The Hawaiian Pro kicked off a few days ago at Haleiwa. While the early rounds were a little slower than competitors would have liked, conditions are improving gradually. With round one and two out of the way, yesterday the gates opened on round three and four, and there was no shortage of excitement.
The third day pitted the tour’s elite against up-and-comers on the ‘QS, and there were more than a few surprises. The first 9-point ride came from local hero Sebastian Zietz. Finding a set wave, he unleashed one powerful carve, and it was enough for the judges to award him a 9.17.
Australia’s Connor O’Leary paddled out to his third round heat with Medina, Bailey, and Woods. While Medina was the obvious favorite, O’Leary found himself a few gems, including this 9.57 on a backhand runner.
O’Leary ended up victorious, while Medina placed second.
Another unexpected standout was Cooper Chapman, who, during his heat against Duru, Young, and Cathels found a smaller lefthand runner and proceeded to hack it to pieces. The judges awarded him 9 points for his effort.
Conditions are only getting better as competitors move into the later rounds of the first gem in the Triple Crown. Catch the action live at WorldSurfLeague.com.
