Stephanie Gilmore wins the Cascais Women’s Pro

Stephanie Gilmore celebrates her victory. Picture courtesy of ASP/Masurel

Stephanie Gilmore claims victory at the Cascais Women’s Pro after defeating Sally Fitzgibbons during the finals. The pair battled it out at the backup site of Bafureira in two-to-four foot conditions – with Gilmore posting the days only nine point ride.

Todays final saw Fitzgibbons and Gilmore go head-to-head for the third time this season, having previously matched up in Fiji and Lower Trestles. It also marks Gilmore’s third victory of 2014, after taking the win at the Roxy Pro Gold Coast and the Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles – placing her at No. 1 in the world rankings.

Gilmore projected confidence throughout the event, despite her round one stumble at the hands of Laura Enever, she dispatched Lakey Peterson and Tyler Wright en route to the final.
“I can’t believe I won this event,” Said Gilmore. “I was struggling in these waves but I managed to find two pretty decent scoring rides. Sally was super tough to beat and that was a really hard one, it’s so crazy, I’m so happy I won! I’ve had such an incredible time here in Portugal, Cascais, it’s such a beautiful town and I think when you feel happy in the place that you are you always seem to get good results.”

Fitzgibbons performed well throughout the competition, winning each of her heats before the final matchup against Gilmore. She had some strong competitors, facing Courtney Conlogue in the quarterfinals and Malia Manuel in the semifinals, but she fought hard and consistently posted high scores to make it to the finals. However, todays result see’s her move to No. 2 in the rankings.
“It was an amazing battle and a great final,” said Fitzgibbons. “Unfortunately I fell one short, but I’ll pick myself up and keep moving forward. I’ve been coming to Portugal now for a number of years and every time I’ve been greeted with such warmth and I couldn’t have asked for much more. To come in and be the runner up and still have amazing fans cheering for me on the beach, that’s really special and very memorable.”

Tyler Wright leaves competition in and equal third, after her defeat at the hands of Gilmore in the semifinals. Her win against Johanne Defay in the quarterfinals kept her world title hopes alive, and ended Gilmore’s chances of becoming the World Champion in Portugal.
“It’s really cool to send the Title Race to Maui,” said Wright. “All I really strive to do is my own thing, anything else is a bonus on top of that so I’m pretty happy. It was definitely a tough heat but the girls are all ripping and I’m just having fun doing what I’m doing.”

The biggest upset of the day was caused by Malia Manuel during the quarterfinals; she eliminated the reigning two-time World Champ, Carissa Moore, ending her hopes of claiming the world title for a third consecutive year.
“If I could do the heat differently I would try to be in a better rhythm with thew ocean. I feel like I didn’t gave that many opportunities to really my thing,” said Moore. “I just have to go back and look at the heat analyser and learn from my mistakes whatever they are. I’m going to focus on the next event and I’m so excited o go home and compete in front of my home crowd.”

Malia Manuel went on to face Fitzgibbons in the semifinals, but despite scoring an excellent 8.30, she couldn’t find the backup she needed and left competition in an equal fifth place.
“This season has been huge, it’s been phenomenal with the added events,” said Manuel.” The level of surfing is always progressing and this year has been the best so far. I’m just having so much fun. It’s nice to know that you can get a 13th place and then make semifinals in the next event and progress, learn and evolve. I’m looking forward to finish up in Hawaii, it’s going to be awesome and it’s good to go home and see friends and family.”

For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Cascais Women’s Pro Final Results:

1 – Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.36
2 – Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 14.44

Cascais Women’s Pro Semifinal Results (1st Advances to Final, 2nd Finished Equal 3rd):
Semifinal 1: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 17.04 def. Malia Manuel (HAW) 15.47
Semifinal 2: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.60 def. Tyler Wright (AUS) 14.50

Cascais Women’s Pro Quarterfinal Results (1st Advances to Semifinals, 2nd Finished Equal 5th):
Heat 1: Malia Manuel (HAW) 11.66 def. Carissa Moore (HAW) 11.10
Heat 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.87 def. Courtney Conlogue (USA) 12.30
Heat 3: Tyler Wright (AUS) 14.23 def. Johanne Defay (FRA) 7.83
Heat 4: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 13.67 def. Lakey Peterson (USA) 13.50

ASP Women’s WCT Top 5 (after Cascais Women’s Pro):
1. Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 64,200 pts
2. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 60,700 pts
3. Tyler Wright (AUS) 59,400 pts
4. Carissa Moore (HAW) 56,600 pts
5. Malia Manuel (HAW) 43,600 pts

Moore dominates on day 2 of the Cascais Women’s Pro

Defending event winner Carissa Moore flies through to the quarterfinals. Picture courtesy of ASP/Masurel

The Cascais Women’s Pro got underway today for rounds two, three, and the first two heats of round four, in clean three-to-five foot conditions at Carcavelos.

Carissa Moore, Sally Fitzgibbons, and Stephanie Gilmore sailed through round three, securing spots in the quarterfinals and staying in contention for the World Title. Tyler Wright, however, was not on usual form and will have to surf again in her round three match-up against Pauline Ado.

The reigning two-time world champ, Carissa Moore, was on fire today in round three, when she put opponents Malia Manuel and Paige Hareb in a combination situation on her first two waves. Manuel fought back hard — posting the first nine-point ride of the day with less than five minutes on the clock, but it wasn’t enough. In the final moments an exciting exchange took place, when Moore coming out on top delivered a grab rail reverse to secure her place in the quarterfinals and put the pressure on Gilmore’s world title charge. Moore, the defending event winner, posted a total of 16.70 — the highest score of the competition so far. Manuel went on to defeat Laura Enever in round four and will join Moore in the quarterfinals.

“I was having a lot of fun out there. The conditions seemed to get more consistent, and some of the sections just allowed me to really play with the wave and be progressive,” said Moore. “I’m just going to keep building momentum, having a really good time and I’m stoked to be in the quarterfinals.”

Gilmore was back on form today, wasting no time in opening her round two campaign, she posted a 7.17 in the early moments of the heat, for a smooth rail-to-rail approach on a clean righthander. Despite Teresa Bonvalot’s efforts to comeback into battle, Gilmore controlled the lineup and picked the best waves to post two more solid scores and take the win.

