New HBO Drama to Focus on Surfers, Drugs

Yeah I know. You're thinking what's new here. But if you've ever read a book by acclaimed novelist Kem Nunn and have a good understanding of HBO's track record of producing dark, edgy series, this one's going to be worth watching.

Find out more about HBO's new "surf noir" series John From Cincinnati at SurferMag.com.

Inside the Billabong Girls' Base Camp on North Shore

Ah, everyone deserves a holiday break, even good 'ol Doc. But I'm back, and for one of my last postings of the year, I'll direct your attention to Surfline, which has yet another great feature, this one taking us on a "home invasion" of the Billabong Girls house at Velzyland on the North Shore.

Get the inside story now at Surfline.com.

Cody Graham on Kauai's Takeover of Pipeline

In the early 90's, veteran Pipeline charger Cody Graham was one of the first (with Braden Dias) to migrate from Kauai to Oahu (okay, so it's only a 19-minute flight) and set up shop as a regular in the Pipeline lineup.

Obviously, Graham started a trend that's been followed by literally dozens of great Kauai surfers. Surfer Magazine's Scott Bass talks to Graham about how things have changed at Pipeline in a clip from Bass' weekly podcast show "In the Lineup." Watch the video at SurferMag.com.

An Aussie 'Hog' Sent Down to Minors for '07 Season

The ASP has now announced its WCT qualifiers for the 2007 tour and perhaps the most surprising surfer missing is Nathan Hedge. The Australian "Hog" was one of the most patriotic of a generally very patriotic clan of Ozzies, but had an off year after six straight on the 'CT - a couple of them spent in the top 10.

So now's the big test for Hedgey. Will he rejoin the WQS and attempt to re-qualify for the '08 WCT, or have we seen the last of the beloved Aussie Hog? We'll see when things get rolling again next month...the first six-star of the year in Brazil begins before the end of January.

For the complete list of 2007 WCT qualifers, check out ASPWorldTour.com.

Bruce Irons Opens Up in January 2007 Surfer Magazine

For those who know Bruce Irons as a man of (relatively) few words, it might be refreshing to find him so actively participating with older brother Andy as guest editors of the January 2007 edition of Surfer Magazine.

And in one of his most interesting commentaries, Bruce takes "little league parents" to task as part of his message for today's groms.

A few selected quotes:

"To focus your life entirely on surfing when you're so young sucks all the fun out of it, and that's just not healthy. What's worse are the parents I see pushing their kids too hard. They, more than anyone, should know better."

Pick up the January 2007 issue of Surfer Magazine - with guest editors Andy and Bruce Irons - on newsstands now.

Clark Foam Bombshell - 54 Weeks Later (And Counting)

It's been a little over a year since the sudden, dramatic shutdown of Clark Foam sent a shockwave through the entire worldwide surf industry.

In a timely, very interesting photo feature, Surfing Magazine provides a peek into the previously mysterious world of surfboard blank construction, courtesy of Scott Saunders and Just Foam of Oceanside, California.

Check out the pics now at SurfingtheMag.com.

Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters Final Round Video

Wanna see every ride of Thursday afternoon's Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters final round, with Andy Irons, Kelly Slater, Rob Machado and Cory Lopez, all in less than four minutes?

Upon further review (as the refs always say in NFL games), the difference between Irons' and Slater's best waves in the final seemed closer than the heat scores reflected. Suffice it to say that the judges had to deal with a lot of action and some incredible surfing as the best two surfers in the world in the past ten years duked it out.

Check out the video clip now at Surfline.com.

Andy Irons Wins Pipe Masters, Triple Crown

Multiple Triple Crown winner and current Surfer Magazine guest editor Andy Irons put a big, fat exclamation point on the Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters this afternoon, scoring 19.87 out of a possible 20 to take out Kelly Slater, Cory Lopez and Rob Machado and win the event handily.

Irons' two scoring rides must be seen to be believed. To surf that well under the amount of pressure and glare almost defies belief.

All that remains now are tonight's parties on the North Shore and the WCT's annual awards shindig.

You're going to want to see Andy's waves from the final. Keep an eye on TripleCrownofSurfing.com for video clips within the next couple of days.

Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters to Resume Thursday?

The swell is on the rise at Pipeline and the Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters looks good to go on Thursday.

Round three action should begin tomorrow morning. In the meantime, check out some highlights from the initial rounds at Surfline.com.

North Shore Party Scene in Full Swing

Think that winter on the North Shore is all about the surf? Not when the ASP "circus" is in town.

Check out the last two paragraphs of Surfing Magazine's "North Shore Week in Review" feature for all the titilating details on this year's hottest goings-on that don't involve riding waves.

Tow Teams Take Advantage of Huge Oregon Swell

Nelscott Reef, Oregon was the scene of the latest big wave tow-in contest, with most of the best-known chargers in attendance, including Hawaii's Garrett MacNamara and Kealii Mamala, who won the event in some pretty epic conditions.

