants to win so it can get intense. I was a little nervous at the end, Ethan had an interference, but still only needed a small score to get through and he’s more than capable, so I’m stoked to get through,” said Hing.

Caption: Kanoa Igarashi making himself at home in Manly. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)

International stand-out, Kanoa Igarashi (USA) from Huntington Beach, CA, USA felt right at home in Manly’s small but fun waves today. Igarashi linked multiple big backhand turns together to notch an easy Round 1 win.

“There’s only a limited amount of waves and everyone wants to be on the best ones — it comes down to who’s in the right spot when they come through,” Igarashi said. “I like these waves a lot, it feels a lot like home. I also have the best possible board for these conditions so I’m feeling really good and looking forward to the rest of the event.”

Jordy Lawler (Narrabeen, NSW, AUS) was looking down the barrel of a first Round loss at his local event with just poor throwaway scores by the halfway mark of his heat. The Narrabeen local was able to shift gears however, posting an excellent 8.90 and an 8.50 in quick succession to claim a heat win and the highest two-wave heat total of the Round.

“I fell on my first couple waves and I was stressing out!” Lawler said. “Then I found this long left that hit the bank really nice and I started to feel confident again and by the end of the heat I wasn’t event thinking about the event I was just trying to surf and find more of those fun lefts - I love surfing waves like that.”

Caption: Mahina Maeda continuing her red hot run of form at the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)

Mahina Maeda (HAW), reigning World Junior Champion and Tahitian Mihimana Braye (PYF) were also among the day’s standout surfers, posting excellent scores for fast and powerful surfing, impressing the hundreds of onlookers on Sydney’s iconic Manly Beach. 

The Qualifying Series (QS) Men’s and Women’s QS6000 divisions will start on Mondayand will see a week of non-stop action at Manly Beach. The action won’t be confined to the water with skateboarding demos and competitions, music concerts, art displays and more.

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
READ MORE
Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Prepares To Take Over Manly Beach

Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Prepares To Take Over Manly Beach

06/02/2015, Australia, Surfing, Surfing Australia, Article # 7742487

World Surf League

CLICK HERE FOR PRESS IMAGE ARCHIVE FROM LAST YEAR'S EVENT

Caption: Last year's event champion Carissa Moore will be back next week to defend her title. Credit: WSL/Will H-S (Click here to download hi-res image)


Hurley Australian Open of Surfing Prepares To Take Over Manly Beach

MANLY BEACH, Sydney, NSW/AUS (Friday, February  6, 2015) - Sydney is preparing for its biggest surfing event of the year the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing at Manly Beach. This award winning World Surf League (WSL) event sees the world’s best surfers fighting of all-important Qualifying Series (QS) points and prize-money in Men’s and Women’s QS6000 divisions. The event will begin tomorrow starting with the Junior Qualifying Series (JQS) men’s and women’s divisions where Australasia’s best young surfers will kick off proceedings, giving us a front row seat to see the future surfing stars of the Asia Pacific region.

This year’s event will see reigning six-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) compete for the first time since winning her sixth crown in Maui, Hawaii last year. The rest of the top five female surfers will also be out to capture the prestigious event title including Tyler Wright (AUS), Carissa Moore (HAW), Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) and Malia Manuel (HAW).   

On the men’s side of things three-time World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS) will be the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing’s No. 1 seed and will be competing at this event for his first time. American surfer Kolohe Andino (USA) continued his impressive form from last season to win the first QS event of 2015 on home soil in California last month and as No. 2 seed at this event will be one to watch as the event moves towards the business end.

The event has also handed out wildcards to ensure that the region’s most exciting up-and-coming talent get a chance to mix it with the world’s best. Last year’s Australasia JQS No. 1 and 2 Soli Baliley and Jacob Willcox will get a start in the seeded Round of 96 and younger brother of Owen and Tyler — Mikey Wright received a wildcard into the Round of 144.

“I’m stoked to get a run with some of the best surfers in the world,” Mikey Wright said. “I can’t wait to get in the water at Manly and surf my first heat for the year. Thanks to the team at WSL Australasia for showing faith in me. I hope I can repay that with a good showing.”

More info www.AustralianOpenofSurfing.com

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING
The 2015 Hurley Australian Open of Surfing, owned and operated by IMG, will run from 7 – 15 February. The nine day, one-of-a-kind festival will bring together some of the world’s top athletes in surfing and skateboarding combined with two days of live concerts on the Channel [V] music stage, art/photo installations and interactive sponsor displays – all taking place on iconic Manly Beach, Sydney
 
All events are free and open to the public. Live webcast can be viewed atwww.australianopenofsurfing.com. The surfing event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports at the following times:
 
Friday Feb 13 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 2
Saturday Feb 14 - 0730 – 1430 – Fox Sports 4
Sunday Feb 15 - 0730 – 1600 – Fox Sports 4
 
It will also be broadcast internationally via a highlights show, bringing all the action to over 110 countries across the globe.
 
ABOUT HURLEY 
The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change.  With deep roots in beach culture, we are all about inclusion and positivity. Our brand was started with the idea of facilitating the dreams of the youth.  Music and art are the common threads that bring us all together.  We are passionate about freedom of expression and the individual voice.  We place a premium on smiles.  Welcome to our world, imagine the possibilities http://www.hurleyau.com Orhttp://facebook.com/HurleyAus
 
ABOUT DESTINATION NSW
Destination NSW is the lead NSW Government agency for tourism and major events sectors. The NSW Government, through Destination NSW, assisted with securing the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing for Manly in 2015.

The role of Destination NSW is to market Sydney and NSW as one of the world’s premier tourism and major events destinations; to secure major sporting and cultural events; to work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to win major international conventions and incentive travel reward programs; to develop and deliver initiatives that will drive visitor growth throughout the State; and to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of doubling expenditure within the State’s visitor economy by 2020.
About the World Surf League
The World Surf League (WSL) organizes the annual tour of professional surf competitions and broadcasts each event live at WorldSurfLeague.com where you can experience the athleticism, drama and adventure of competitive surfing -- anywhere and anytime it’s on. The WSL sanctions and operates the following tours: the Junior Tour, Longboard Tour, the Qualifying Series (QS), the Big Wave Tour and the crown jewel of the sport, the WSL Championship Tour (CT) which determines the sport's undisputed world champions. The organization is headquartered in Santa Monica, California with Commercial Offices in New York. The offices are supported by regional centers in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, North America and South America.
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