The five-time world champ then kept up her momentum, dominating her heat in round three against Lakey Peterson and Pauline Ado. The potential for a World Title crown in Portugal pushed Gilmore’s performance level to new heights.

“Round two is not exactly the place you want to be at, especially at this point in time,” Gilmore said. “But maybe it’s what I needed, something to make me aggressive and more assertive in the lineup. I’m happy to skip round four and advance to the quarterfinals.” 

Current World No. 1, Sally Fitzgibbons, secured a place in the quarterfinals — keeping her in stead on the world title race. Fitzgibbons capitalised on medium-sized waves, working through a tricky lineup to post two big scores and keep her opponents, Courtney Conlogue and Laura Enever, at a distance.  Conlogue went on to defeat Paige Hareb in round four, and will face Fitzgibbons again in the quarterfinals.

“As we’ve changed site to Carcavelos today, I wanted to get down to the beach early in the morning to get in tune with the power of the waves, figure out what the banks were doing and try to piece together the best formula,” said Fitzgibbons. “The fans on the beach here in Portugal are so passionate about the sport and that makes it such a pleasure to compete and do battle in front of them.”

Tyler Wright began strong in round three, with a nice righthander and two big turns for a good 6.50 and an early lead. But it was all down hill from there, Johanne Defay chose a different approach, and sat wider to start on the lefthanders. Defay eventually caught a decent set, to perform three radical backside hacks for a 7.93 and one of the biggest upsets of the day. Defay reaches the quarterfinals for the fifth time in a row.

“I’m feeling great and I’m really that I made it through round three,” said Defay. “It was more consistent now than this morning, but it was still a bit tricky as the peak is moving and that makes it hard to find the right spot. I was lucky that I managed to catch two good lefts in the end.” 

Highlights: Title Race Ramps up in Cascais:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Cascais Women’s Pro Round 2 Results (1st Advances to Round 3, 2nd Finishes in Equal 13th):
Heat 1: Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 11.00 def. Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 10.87
Heat 2: Johanne Defay (FRA) 10.50 def. Alessa Quizon (HAW) 6.00
Heat 3: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 14.17 def. Teresa Bonvalot (PRT) 10.56
Heat 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) 16.33 def. Alana Blanchard (HAW) 8.33
Heat 5: Paige Hareb (NZL) 12.50 def. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 3.73
Heat 6: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 14.77 def. Coco Ho (HAW) 9.16

Cascais Women’s Pro Round 3 Results (1st Advances to Quarterfinals, 2nd & 3rd to Round 4):
Heat 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) 16.70, Malia Manuel (HAW) 13.97, Paige Hareb (NZL) 8.60
Heat 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 16.37, Courtney Conlogue (USA) 11.47, Laura Enever (AUS) 5.07
Heat 3: Johanne Defay (FRA) 15.10, Tyler Wright (AUS) 10.30, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 5.97
Heat 4: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.50, Lakey Peterson (USA) 10.50, Pauline Ado (FRA) 6.50

Cascais Women’s Pro Round 4 Results (1st Advances to Quarterfinals, 2nd Finishes Equal 9th):
Heat 1: Malia Manuel (HAW) 8.20 def. Laura Enever (AUS) 7.70
Heat 2: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 11.83 def. Paige Hareb (NZL) 6.83

Upcoming Cascais Women’s Pro Round 4 Match-Ups:
Heat 3: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Pauline Ado (FRA)
Heat 4: Lakey Peterson (USA) vs. Nikki Van Dijk (AUS)

Cascais Women’s Pro Quarterfinal Match-Ups (1st Advances to Semifinals, 2nd Finishes Equal 5th):
Heat 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Malia Manuel (HAW)
Heat 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Courtney Conlogue (USA)
Heat 3: Johanne Defay (FRA) vs. TBD
Heat 4:  Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) vs. TBD

Tyler Wright dominates the opening day of the Cascais Women’s Pro

Tyler Wright gave a strong performance. Picture courtesy of ASP/Masurel

The Cascais Women’s Pro got underway in clean three foot conditions. The event ran through round one at the back-up site of Guincho.

World Title contenders Sally Fitzgibbons, Tyler Wright, and Carissa Moore all secured round one wins — allowing them to progress directly to round three. But Stephanie Gilmore will have to fight for a place tomorrow after losing to Laura Enever in Heat five.

Tyler Wright, the current world No. 2, fresh from her victory in France, kept her momentum going — posting the highest single-wave score and two-wave heat total of the day. Wright found one of the cleanest waves of the morning to despatch Alana Blanchard and Courtney Conlogue, showcasing her powerful forehand attack in the critical sections of the wave, she took the win and secured a spot in round three.

“Everyone has just arrived from France and it’s hard having back-to-back events, but I think the girls are doing really well. We have fun, funky conditions here today, and I think the girls are making the most out of that,” said Tyler Wright.

Reigning two-time world champ and defending event winner Carissa Moore got off to an explosive start, logging three solid scores in the opening minutes of heat two, and surpassing her opponents Dimity Stoyle and Alessa Quizon. From an early lead, Moore kept up her momentum — surfing twice as much as her adversaries and securing herself a spot in round three.

“Guincho is a tricky beach break, so I just wanted to give myself a lot of opportunities and try to surf as much as I could,” said Carissa Moore. “Every event and every heat is a clean slate, I’m just stoked to be back in Portugal as it holds a very special place in my heart. I really do feel great vibes here and I think we will get a nice few couple of days.”

Sally Fitzgibbons is currently ranked No.1, and for good reason. She took command early during her heat, building on a couple of average scores to quickly move on to near-excellent — logging a solid 15.57 on the board. This left Coco Ho and wildcard Teresa Bonvalot in a combination situation, which allowed her to pass directly to round three.

“It’s a really nice feeling to start the day with some good scores. There’s a few things to work on, but I’m really happy to move through to round three,” said Sally Fitzgibbons. “I feel comfortable competing here in Portugal. I’ve been to probably nine or 10 events here and my surfing really suits the beach-break and conditions.”