Surfline.com's got it covered with a slideshow. Check out slide 11 of 18 at this link.

Locals Dominating Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters

The many WCT guys who are no longer with us after two rounds of the Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters are probably wondering how much time it really takes out at Pipe to turn in the type of performances that locals have mustered so far.

Let's put it this way: there are 32 surfers preparing tonight for round three, and no less than 35 percent of them are NOT on the WCT (at least not full time).

Surprised? You shouldn't be. I mean Adriano de Souza at freakin' Pipeline? Puh-leeeease!!!

Here's the lesson. Experience at Pipeline means everything...just ask Kelly, Andy, Bruce and Pancho. This idea of letting locals into the "Greatest Show on Surf" at Pipeline is pretty controversial (even Sunny Garcia had a problem with it some years back), but the event is definitely better for it.

Layne Beachley on Top of the World Again

So it's been two days lacking basic Internet access, plane flights and exhaustion, but Doc is back (don't ask).

You've really got to hand it to the legendary Layne Beachley, who managed to take out yet another women's world title the other day at the Billabong Pro at Maui's Honolua Bay.

There's a great story on Layne at ASPWorldTour.com.

It's Layne Beachley vs. Chelsea Georgeson for All The Women's Marbles

Yesterday was the first day of the holding period of the final women's Triple Crown event at Honolua Bay on Maui, and did the bay ever come through!

Three rounds were run in stunning, nearly perfect conditions and the girls took full advantage of the glassy, hollow conditions.

A lay day has been called today, but when the contest resumes it's a battle between two Aussie world champs - Layne Beachley and Chelsea Georgeson - for all the WCT marbles as the season winds down.

In the meantime, the North Shore is huge, windy and washed out, as we await the Pipeline Masters kick-off. I've actually been longboarding in Waikiki and am headed to Aloha Stadium tonight for the massive U2/Pearl Jam concert.

Check TripleCrownofSurfing.com for daily updates on both the women's and men's events.

WQS Qualifiers - Who's Going to the Show?

So yesterday, with the completion of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach, a long season on the WQS was put in the books. Who made the cut and is going to the WCT in '07?

Jeremy Flores. The Frenchman (by way of Australia) adds another European to the 'CT roster - more will follow.

Mick Campbell. Formerly in the WCT top ten, then off the surf world's collective radar, and now back for another shot.

Josh Kerr. Red-hot Aussie and Rusty team rider who qualified in his first serious year on the 'QS.

Neco Padaratz. Brazilian veteran who previously spent some time in the penalty box for steroid use (of all things).

Ben Dunn. Yet another young Australian served up from the WCT factory down under.

Gabe Kling. American who showed the world this year that hard work and persistence does pay off on the WQS.

Best of luck next year to all of the new and returning members of the WCT. For the final 2006 WQS standings, visit ASPWorldTour.com.

Shaun Thomson's 'Surfer's Code' Book Available Now

During the final round of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing this afternoon, former world champ Shaun Tomson spent some time in the announcer's booth talking up his new book, Surfer's Code - 12 Simple Lessons for Riding Through Life.

In the book, Tomson shares pieces of wisdom he's picked up from 37 years in the water with some of the world's greatest surfers.

If you want to see Shaun at the height of his powers, you'll want to rent or buy Endless Summer II. Yeah, I know it's a decade old, but watching Shaun do his thing at J-Bay is definitely worthwhile.

Find out more about Shaun Tomson's Surfer's Code - 12 Simple Lessons for Riding Through Life at SurfersCode.com.

Joel Parkinson Dominates Final at O'Neill World Cup of Surfing

Aussie Joel Parkinson racked up another big win this afternoon at Sunset Beach in the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing.

Parko completely dominated the final, scoring an epic ten point ride that included two huge, arcing carves, with a barrel in between. Eighteen year-old South African Jordy Smith finished a surprising second, besting Hawaii's Andy Irons (who looks poised to win another Triple Crown) and Fred Patacchia

Sunset Beach was epic today, with set after set rolling through and contest organizer Randy Rarick smiling following a very slow start to the Triple Crown at Haleiwa in November.

It's now on to Pipeline for the culmination of the Triple Crown and the World Championship Tour for this year. Find out more at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Action Resumes at O'Neill World Cup of Surfing

So Sunset Beach is starting to roar back to life and the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing managed to run some round five heats today. Fred Patacchia was up first and advanced behind little-known Aussie Jay Thompson, and Joel Parkinson was looking really, really good in posting the highest score of the day (by a mile).

Kelly Slater managed to advance, as did Andy Irons, Pancho Sullivan and Mick Fanning. All in all, the upcoming quarterfinal heats are pretty loaded, and tomorrow's looking to produce bigger surf than we had today. Tomorrow is the last day of the holding period so it's definitely on.

