In the third and final episode of 21Days, local Michel Bourez and long-time visitor Nathan Hedge reflect on their relationship with the precarious reef break. This is especially relevant as the Billabong Pro Tahiti is set to go off, and the trials already saw the wave throw many competitors over, including one brutal wipeout that landed Michel’s younger brother Kevin in the emergency room. But the same trials saw Hedge finish second overall, “officially” breathing life into his comeback attempt and dropping him into the first heat of the ASP WCT event.
For both, preparation for the barrelfest has been a journey in and of itself, extending well beyond this year’s tour. While Bourez has already one two events in 2014, he has never won at his home break. In fact, no Tahitian has ever won the event in its 15-year run. The highest finish by a Tahitian came in 2008, when Manoa Drollet finished second behind Bruno Santos. As for Hedge? He might have a place in the competition, but that doesn’t ensure a place on the tour. In order to take the next step in his comeback, he needs a strong showing at Chopes.
But, ultimately, it really isn’t up to Bourez, Hedge, or any other competitor. The Australian says it best: “She’s the boss, you never get too cocky out here.” She is indeed.