Stephanie Gilmore went head-to-head with Laura Enever in heat five. The exciting, 30-minute, ordeal saw Gilmore and Enever fight it out, with Paige Hareb left trailing behind. It was Enever’s backhand that gave her the advantage and eventually the heat, when the five-time world champ fell on her final effort. Enever progresses directly to round three, while Gilmore will face wildcard Teresa Bonvalot in round two.

“The heat with Steph was hard because we are staying together here in Portugal and I’m on Team Steph for the World Title,” said Laura Enever. “But the end of the day I’m here to come as far as I can. I would love to win the event so I’m just trying to do my best. I’m so stoked to skip round two and to be performing and getting some scores.”

Earlier in the day, Pauline Ado took on Malia Manuel and Johanne Defay — sending them both to the elimination round. Ado selected a clean set wave to perform a good turn and finished with a big black on the closing section, logging a 7.50 and her ticket to round three.

“It was really tricky to know which waves to catch but I’m so happy to get the win,” said Pauline Ado. “It’s great for us Europeans to compete on this leg as we have family and friends around. I’ve been competing here Guincho and Carcavelos for many years so it’s a place I’m familiar with. I really want to represent Europe in the best way I can and get some points for the ratings too.” 

Lakey Peterson rounded up the day with a dominant performance, securing her a place in round three. She took on Bianca Buitendag and Nikki Van Dijk — sending them both to the elimination round.

“It’s really nice to skip a round,” said Lakey Peterson. “It felt good out there, I love Portugal, it’s beautiful and I’m just blessed to be here. The title race is so close right now so this is going to be a cracker of an event. I’m here to win, so I’m trying to do that and just focus on my game.”  

For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Cascais Women’s Pro Round 1 Results (1st advances to Round 3, 2nd & 3rd to Round 2):
Heat 1: Pauline Ado (FRA) 13.00, Johanne Defay (FRA) 12.00, Malia Manuel (HAW) 11.84
Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) 13.54, Dimity Stoyle (HAW) 10.67, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 7.40
Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.57, Coco Ho (HAW) 8.24, Teresa Bonvalot (PRT) 6.67
Heat 4: Tyler Wright (AUS) 15.96, Courtney Conlogue (USA) 12.87, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 8.70
Heat 5: Laura Enever (AUS) 14.00, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 13.37, Paige Hareb (NZL) 8.30
Heat 6: Lakey Peterson (USA) 15.07, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 13.10, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 10.00

Cascais Women’s Pro Round 2 Match-Ups:
Heat 1: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) vs. Nikki Van Dijk (AUS)
Heat 2: Johanne Defay (FRA) vs. Alessa Quizon (HAW)
Heat 3: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) vs. Teresa Bonvalot (PRT)
Heat 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) vs. Alana Blanchard (HAW)
Heat 5: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) vs. Paige Hareb (NZL)
Heat 6: Courtney Conlogue (USA) vs. Coco Ho (HAW)

Tyler Wright takes the win at the Roxy Pro France

Tyler Wright takes the win and moves to 2nd place in the world rankings. Picture: ASP/ Scholtz

It was an exciting finals day for the Roxy Pro France at Les Gardians. The World’s top female surfers took to the water in three-to-five foot conditions, running through the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals.

Tyler Wright claimed victory, beating Courtney Conlogue in an intense final.

Wright wasted no time during the final, using powerful and progressive surfing on the righthanders to log some excellent scores. She incorporated some power turns, aerials, and high-speed surfing — claiming the highest heat total of the event an 18.53.

“The conditions were so fun out there and I just got into a great rhythm,” Wright said. “I think my first four waves were all over 9 points so I was really having fun. I’ve had a lot of success here in France over the years and I’m rapt to put another win on the board this year.”

Todays win pushed Wright from 4th to 2nd in the Wold Championship rankings.

Courtney Conlogue was also on good form, besting Bianca Buitendag and Carissa Moore en route to the Final. It’s her second event back since the injury she sustained last season, but she’s reminding the world that she is a threat to the World Title.

“Disappointed to be on the wrong end of that final, but very happy with my result in France,” Conlogue said. “Trestles was disappointing so to come to France and get through a few heats and for my surfing to feel better is great for my confidence.

Johanne Defay put on an incredible performance for her hometown crowd — exploding into the semifinals, where her run came to a halt due to an on form Tyler Wright.

“I have so much support here from my family and friends and the crowd. It makes me feel very special and I hope I can continue to perform in Portugal.”

The reigning two-time world champ wasn’t having the best of days. She managed to overcome a hard fought battle against Stephanie Gilmore, but unfortunately for her she was unable to best Courntey Conlogue during their bout in the semifinals.

“Semifinals is a good finish, but I was hoping to gain more ground on Sally after she went down in the quarterfinals,” Moore said. “Courtney has been surfing so well all event though and I’m happy to see her back and doing well after her injury earlier in the year. It’s a very tight race at the top right now and it should make for an exciting finish to the season.”

Sally Fitzgibbons also lost to the hand of Tyler Wright during their bout in the quarterfinals. However, Fitzgibbons retains the World No. 1 spot heading to Portugal.

The next stop for the ASP Women’s World Championship Tour will be the Casais Women’s Pro from 1st October – 7th. 

Highlights from the Women’s Finals day and Men’s action:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Roxy Pro France Final Results:

1 – Tyler Wright (AUS) 19.20

2 – Courtney Conlogue (USA) 12.43

Roxy Pro France Semifinals Results (1st advances to Finals, 2nd finishes Equal 3rd):

SF 1: Tyler Wright (AUS) 17.00 def. Johanne Defay (FRA) 13.50

SF 2: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 13.77 def. Carissa Moore (HAW) 13.10

Roxy Pro France Quarterfinals Results (1st advances to Semifinals, 2nd finishes Equal 5th):

QF 1: Johanne Defay (FRA) 12.53 def. Malia Manuel (HAW) 8.50

QF 2: Tyler Wright (AUS) 12.53 def. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 12.24

QF 3: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 15.00 def. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 14.20

QF 4: Carissa Moore (HAW) 10.60 def. Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 5.03

World title pressue begins to sink in as Roxy Pro opens

Carissa Moore, reigning two-time world champ, makes it into finals.
Picture courtesy of Poullenot/ ASP

An exciting first day of competition took place at the Roxy Pro France, seeing 17 of the world’s best women surfers take to the water for rounds one, two, and three in three-to-four foot conditions.