Get online for all the Wednesday action at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Kelly Slater on Contest Structure and More

If you’ve followed pro surfing much in the past decade, you’ve probably noticed that lots of pro surfers spend a significant amount of time (when out of the water) commenting on the way their collective surfing is judged, where the contests are held, and how they're run.

Kelly Slater is not an exception here, and has had thoughts on everything from contest judging to contest venues to contest formats and statistics over the years. He sat down with WorldProSurfers.com earlier this year in Europe to share his thoughts on the eighth world title, contest formats and leader boards. Watch the interview now.

Buttons Launches New Surf & Skate Brand in Hawaii

Way back when I was a little, little kid just taking an interest in surfing, Hawaiian local boy Buttons Kaluhiokalani was a total star. Along with his South Shore sidekick Mark Liddell, Buttons drew lines that few – if any – other surfers in the world could match at spots like Kaisers and Ala Moana.

Watching Buttons recently in the film Ultimate Sessions definitely brought back some good memories, even though the footage was captured on the North Shore as opposed to his South Shore stomping grounds.

Although Buttons has faced a variety of challenges in his life (causing him to fall off the surf world’s radar for a period of time), it’s great to see him now involved with his own signature brand, Buttons Hawaii, which focuses on surfboards, skateboards and apparel.

Want to find out what Buttons Hawaii is all about? Visit ButtonsHawaii.com.

Another Lay Day for O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach

It's Sunday morning on the North Shore of Oahu and things are pretty quiet. Pearl Jam played the Blaisdell Center in Honolulu last night and the University of Hawaii football team finally lost a game, to Oregon State at Aloha Stadium.

Some Christmas shopping is actually sounding pretty good today, as we await our next swell (rumored to arrive tomorrow). The Surfing Magazine web site has been doing a great job with their weekly North Shore synopsis, so if you're interested in finding out what's been happening during the past week click this link, or simply scroll through the blog entries below.

Hawaii Surf Session Report Celebrates First Anniversary

Just found out that Hawaii Surf Session Report recently celebrated its first anniversary with an extra-long (nearly seven minute) film capturing North Shore action the weekend before Thanksgiving.

As mentioned a couple of weeks back in this blog, while the WQS guys were getting skunked down the road at Haleiwa during the Op Pro, the rest of the North Shore was absolutely firing. This clip is proof positive.

I think it was Taylor Knox who once proclaimed "Log Cabins is not a surf spot," but you might beg to differ after watching this episode of Hawaii Surf Session Report. And if you dig jazz, you'll like the soundtrack.

Longboard TV Episodes and Seasons Available for Download

If you're a longboard enthusiast (or know someone who is), you may be pleased to know that individual episodes and even complete seasons of Longboard TV (shown regularly on Fuel) are available for download.

Longboard TV describes itself as "the first and only international TV series devoted exclusively to long board surfing," and is very well put together.

Interested in finding out more? Visit SurfHistory.com.

Surfrider Foundation Issues 2006 State of the Beach Report

The Surfrider Foundation has released its 2006 State of the Beach Report and it provides some pretty interesting reading.

Not surprisingly, many beaches worldwide continue to receive some very low ratings in the areas of water quality, erosion response and shoreline structures.

My recommendation: read through your local report and then think about doing something. Getting involved is as easy visiting Surfrider.org.

Melanie Bartels Goes Big With Win at Roxy Pro Sunset Beach

Melanie Bartels from Hawaii notched a big win yesterday afternoon at the Roxy Pro at Sunset Beach, taking out red-hot Stephanie Gilmore from Australia and Women's WCT fixtures Chelsea Georgeson and Rochelle Ballard in some fun-sized conditions.

The 'CT girls will now be sent off the rock known as Oahu and are headed to Kapalua, Maui, where they'll hope that Honolua Bay turns on during their next holding period that begins next week. We'll miss that crazy partying Aussie Claire Bevilacqua, whose stories usually bring a chuckle or two in the lineup.

On the guys side, round four was completed and Kelly Slater managed to advance in a fairly horrible heat. Slater has never fared well at Sunset. Bruce Irons went down while bro Andy took one more small step toward another Triple Crown title, and finally, junior superstar Kekoa Bacalso won a heat this afternoon, taking down two WCT competitors.

Waiting for this morning's call. TripleCrownofSuring.com.

Kelly Slater on Waimea Bay

As reported last night, the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau held its opening ceremonies yesterday, and the holding period has now begun.

Pearl Jam has just arrived in Hawaii (rumored to be staying at the Turtle Bay Resort), and played a private concert, with Kelly Slater joining the band onstage (as he may do again at Blaisdell Center in Honolulu tomorrow night, and again next Saturday night at Aloha Stadium when Pearl Jam opens for U2).

Speaking of Slater, the Quiksilver.com site has an interesting interview with the eight-time world champ, specifically on his relationship with - and experiences at - Waimea Bay, site of the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau event. Read the interview.

Runman's 'Bruce Movie' - Good For a Few Laughs

If you've never seen a Runman film, you really have to see them to believe 'em.

For Runman's take on The Bruce Movie, check out this short at YouTube.

For more on Runman, visit RunmanFilms.com.

Holly Beck Pens North Shore Blog This Winter

Is Holly Beck the hottest (looking) girl in surfing these days? My vote is a resounding "yes!" So I was really pleased to run across a pretty detailed blog that Holly has been updating here and there during her stay on the North Shore this year.

Holly Beck's North Shore blog is at LAT34.com. Worthwhile reading...

O'Neill World Cup of Surfing Rolls On

Fun day today. A round and a half of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing ran at Sunset Beach, and up the road at Waimea Bay this afternoon, the Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau big wave event held its annual opening ceremony.

At Sunset, Jesse Merle-Jones and Ola Eleogram kept rolling right along with heat wins, and former Triple Crown champ Myles Padaca and Californian Chris Ward looked really good as well.

Things are about to get serious, with the upper ranks of the WCT scheduled to hit the water once the event resumes. Stay tuned at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Dirty Little Secrets of the North Shore

Hang around the North Shore of Oahu long enough and you'll come to realize that the following is not true of this fabled stretch of coastline:

• The surf is good all the time during the winter months (it's not always good).
• The weather is always sunny and warm (it rains - sometimes a lot - and can actually feel pretty cool in the winter).
• The surf is perfectly groomed by trade winds (the winds do not generally blow directly offshore, and many times they blow too hard or from the wrong direction entirely).
• The surf on the North Shore is the best in the world (quite a few South Pacific and Indian Ocean locations have consistently better surf than the North Shore).

A few dirty little secrets of the North Shore while we wait for Sunset Beach to turn on again for the next rounds of Triple Crown competition. But despite the above four points, there's nowhere else I'd rather be.

Stay informed at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Tom Curren and Brian Toth Invade Russia in Rip Curl's 'Project Red'

Last night we watched Rip Curl's Project Red documentary, Tivo'd from Fuel TV. Featuring Tom Curren and Brian Toth making a first foray into Russian surf a few years back, the show is part a Rip Curl's innovative program, The Search.

Project Red is really well put-together, and following a typhoon, Curren and Toth actually manage to score some head-high rights that bear resemblance to a cold-water Kirra.

Check out a trailer for Rip Curl's Project Red on YouTube, and catch it if you can on Fuel TV.

Gabe Kling on His Way to the WCT in 2007

Ask any major league baseball player, and he'll tell you that six years in the minor leagues is a long time. But ask a guy who's been on the WQS curcuit for the same amount of time, and I'll guarantee he'll tell you it's rough going.

Gabe Kling is one of those WQS guys. His dues now paid, Kling envisions light at the end of a looooong tunnel as we enter 2007.

Read Gabe Kling's story of his journey to surfing's World Championship Tour (including slideshow and audio clips) at Surfline.com.

Lazy Days Awaiting Triple Crown Action

So it's the end of lay day number two (in a row) for the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach. Time to take a day off after a pretty good run of swell that began about 10 days ago.

No big hurry to get the contest going again, as the holding period lasts until December 6. Then the guys head for Pipe and the next battle, and the girls are off to Honolua Bay on Maui (and yes, a stay at the ultra-luxurious Ritz-Carlton resort at Kapalua).

In the meantime, get a little workout and some stretching in. The swell may turn on enough tomorrow for the action to resume. As always, check TripleCrownofSurfing.com for daily updates and the live webcast.

Scotland Surf Trip - Worth It?

If you had the chance to go on a surf trip to the far northeastern coast of Scotland, would you do it?

It's cold there. Very cold. It's cloudy more often than not. It rains frequently and sometimes in the winter it snows. You've got to want it bad some days...really bad.

Thinking you'd rather pass? See if this video clip from YouTube changes your mind.

Gift the Gift of a Malaria-Free Life This Year

Looking for a great gift for a surfer on your list this holiday season, while doing the right thing and helping to save lives? Then give the gift of SurfAid.

What is SurfAid? It's a program that began six years ago when surfer Dr. Dave Jenkins visited the Mentawai Islands and was shocked by what he found there: residents plagued with malaria and and variety of other preventable diseases. So Jenkins established SurfAid International, a non-profit organization dedicated to the alleviation of human suffering through community-based health programs.

This year, you can give the gift of SurfAid by purchasing gift packages at SurfAidInternational.org. Packages include SurfAid T-shirts with slogans like "Malaria Sucks" or "Wave of Compassion," the award winning "Wave of Compassion" and "Next Wave" Double DVD, as well as a SurfAid Gift Membership.

Interested in finding out more? Visit SurfAid International's gift purchase page.