Sally Fitzgibbons, currently the World No. 1, has posted two wins this season — at Rio de Janeiro and Fiji — and has longed after the world title for sometime. Her performance started sloppy this morning, losing her opening heat and barely getting through round two, but she found her rhythm in round 3.

“It’s been a long day but it feels good to finish with a strong performance,” said Sally Fitzgibbons. “I was a bit lost in my round one heat this morning and I narrowly escaped Lee-Ann in round two. I think I was just out of rhythm and I felt a lot stronger and a lot more comfortable in this afternoon’s round three. Quarterfinals is a good result already, but I’ll be focused on making another final here in France and hopefully walking away with the win.”

Current ASP World No. 12, Courtney Conlogue, left competition earlier this year after an ankle injury she sustained during training for Bells Beach. Returning for the Swatch Women’s Pro at Trestles last week, her performance was substandard. However, she redeemed herself today after some excellent performances in rounds one and three, solidifying her as a major contender amongst the world’s elite.
“I just feel great being her in France and getting through heats again,” Conolgue expressed. “It was hard to be injured for so long and then to come back at Trestles and not get the result I was hoping for. I’m feeling good and I think I’m surfing strong so it fells amazing to get into the quarterfinals. Hopefully the waves continue to pump.”   

The reigning two-time champ, Carissa Moore, gave a solid performance in her opening round, and fought hard during her round three battle in the final affair of the day.
“It was another great day for women’s surfing,” said Moore. “All the girls are surfing so well this year that anyone can win any heat. Fortunate to be in the quarterfinals and hoping for good conditions for the remainder of the event.”

Malia Manuel made up for her stumble during round one with two impressive performances in rounds two and three, eliminating Alana Blanchard in round two and advancing past Pauline Ado and Tyler Wright in round three.

“I love being back in France and I have some really good boards under my feet,” Manuel said. “I feel like I’ve been surfing well all year and I am confident in competing against the world’s best.”

Carissa Moore’s 9.43:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP   

Roxy Pro France Round 1 Results (1st advances to Round 3, 2nd & 3rd to Round 2):

Heat 1: Pauline Ado (FRA) 10.76, Malia Manuel (HAW) 7.34, Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 3.54

Heat 2: Tyler Wright (AUS) 10.50, Laura Enever (AUS) 9.40, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 6.17

Heat 3: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 13.13, Sally Fitzgibbons (HAW) 12.40, Lee-Ann Curren (FRA) 9.80

Heat 4: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 16.17, Johanne Defay (FRA) 14.17, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 5.54

Heat 5: Carissa Moore (HAW) 14.76, Paige Hareb (NZL) 10.16, Coco Ho (HAW) 3.43

Heat 6: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 15.77, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 10.10, Lakey Peterson (USA) 9.74

 

Roxy Pro France Round 2 Results (1st advances to Round 3, 2nd finishes Equal 13th):

Heat 1: Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 10.44 def. Laura Enever (AUS) 9.07

Heat 2: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 13.33 def. Alessa Quizon (HAW) 5.44

Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (HAW) 11.53 def. Lee-Ann Curren (FRA) 10.97

Heat 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) 12.50 def. Alana Blanchard (HAW) 7.16

Heat 5: Lakey Peterson (USA) 15.00 def. Paige Hareb (NZL) 8.60

Heat 6: Johanne Defay (FRA) 13.17 def. Coco Ho (HAW) 11.53

 

Roxy Pro France Round 3 Results (1st advances to Quarterfinals, 2nd and 3rd to Round 4):

Heat 1: Malia Manuel (HAW) 14.93, Pauline Ado (FRA) 12.43, Tyler Wright (AUS) 7.83

Heat 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (HAW) 16.56, Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 10.14, Johanne Defay (FRA) 10.00

Heat 3: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 16.00, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 15.84, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 11.40

Heat 4: Carissa Moore (HAW) 12.07, Lakey Peterson (USA), Nikki Van Dijk (AUS)

 

An exciting, historic first day at Lower Trestles

It was an exciting first day for the Swatch Women’s Pro, running through rounds one, two, and three.

Stephanie Gilmore, delivered a dominant performance on day 1 of the Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles.
Image: ASP / Rowland

Aussie, Stephanie Gilmore, gave it her all and proved that the race for the women’s world title is far from over. Gilmore gave an incredible performance at the first ever Women’s world championship event to be held at Lower Trestles. 

After a slow start in round one, Gilmore did not hold back for round two. Currently No. 4 in the world rankings, she had to be on top form if she was going to dispatch Alana Blanchard and move on to the higher rounds. Her complete commitment allowed her to post the highest heat score of the competition so far, a total of 17.83, including a nine-point ride.

Gilmore went on to become the first quarterfinalist at Trestles, after dispatching Pauline Ado and Lakey Peterson.

“I was so excited to surf that heat and I couldn’t believe I got a nine on my first wave,” said Stephanie Gilmore. “I felt really relaxed after that. But at the last minute I went down to third so I really had to snap out of it and think about how to get out of that situation. I knew I didn’t need a huge score but it was a matter of waiting for a wave. Luckily I had priority and a wave came. It was close and I’m happy I made it.”

Trestles delivered some excellent conditions for this historic day, with a number of unforgettable performances.

Heat two of round four saw the reigning two-time ASP Women’s World Champ, Carissa Moore, take on fellow Hawaiian Coco Ho, and rookie Laura Enever. Moore and Ho were both neck and neck for the first half, but Ho had the edge. Enever remained scoreless by the half way point. Ho snuck in under Enever’s priority, backing up her 7.50 with a 6.50, solidifying her lead. Moore’s sweeping turns scored her an 9.97, however, it was Ho’s critical in-the-pocket surfing that allowed her to post an 8.67, securing her a place in the Quarterfinals. Ho had previously claimed victory in round 1 against Sally Fitzgibbons and Alana Blanchard.

“I knew that Carissa would hands down be the hardest person to beat out there. She has the power, the progression, everything you need for Lowers. I was able to get the better of both exchanges but it was so hard to wait for the scores at the end,” said Coco Ho.