Travis Potter: World Class Feral

When's the last time you heard a story of a guy (or group of guys) who have the feral thing down? You know, the type of person that can make a few hundred bucks a month go a really long way by forgetting about the air-conditioned resort or boat trip, and opting instead for true adventure and discovery at some of the world's best surf destinations?

Timmy Turner is one of those guys. His buddy Travis Potter is another. And Jake Howard's interview with Potter sheds a lot of light on what it means to be a world-class feral in 2006. Read it now at SurferMag.com.

Young Pups and Older Dogs Can 'Run with the Pak'

What's that you say, young pup? You wanna run with the Pak? You mean the WolfPak, those most notorious of North Shore enforcers?

Then you'd better check out the Run with the Pak trailer on YouTube now.

Battle of the North Shore Brands

Is it just me, or does it seem like every winter on the North Shore, a new, upstart brand emerges?

There are at least three North Shore-based surf brands currently battling it out to capture the imagination and hard-earned dollars (or at least the allowance) of surfers throughout the United States and worldwide.

The first - and definitely most recognizable - is Da Hui, founded by the legendary Eddie Rothman, licensed by Sunny Garcia, and featuring (among other teamriders) Eddie's son Makua.

Next, we have WolfPak, run by Kala Alexander, perhaps the most fierce of the Pipeline enforcers. This brand had a big year in 2005 but has seemed to run out of steam a bit in 2006, perhaps in favor of...

Pipeline Posse, with Braden Dias, Jamie Sterling and friends, which has been enhancing its visibility this year with a new line of tees, hats, hoodies...you name it. Also made of up Pipeline enforcers, the Posse if somewhat less notorious than WolfPak or Da Hui.

It's great to see the various ways in which entrepreneurial young surfers are making a living on the North Shore. Whether it's movies, apparel, photography or simply outsurfing the international pros that are currently visiting, the energy level among North Shore surfers is consistently high these days and there's always something positive going on.

O'Neill World Cup of Surfing - Day Two

The men have now finished their second day of competition at the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach. The swell has clearly been dropping, so what do contest organizers tend to do in dropping (but still contestable) conditions on the North Shore? That's right, they send the girls out.

WQS warrior Alex Gray from Palos Verdes managed to advance today, and pick up some valuable 'QS points. Hawaiians Miles Padaca and Sean Moody have been looking pretty good, as did Hank Gaskell, who's better known for his exploits at Pipeline.

So now the women are in the water for the Roxy Pro Hawaii and by far the biggest surprise to date has been Layne Beachley, who's as comfortable as any female pro at Sunset and yet finished third in her first round heat.

Watch the girls charge now at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Jesse Merle-Jones, Derek Ho Advance at O'Neill World Cup of Surfing

The first day of the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing has now been completed and Hawaii's Jesse Merle-Jones was the standout, winning two heats and posting the highest score so far in round one of the event.

I was on a flight to Los Angeles once with Jesse and all hell broke loose when a woman went to the bathroom to smoke. Jesse's comment? "Guess she just couldn't wait," or something to that effect.

Old warhorse and former world champ Derek Ho showed he still has what it takes to win a heat against strong WQS competition, while the just-turned-14 John John Florence didn't exactly set the world on fire in his trials heat, finishing last against some veteran competition (Miles Padaca, Sean Moody and Kahea Hart).

Here's a question for the pundits to mull over: will John John be the next Kelly Slater...or the next Mark Healey? Time will tell.

North Shore on November 15: The Calm Before The Swell

Just finished taking a look at Hawaii Surf Session Report #111 from Backdoor/Off the Wall. November 15 was a very interesting day on the North Shore, as a large-scale earthquake in Japan sent a tsunami scare through much of the Pacific, including the Hawaiian Islands.

In the end though, no tsunamis materialized and it was just another fun - but small - day on the North Shore, right before last week's swell arrived and we had something more serious to get excited about.

Want to see what many winter days look like on the North Shore? Then check out Hawaii Surf Session Report #111 from Backdoor/Off the Wall (featuring, among others, Dane Reynolds) at podcasts.yahoo.com.

John John Florence to Surf Today at O'Niell World Cup of Surfing

The Triple Crown's youngest competitor, 14 year-old John John Florence, is set to surf trials heat #7 at the O'Niell World Cup of Surfing today at Sunset Beach.

John John didn't surf particularly well at last week's Op Pro at Haleiwa, and when I saw him in the lineup at Backdoor on Sunday morning, he kinda looked over it. So we'll see how he does out at Sunset in about an hour.

The event is live right now at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

O'Neill World Cup of Surfing on NOW at Sunset Beach!

It's day one of the holding period for the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach and the contest has already begun.

A couple of trials rounds has already been completed, with Kauai boy Jesse Merle-Jones winning the first heat of the day.