Sally Fitzgibbons, Dimity Stoyle, and Johanne Defay were neck-and-neck through their round three matchup. The three surfers were all holding 12 point rides with just three minutes left on the clock, but it was Fitzgibbons who was able to take the win with a 6.77 — securing her a place in the quarterfinals. She also defeated wildcard Mahina Maeda in round two. 

“I’m really happy with the result. The level is so high so you know all the girls in your heat are going to post big scores, so you have to think carefully and assess each wave. You have to surf smart and take the best of what comes your way in a heat,” said Sally Fitzgibbons.

Earlier in the day, Courtney Conlogue defended her home break against Hawaiian Alessa Quizon, during the eliminatioin round two.

Conlogue has been absent from the past three events due to an ankle injury she suffered in Bells Beach.

The local hero got busy early, but it was Quizon who was first to post a solid score of 7.17, for a line of backhand hacks. Conlogue manages to foce a lead change late in the heat with a five-point ride, but it was short lived as Quizon managed to back up her opener with a 6.17, regaining the lead and eventually eliminating Conlogue from the competition.

“Courtney wants it as bad as I do,” said Alessa Quizon. “I just tried to not be nervous, and focus on myself. She’s been training, and I see that she’s getting better, and you don’t ever underestimate a competitor.”

“I was out of the rhythm with the ocean,” said Courtney Conlogue. “It was frustrating but you’ve got to start somewhere. It was a building block, I’ve got to learn from my mistakes. We’ll see what happens in the later part of the season.” 

Monster Moment: Stephanie Gilmore’s highest heat score of the day:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles Round 1 Results:
Heat 1: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 16.50, Malia Manuel (HAW) 12.73, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 11.10
Heat 2: Laura Enever (AUS) 15.60, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 9.93, Paige Hareb (NZL) 10.83
Heat 3: Carissa Moore (HAW) 13.60, Mahina Maeda (HAW) 11.50, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 6.30
Heat 4: Coco Ho (HAW) 16.36, Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.94, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 13.56
Heat 5: Tyler Wright (AUS) 14.57, Courtney Conlogue (USA) 12.07, Pauline Ado (FRA) 9.83
Heat 6: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 17.36, Lakey Peterson (USA) 16.10, Johanne Defay (FRA) 11.00

Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles Round 2 Results:
Heat 1: Alessa Quizon (HAW) 13.34 def. Courtney Conlogue (USA) 8.23
Heat 2: Lakey Peterson (USA) 14.00 def. Paige Hareb (NZL) 10.60
Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 16.04 def. Mahina Maeda (HAW) 10.60
Heat 4: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 17.83 def. Alana Blanchard (HAW) 14.06
Heat 5: Pauline Ado (FRA) 15.93 def. Malia Manuel (HAW) 14.73
Heat 6: Johanne Defay (FRA) 14.10 def. Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 13.50

Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles Round 3 Results:
Heat 1: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 14.67, Pauline Ado (FRA) 14.34, Lakey Peterson (USA) 13.37
Heat 2: Coco Ho (HAW) 16.17, Carissa Moore (HAW) 16.14, Laura Enever (AUS) 4.33
Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 13.34, Dimity Stoyle (AUS 12.37), Johanne Defay (FRA) 12.13
Heat 4: Tyler Wright (AUS) 17.43, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 14.24, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 12.50

Swatch Women’s Pro Trestles Round 4 Match-Ups:
Heat 1: Pauline Ado (FRA) vs. Laura Enever (AUS)
Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Lakey Peterson (USA)
Heat 3: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) vs. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF)
Heat 4: Johanne Defay (FRA) vs. Alessa Quizon (HAW)

Sally Fitzgibbons takes the Win at the Fiji Women’s Pro

 

Sally Fitzgibbons reigns supreme at Cloudbreak. Picture courtesy of ASP/Robertson

An incredible Finals day took place in Fiji for the Women’s Pro. The day saw some incredible 6 – 8 foot conditions at Cloudbreak. Sally Fitzgibbons reigned supreme after going head-to-head in pumping surf against five-time ASP World Champ, Stephanie Gilmore, for their first match-up in the 2014 season. 

Fitzgibbons claimed her second victory this season; she remains No. 2 in the ASP rankings after her win against Gilmore. The two wasted no time during their final bout, posting some small scores, with less than fifteen minutes on the clock Gilmore caught a crucial wave that allowed her to take the lead over Fitzgibbons. But Fitzgibbons answered Gilmore’s call, only needing a 2.73 to take the lead, she found a wave and logged a 3.00 allowing Fitzgibbons to take her second back-to-back win of the 2014 season. 

“I guess wins come in waves for me! To win in beachbreaks in Rio last week and then in reefbreaks in Fiji this week is a huge boost to my confidence,” said Sally Fitzgibbons. “I knew that I’ve been surfing well this year and I just needed things to fall my way before the wins started coming. Carissa had a huge start to this season, but the year’s a long way from being finished. I’m looking forward to the US Open.” 

Stephanie Gilmore was on top for her journey to the finals, besting Bianca Buitendag and Dimity Stoyle. But she failed to find the scores she needed in order to pass Fitzgibbons in the finals. She leaves the competition in second place and moves to No. 3 in the ASP rankings for the 2014 season. 

“The surf certainly got tricky there at the end of the day,” said Stephanie Gilmore. “There had been good waves coming in all day, but it’s a challenging lineup and easy to find yourself out of place. It was a pretty slow Final and I fell on a couple that I could have capitalised on. All in all though, it’s been a great day, the girls all charged and it’s been a great return to Fiji for the ASP Top 17. Onto the next one.” 

Malia Manuel secured an equal 3rd place, her best result since 2012, after her match against Fitzgibbons in the semifinals. The intense heat saw a number of broken boards and wipeouts, but it was Fitzgibbons who came out on top after a massive tube ride. Manuel left the Fiji Pro as one of the top surfers, despite sustaining and injury round 4.  

“The waves have been pumping and the girls have been going so hard. I got hurt pretty early on in my Round 4 heat, but I was able to pull it off. The doctors went from thinking my hand was broken to thinking that it was a concussion. I don’t know if it was the adrenaline, but once they wrapped it, I felt like I could manage. I definitely felt it when I was grabbing rail on a few and maybe if I wasn’t hurt, I could have pushed through. Congrats to Sally though. She had an amazing barrel and has been surfing well all week. Thanks to the Fijians for hosting us in the beautiful islands this week too,” Said Malia Manuel. 

Dimity Stoyle is currently the highest ranked rookie on tour. She caused a few upsets, after taking out the reigning World Champ and currently ranked No. 1 on tour, Carissa Moore, during the quarterfinals. She matched up against Gilmore in the semifinals, but failed to find the scores she needed. 

“The waves have pumped at Cloudbreak and then Restaurants and then back at Cloudbreak today and the girls have taken it head on. I would have liked to have put up some bigger scores today, but to take down Carissa and come up against my hero Steph in the Semifinals in pumping Cloudbreak is like a dream. Really stoked to be here. Vinaka ASP,” said Dimity Stoyle. 

Highlights of Finals Day at Fiji Women’s Pro:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP   

Fiji Women’s Pro Final Result:

Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 9.00 def. Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 8.73

Fiji Women’s Pro Semifinal Results:

Semifinal 1: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.50 def. Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 5.33

Semifinal 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 14.24 def. Malia Manuel (HAW) 8.86

Fiji Women’s Pro Quarterfinal Results:

Quarterfinal 1: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.50 def. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 13.50

Quarterfinal 2: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 6.83 Carissa Moore (HAW) 5.34

Quarterfinal 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 14.27 def. Laura Enever (AUS) 1.90

Quarterfinal 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) 9.50 def. Johanne Defay (FRA) 8.93

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 4 Results:

Heat 1: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 16.90 def. Alessa Quizon (HAW) 14.84

Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) 17.07 def. Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 15.13

Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.57 def. Tyler Wright (AUS) 13.93

Heat 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) 8.50 def. Paige Hareb (NZL) 7.00

 

Second day of the Fiji Women’s Pro got underway at Restaurants

Laura Enever dominated round 3. Picture courtesy of ASP/Robertson

The second day of competition at the Fiji Women’s Pro got underway, for round 3 and two heats of round 4 in pumping 4 – 6 foot conditions.  The day saw for the first time in ASP history, the Women’s competition take to the world class wave, Restaurants, with Laura Enever shinning through and posting the highest scores of the day.

Five-time ASP World Champ, Stephanie Gilmore, took on Bianca Buitendag and Tatiana Weston-Webb, for a historic first heat at Restaurants. The three surfers wasted no time establishing themselves over the left hander, but it was Gilmore who dominated. The natural-footer was able to advance straight to the quarter finals after posting an 8.00 and later a 8.33.

“When you’re here on the island and you see these perfect lefthanders out front at Restaurants it’s hard not to have the competition here,” said Stephanie Gilmore. “All girls are stoked on the decision. I love Restaurants, it’s a challenging wave but it’s also so mechanical so you can get into a rhythm and really do your thing. It went really well out there so I’m pleased”.

After a brief interval, waiting for the right tide, competition resumed for heat 3 of round 3. Sally Fitzgibbons faced Laura Enever and Paige Hareb. Enever posted a 9.27, for a series of tubes and turns. All three were posting some excellent scores, but it was Enever who reigned supreme, after catching a set wave and attacking the lip — locking in a 9.57 — and securing the two highest wave total of the competition so far. Fitzgibbons and Hareb will move to round 4 for a second chance to be in the quarterfinals, Enever progresses directly to the quarterfinals.

“I think it’s so new for us to be surfing here in Fiji. That was my first surf at Restaurants and I thought, I just need to catch a wave and see what happens on it,” said Laura Enever.

It was an intense affair for heat 4, Tyler Wright, Malia Manuel, and Johanne Defay battled it our for a spot in the quarterfinals. With all three locking in some mid-range scores, but it was Malia Manuel posting the highest early on. Defay began quiet, and made a late attack — locking in the highest score of the heat, a 7.27 — and backing it up with a 6.03 to take the win.

“It’s really similar to my home break. The wave is a little longer here but I really feel at home and that gives me some confidence going into the Quarterfinals,” said Johanne Defay.

The first heat of round 4 was the battle of the goofy-footers. Bianca Buitendag and Alessa Quizon attacked the waves with two different forehand approaches. Quizon took an aggressive approach, attacking the lip, while Buitendag focused on open-faced carves. Buitendag scored an excellent 8.50 and 8.40, forcing Quizon into a combination situation. Quizon gave it her all, and with eight minutes on the clock she locked in a 7.77 and 7.07, but it would not be enough.

Buitendag progresses to the quarterfinals, while Quizon finishes in an equal 9th place. 

“I’m taking every opportunity as it comes. I get incredibly excited when I see a left so you can images how stoked I am to be here and I can’t wait for the next heat. It’s great to have some bigger sized waves, it makes the competition more fair and there’s some really good swell predicted for tomorrow,” said Buitendag.

Carissa Moore was matched with Tatiana Weston-Webb, in heat 2 of round 4. The battle between the two Hawaiians was fierce. The pair wasted no time posting some good scores, with Weston-Webb seeming unphased by her opponent took an early lead. But Moore displayed some excellent backhand surfing, and took the lead. The seesaw battle continued until Moore delivered five seamless turns and posted an excellent 9.40 — taking the win.

Moore progresses to the quarterfinals where she will face Dimity Stoyle. Weston-Webb leaves the competition in an equal 9th place. 

“She has shown how strong she is in various conditions between Rio and now here in Fiji. We had great waves for our heat, a little windy, but plenty of sets. It’s a challenging wave and I was doing my best to stick and move on my manoeuvres. I’m really pleased to be into the Quarterfinals and I hope we continue to get great surf for the remainder of the event,” said Carissa Moore.

Hightlights from Restaurants: For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP   

Upcoming Fiji Women’s Pro Round 4 Match-ups:

Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Tyler Wright (AUS)
Heat 4: Malia Manuel (HAW) vs. Paige Hareb (NZL)

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 4 Results:
Heat 1: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 16.90 def. Alessa Quizon (HAW) 14.84
Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) 17.07 def. Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 15.13

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 3 Results:
Heat 1: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 16.33, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 16.30, Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 8.60
Heat 2: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 14.17, Carissa Moore (HAW) 10.87, Alessa Quizon 10.50
Heat 3: Laura Enever (AUS) 18.84, Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.07, Paige Hareb (NZL) 14.93
Heat 4: Johanne Defay (FRA) 13.30, Malia Manuel (HAW) 12.73, Tyler Wright (AUS) 10.33

The Fiji Women’s Pro finally begins at Cloudbreak

Malia Manuel posted the highest two-wave heat total of the competition so far.
Picture courtesy of ASP / Robertson

After 2 lay days, the Fiji Women’s Pro got underway, as part of stop No.5 on the ASP World Championship Tour, for rounds 1 and 2. 