Conditions are not big, but it's clean and the sun is out. Tune in for the live webcast at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Andy Irons Has Yet Another Triple Crown in His Sights

Okay, it's just past 10:00 p.m. here on Oahu and the parties are winding down, as local hero and three-time world champ Andy Irons took the first jewel in the Triple Crown of Surfing at Haleiwa earlier this afternoon.

Irons' strong performances in no less than four heats today showed that he's not only the best of the best in Hawaiian waters, but that he has a little Hawaii Ironman in him as well.

Local boy Joel Centeio put himself within reach of qualifying for the WCT with a surprising third place finish (seems that the Op Pro always has an unusual suspect in its final each year). The next contest (and WQS season finale) is the O'Neill World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach, and the holding period for that one begins in just three short days, so Centeio shouldn't have to wait too long to have his WCT fate determined.

Check the TripleCrownofSurfing.com site daily for latest news and live webcasts.

Bruce Irons and the Waimea Bay Tube of Death

Was in a Quiksilver store last night and couldn't resist picking up the 2006/2007 Eddie Aikau contest t-shirt. Playing on the video screen above the Eddie merchandise was a clip of Bruce Irons' winning wave from December 2004, the culmination of which was a tube of death in the infamous Waimea shorepound.

Anyone who hasn't seen Bruce's minute-plus ride from the outside to the sand at Waimea should take a look at this clip on YouTube.

Things Get Serious at Op Pro at Haleiwa

This afternoon things finally started to get interesting at the Op Pro at Ali'i Beach Park in Haleiwa.

The boys were finally riding proper Haleiwa rights, and although conditions weren't epic by any stretch, the surf was still the best it's been all month for the traditional first jewel of the Triple Crown of Surfing.

Who advanced: Ben Bourgeois, Joel Parkinson, Luke Stedman, Bruce and Andy Irons, Mick Fanning, Roy Powers, Joel Centeio, Phil MacDonald, Fredrick Patacchia and Taj Burrow, among others.

Who's out: Makua Rothman, Pancho Sullivan, Sunny Garcia, Chris Ward, Taylor Knox, Cory Lopez, Tom Curren and Dustin Cuizon.

The macking north swell that lit up the North Shore over the weekend and into today is now on the decline. Organizers would be wise to try and finish things up at Haleiwa tomorrow. Tune in for the action at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Dan and Dave Do Durban

Durban, South Africa's Bay of Plenty really does have plenty to offer Dan Redman & David Weare, as confirmed by today's clip from YouTube.

If I'm not mistaken, the Bay of Plenty of one of those South African spots that has nets to keep sharks out of the lineup and surfers in it, as whiteys tend to be pretty active in that region.

Catch the Dan and Dave show in Durban at YouTube.

North Shore Awakens - Op Pro to Go Big Tomorrow

With three days now left in the holding period, organizers of the Op Pro at Haleiwa are about to see their luck turn, as the swell was on the rise all day and much of the North Shore will see 15' plus surf on Monday.

Today the contest rolled on, leaving Avalanche for knee to waist high lefts (yes, you read this correctly, lefts) at Ali'i Beach Park. It's kind of a shame that after slogging it out in mostly depressing surf all year, the WQS guys come to Hawaii and basically find the same smallish contest surf they've been dealing with all year.

WCT hopeful Pat Gudauskas from San Clemente saw his major league dreams probably end today (at least for the '07 tour), as he went down at the hands of Hawaiians Ola Eleogram and Makua Rothman.

I'm betting that Haleiwa will be showing somewhat better form for tomorrow's proceedings, which begin at 8:00 a.m. Hawaii time and can be watched live at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

New World Professional Surfers Site Arrives on the Scene

What's that you say? You're a fan of pro surfing and you'd like to learn more about the lifestyles of your favorite ASP surfers?

Well, you are in luck, as a slick new web site called World Professional Surfers has launched, with an incredible amount of content, including blogs from Top 44 pros, Joel Parkinson's post-contest Hossegor blowout, the new Dana Brown documentary filming right now on the North Shore called High Water, and much, much more.

This site is worth a long look. Check it out NOW at WorldProSurfers.com.

Joel Parkinson Blows Up at Lani's

...so while the Op Pro was running out at Avalanche, most folks on the North Shore were taking advantage of a newly arrived swell and perfect, sunny weekend weather.

I paddled out at Laniakea and was very pleasantly surprised to see Aussie Joel Parkinson in the water. Watching Parkinson surf is a real treat: speed, style, and awe-inspring (i.e. jaw dropping) fins-free turns in powerful, head-high to overhead surf.

Wanna see Parko in action for yourself? Check out some footage at YouTube.

Mens Op Pro at Haleiwa Finally Gets Going

Okay, lots of ground to cover since my last post. The waves on the North Shore have been smallish most of the week, and for the Op Pro at Haleiwa (the first jewel of this year's Triple Crown), that meant only one thing: send out the girls.