For the first time in seven years the worlds top seventeen took to the world-class waves of Cloudbreak in tricky 3 – 5 foot conditions. Malia Manuel was the standout performer of the day, posting the highest two-wave heat total of the event so far, with a 17.53.

Five-time ASP World champ, Stephanie Gilmore, was looking to prove herself after a disappointing performance in the Rio Pro. She took to Cloudbreak with Laura Enever and Johanne Defay. Defay put Enever and Gilmore in a combination situation at the halfway point. Gilmore gave it her all, working a large open face with eight minutes left of the heat, securing a 7.33, putting her within a mid-range score and allowing her to take the win and secure a place in round 3. Defay will also be in round 3 after defeating Coco Ho in round 2.

“A few of us have been here before on free surf trips and we’ve been warming up the past couple of days, but it’s a wave the likes of which we haven’t had on Tour in a long time.  I love surfing on my backhand and feel like I don’t get to do it enough. I guess I’ll have more than enough opportunity this week in Fiji,” said Stephanie Gilmore.

The highly anticipated match-up between reigning two-time World Champ, Carissa Moore, rookie Alessa Quizon, and event wildcard winner and reigning junior champ, Ella Williams. The surfers struggled with the wave early on, with no waves being ridden for the first ten minutes leading the Head Judge to call for a restart. But it wasn’t until the halfway point that everything clicked into place and some good wave scores were being posted.

Moore was able to use her powerful backhand to lock in some impressive scores and take the win over the two goofy-footers. Williams was later eliminated in round 2 by Tyler Wright, leaving her first Women’s World Championship Tour Event in an equal 13th. 

“When I was 13 or 14 I was in the trials the last time they had a women’s event here. It was beautiful and I was terrified and it’s good to be back,” said Moore.

Quizon won her match against Pauline Ado in round 2 and will face Moore again, in what should be an exciting heat in round 3.

Heat 4 of round 1 began slow, but replacement surfer Tatiana Weston-Webb took an early lead through the first half. Sally Fitzgibbons, current No. 2, and Pauline Ado, desperately searched the lineup, but could only come up with small scores. Weston-Webb built momentum, posting a 7.00 to add to her score. But Fitzgibbons answered her call, notching a pair of sixes and taking the win.

“It’s a powerful wave and with a little bit of wind on it, you can get lost in the lineup. I feel like I’m surfing strong though and I’m really pleased to move directly into round 3,” said Sally Fitzgibbons.

The final and most exciting heat of round 1 saw all three competitors open their attack early. However, Malia Manuel reigned supreme. Being the first surfer of the event to register a high score for a series of fast and tight technical turns, she managed to over power Bianca Buitendag and Nikki Van Dijik, who both gave it there all but it would prove not to be enough. Manuel posted another incredible score, a nine-point ride, giving her a massive 17.53 heat total.

But the heat ended on a bad note with Van Dijik leaving the lineup and travelling back to Tavaru for medical attention after a savage wipeout that left her bruised and bleeding. She was later forced to withdraw from the competition, with her round 2 match-up Laura Enever progressing directly to round 3. 

“Conditions are tricky, but we’re so fortunate to have an event here at a world-class wave like Cloudbreak. It’s completely new type of wave for the girls on tour and it makes things very exciting. I definitely feel comfortable out here coming from Kauai. I have great boards and I’m looking forward to what the next couple of days deliver us,” said Malia Manuel.

Deputy Commissioner, Jessi Miley-Dyer, said: “Nikki Van Dijik has withdrawn from the Fiji Women’s Pro after sustaining injuries to her face, chest and arms during her round 1 hear. She has received medical treatment on Tavarua island and is in good spirits, even wanting to surf her round 2 heat, but ultimately decided that she is unable to return to competition in Fiji. We wish her a speedy recovery.”

Replacement surfer for injured Courtney Conlogue, Tatiana Weston-Webb, caused more upsets during her match with Lakey Peterson in round 2. Weston-Webb took an early lead, locking a 8.83 on her opening ride. Peterson played the waiting game, searching for that perfect wave, but unfortunately let the whole heat go by without catching a single on. With no wave score posted, the door was left wide open for Weston-Webb to take the win.

“I’m so lucky to have this opportunity. It’s really helped spending some time here before the competition. I’ve been surfing five hours a day and I think it paid off because there was a swell just like this. I’m super stoked that I came early. I’ve never surfed a contest that’s anything like this before. I can’t believe I’m here,” an excited Tatiana Weston-Webb said.

Highlights of Fiji Women’s Pro rounds 1 & 2:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP   

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 3 Match-ups:
Heat 1: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), Bianca Buitendag (ZAF), Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW)
Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW), Dimity Stoyle (AUS), Alessa Quizon (HAW)
Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), Laura Enever (AUS), Paige Hareb (NZL)
Heat 4: Tyler Wright (AUS), Malia Manuel (HAW), Johanne Defay (FRA)

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 2 Results:
Heat 1: Laura Enever (AUS) vs. Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) (Heat did not surf)
Heat 2: Johanne Defay (FRA) 12.16 def. Coco Ho (HAW) 9.24
Heat 3: Tyler Wright (AUS) 14.67 def. Ella Williams (NZL) 6.10
Heat 4: Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 12.83 def. Lakey Peterson (USA) 0.00
Heat 5: Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 7.77 def. Alana Blanchard (HAW) 3.43
Heat 6: Alessa Quizon (HAW) 14.50 def. Pauline Ado (FRA) 10.94

Fiji Women’s Pro Round 1 Results:
Heat 1: Paige Hareb (NZL) 10.50, Coco Ho (HAW) 7.77, Lakey Peterson (USA) 7.20
Heat 2: Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 13.33, Johanne Defay (FRA) 12.33, Laura Enever (AUS) 3.67 INT
Heat 3: Carissa Moore (HAW) 14.76, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 12.10, Ella Williams (NZL) 7.00
Heat 4: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 12.27, Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 11.33, Pauline Ado (FRA) 7.60
Heat 5: Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 10.50, Tyler Wright (AUS) 6.93, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 4.00
Heat 6: Malia Manuel (HAW) 17.53, Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 13.47, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 6.76

Worlds best take on Round 2 & 3 in the Women’s Rio Pro

Lakey Peterson claimed the day’s highest two-wave heat total of 17.03.
Picture courtest of ASP / Smorigo

An exciting second day at the Rio Women’s Pro saw round 2 and 3 take place in two-to-three foot conditions. Round 2 saw wildcard, Silvana Lima, cause an upset by taking out five-time ASP World Champ Stephanie Gilmore, and replacement surfer Tatiana Weston-Webb, got the better of the current No. 5, Bianca Buitendag.  