Former women's world champ Sofia Mulanovich from Peru handled all comers earlier in the week, and with the swell finally on the rise at most spots on the North Shore, the call was made this morning to begin the men's contest.

Note that I said the swell was rising at most North Shore spots. Ali'i Beach Park at Haleiwa was the exception, picking up one to two foot dribblers.

What happened next was interesting: today's heat were held at Avalanche of all places! Now I don't claim to be much of a surf historian, but I don't think that I'm going too far out on a limb by guessing that this was the first time a major pro contest has ever been run at Avalanche.

Obviously, a lot of competitors were caught a bit off guard. Some guys were simply over it: Jayme O'Brien showed up for his heat, took fourth and went back home. The standout was Makua Rothman, who won both his heats.

The swell is still on the rise and I have to think that Monday will see Haleiwa going off...like it should be for a Triple Crown event. Tune in for the all the action and news at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

Highlights from the 2005 Op Pro at Haleiwa

It's sooooooooo very flat on the North Shore, I went looking around for some clips of the 2005 Op Pro at Haleiwa and found a gem (as usual) on YouTube.

The best part of the clip (in this writer's humble opinion) is Sunny Garcia's outrageous double barrel on a Haleiwa macker, set to what I believe is Brazilian rap metal music.

Check out the video at YouTube.

Triple Crown Waiting Period Kicks Off

It's late afternoon on the North Shore of Oahu, and today is the first day of the waiting period for the Op Pro North Shore Makahiki Festival contest at Ali'i Beach Park in Haleiwa.

Unfortunately, the North Shore could not be more freakin' FLAT!!! Nary a ripple coming through at Haleiwa, and it looks like it could take until Wednesday to get things going.

Daily reports on the Triple Crown proceedings are available at TripleCrownofSurfing.com.

ASP World Masters Championships Set to Resume

Do fans of competitive surfing appreciate "legends" or "masters" (you know "old guy") events as much as fans of - say - golf?

If the spotty past history of the ASP World Masters Championships is any indication, then the answer is "no."

But that hasn't stopped ASP kingpin Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew and veteran Brazilian pro Flavio Padaratz from giving the concept another shot - this time with a three-year run in Brazil between 2007 and 2009.

And let's face it, guys like Shaun Tomson, Tom Carroll, Michael Ho, Tom Curren and Rabbit himself (notice I didn't mention Occy, who's over 40 and still competes on the WCT) are incredible talents, then and now.

The next ASP World Masters Championships should be a good one. For the complete story, visit TransWorldSurf.com.

Coco Ho - Like Father, Like Daughter

Just finished watching Hawaii Surf Session Report number 110 from Pupukea on Oahu's North Shore, and was struck by the ripping performance of little Coco Ho (Michael Ho's daughter; Derek Ho's neice).

Seems young Ms. Ho may give Carissa Moore a run for her money in the battle for the next (or is that the first?) women's world title holder from Hawaii.

Check out Hawaii Surf Session Report 110 from Pupukea at Podcasts.Yahoo.com.

Topanga: The Rodney Dangerfield of Malibu

The sectiony point right at Topanga and Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu certainly does not get as much respect as Third Point Malibu or certainly Rincon, but on the right day, with the right swell in the water, it can be very, very fun.

Check out today's clip from YouTube, featuring a shoulder-high (and crowded) day at Topanga, the Rodney Dangerfield of Malibu surfing.

Tuamotu Region: As Good As Tavarua?

Was talking to a guy earlier this afternoon who returned from a surf trip/family vacation to the Tahitian Tuamotu Atolls, specifically Tikehau.

After four days of absolute uncrowded (read: nobody else out) perfection, this guy is completely convinced that the remote reefs off Tikehau offer the most perfect South Pacific surf this side of Tavarua.

Think he's right? Want to find out for yourself? Here's what Waterways Travel says about the Tuamotu Atolls:

"There are very few local surfers in the Tuamotus, and no land based surf camps. You should expect that there will be many times when your group is surfing alone. In addition, it is my experience that the local surfers are some of the friendliest in the world when approached with the general respect they deserve."

For more information on surfing the Tuamotus, visit WaterwaysTravel.com.

Free 'Bounty Hunters' Surf Video Available Now

Just watched an action-packed clip from Pete Frieden's movie Bounty Hunters, all 43 minutes of which can be downloaded for free at TotalVid.com.

Here's a link to a short snippet that focuses on Pipeline and Backdoor (check out Shane Dorian's performance) at YouTube.

And here's a link to the full Bounty Hunters video at TotalVid.com.

South Beach Miami Turns on at YouTube

Think that all there is to do on Miami's South Beach are Roller Blading all-night salsa bars? No, there are waves to be found at Miami Beach (sometimes), and this video clip from YouTube is proof positive.

WCT After Brazil: Who's on the Bubble?

Okay, so Mick Fanning won the WCT contest in Brazil. Second win of the year, moved up to second in the ratings behind Kelly Slater, blah blah blah.