Heat 3 saw the clash between Stephanie Gilmore and Silvana Lima. The two have battled out in some intense heats in the past, and today would be no different. Gilmore struck early, first with a 5.90 and then an excellent 8.17 for a two-turn backhand combo. Lima answered back, combining a big outside snap and clean air-reverse on a right for a 9.10 ad a win over the five-time ASP Women’s World Champ.

“I really tried to do an air in that heat because I knew I would need a really good score to win,” said Silvana Lima. “I can’t believe I made it, I’m so happy. I’m feeling 100 percent right now. Everything is going right for me and going really well. I can’t wait to keep going in this competition.”

Another upset occurred during the next heat, in the opening ten minutes, when Bianca Buitendag was called for an interference, neglecting to triple check if Tatiana Weston-Webb had given up priority. With Buitendag desperately struggling for a perfect 10, Weston-Webb sealed the deal on the following wave — eliminating Buitendag. However, Sally Fitzgibbons and Coco Ho got the better of Weston-Webb in round 3, she has been matched up with Nikki Van Dijik in round 4.

“I’m really glad I made the heat and I’m glad that I’ve had this experience,” said Tatiana Weston-Webb.

The crowd roared for Silvana Lima, once again, when the Brazilian Hero took on Lakey Peterson and Malia Manuel, in round 3. Lima fed off the momentum of the crowd and her earlier win of the day. She took an early lead — logging a 7.00. But it was in the final ten minutes of the heat when Peterson overpowered Lima, posting a 9.03 for a vertical snap and tail-out turn. Manuel and Lima were left struggling for a score; Peterson took the win with the highest two-wave score of the day, a 17.13.

“The non-elimination rounds are really fun because there’s less pressure,” said Lakey Peterson. “You really want to win them because then you get to skip a round. It’s the first time this season that I’ve skipped two rounds and it’s really cool. Silvana and Malia  are great opponents. I’ve always really like the way Silvana surfs, she’s very progressive. Malia is so solid and you know she’ll always get two good waves. Everyone on Tour is so good now so you know you’ll never get an easy heat.”

Reigning tow-time ASP World Champ, Carissa Moore, went head-to-head with Alessa Quizon and Pauline Ado for heat 2 of round 3. Moore took the highest score of the hear, with a 7.50, but it was Quizon who took the lead with a combination of 6.33 and 5.50. Ado kept searching and logged a 5.57. With ten minutes remaining, Moore surpassed Quizon when she gained a 5.90 on a right that would carry her all the way to the quarterfinals.  

“I’m not really keeping track of points but I was surprised to see Steph go down earlier,” said Carissa Moore. “Silvana is surfing amazing so it’s great to see her back on Tour and putting on a show for everyone in front of a home crowd. Silvana has been on the Tour for years and has so much experience. It’s great to see her in the event and it’s great having wildcards in the event.”

The final heat of the day saw Sally Fitzgibbons take on Coco Ho and Tatiana Weston-Webb. Ho dominated the first half of the affair, combining her light and fast attack in the pocket of both lefts and right. But Fitzgibbons gave it her all, allowing her to surpass Ho with a solid 7.33 lead and the win, allowing her to proceed to the quarterfinals.

“It was exciting out there today,” said Sally Fitzgibbons. “I’ve got a few things to work on but I was really happy to get that 7.00 mid heat and shut it down at the end using my priority well. Over the years Coco and I have had some great battles. We had a Final here in Rio a few years ago, which I was thinking about while I was out there. Drawing from those past experiences has given me confidence and I think I’ve got a lot more in the tank so I’m looking forward to the Quarterfinals.”

Lakey Peterson Dominates Heat 1 of Round 3:For more recaps, highlights and videos go to: aspworldtour.com or alternatively their YouTube Channel ASP  

Rio Women’s Pro Round 4 Match-ups:
Heat 1: Silvana Lima (BRA) vs. Pauline Ado (FRA)
Heat 2: Malia Manuel (HAW) vs. Alessa Quizon (HAW)
Heat 3: Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) vs. Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW)
Heat 4: Coco Ho (HAW) vs. Laura Enever (AUS)

Rio Women’s Pro Round 3 Results:
Heat 1: Lakey Peterson (USA) 15.36, Silvana Lima (BRA) 14.73, Malia Manuel (HAW) 12.03
Heat 2: Carissa Moore (HAW) 13.23, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 11.83, Pauline Ado (FRA) 8.67
Heat 3: Tyler Wright (AUS) 12.60, Nikki Van Dijk (AUS) 10.77, Laura Enever (AUS) 10.20
Heat 4: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 13.03, Coco Ho (HAW) 12.46, Tatiana Weston-Webb (HAW) 10.20

Rio Women’s Pro Round 2 Results:
Heat 1: Alessa Quizon (HAW) 13.77 def. Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 11.07
Heat 2: Coco Ho (HAW) 14.10 def. Johanne Defay 13.87 (FRA)
Heat 3: Silvana Lima (BRA) 15.43 def. Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 15.10
Heat 4: Tatiana Weston-Web (HAW) 15.00 def. Bianca Buitendag (ZAF) 8.17
Heat 5: Malia Manuel (HAW) 12.43 def. Alana Blanchard (HAW) 10.00
Heat 6: Pauline Ado (FRA) 14.07 def. Paige Hareb (NZL) 13.13