What's really interesting heading into the Pipeline Masters next month is who's in serious danger of falling off the WCT entirely.

Here's the list of notables:

- Pancho Sullivan (unlikely with his current #26 rating and his track record at Pipe)
- Chris Ward (probably no injury wildcard this year)
- Roy Powers (currently sitting below the WQS qualifying line; needs strong performances at 'QS Triple Crown events in home waters)
- Jake Paterson (needs to pull a rabbit out of his hat at Pipe)

The fun in Hawaii starts next week. Check out TripleCrownofSurfing.com forr coverage.

Sunset Beach Action About to Crank Up

It's now the first of November, and that means that the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing will take center stage this month.

With this in mind, top pros weigh in on Sunset Beach (and draw lines through Sunset's inside bowl) in today's clip from YouTube.

Ever Thought About a Galapagos Surf Trip?

Gregg Drude may not have found too much to get excited about in the Galapagos Islands, but from the looks of today's clip from YouTube, spots like La Loberia and Tongo Reef show plenty of promise.

Watch the video now at YouTube.

Gregg Drude's 'Round the Globe Surf Journey

Gregg Drude had a simple dream: sell everything he had, buy a suitable boat, then embark on an around the world sail in search of good waves.

As John Fowler describes it for Surfer Magazine, Drude is enjoying a modern day "endless summer," as he's already explored Latin and South America and much of the South Pacific. Last month Drude reported that he's about a third of the way through his journey, one that many surfers have thought about but few have undertaken.

Follow Gregg Drude's quest at SurferMag.com.

Sundance Channel's 'Iconoclasts" Features Laird Hamilton and Eddie Vedder

Just got word that the Sundance Channel's acclaimed series Iconoclasts is featuring an hour long episode on the relationship between friends Eddie Vedder (of Pearl Jam) and big-wave legend Laird Hamilton.

Visit SundanceChannel.com for airtimes and a video preview.

Groms Light Up Imperial Beach

A pair of groms tear up Imperial Beach Pier on what look to be brand new Greg Tate boards.

It's always interesting to watch stoked groms try and do turns when they're still too light to really put a regular-sized board on its rail.

Watch the action now at YouTube.

'Someday the Waves' Chronicles Fiji and New Zealand Surf

Someday the Waves is a well-put together short film on Super 8 that documents a group of friends' surf trip to Fiji and New Zealand.

The search for waves is successful, and even though the surfing is at times pretty average, the film provides a good example of how home-grown footage can be assembled and brought to the Web at sites like YouTube.

One question comes to mind when watching the clip: If you were planning a trip to a warm-water locale (like Fiji) and a cool-water destination (New Zealand), which place would you visit first?

Watch Someday the Waves now at YouTube.

BuenaOnda Presents Zippers and the East Cape of Los Cabos

The Los Cabos/East Cape region of Baja escaped yet another hurricane threat today, as Hurricane Paul weakened to tropical storm force.

For all of the development in the area, it's still very possible to find high quality, uncrowded surf at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, as BuenaOnda Surf demonstrates in today's video clip on YouTube.

Gold Coast Girl Stephanie Gilmore Lights Up Women's WCT as Wildcard

Red-hot Aussie Stephanie Gilmore has now one two separate women's WCT events as a wildcard.

Gilmore is currently sitting in second on the women's WQS with one event remaining at Haleiwa, meaning she'll be causing 'CT vets headaches on a full time basis next year.

Surfine's women's channel has an excellent feature on Stephanie Gilmore, complete with audio clips. Watch it now at Surfline.

Ten Easy Steps to Protect Coral Reefs

It's no big secret that many (perhaps most) of the world's once-pristine coral reefs are in serious jeopardy.

From the Maldives to Madagascar, coral reefs and the fish, animals and plants that depend on them are under attack. And who's the culprit? You and me, pal.

According to Nature.org, there are ten easy steps that any one of us can take to help protect coral reefs. And most of the ten are common-sense things that will help prevent the water quality at your local beachbreak from further deteriorating as well.

Check out the list at Nature.org.

Sri Lanka in 2005 - Before the Latest Round of Violence

It's unfortunate that Sri Lanka has more to offer than just world-class point break surf. The latest round of ethnic violence in the country has made travel by Westerners unsafe to say the least.

Let's hope that some measure of stability can return to Sri Lanka soon, as this morning's clip from YouTube demonstrates what we're missing.

Sunny Garcia Prison-Bound

After several months of speculation following Sunny Garcia's guilty plea to charges of tax evasion, a sentence has been handed down: three months in a minimum security prison beginning this coming January.

Considering that the Internal Revenue Service claimed that Garcia had failed to pay taxes on more than $400,000 in prize money, Sunny's sentence was viewed as relatively lenient, and will enable him to participate in next month's Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore if he chooses.

For the full story on Sunny Garcia's sentencing, visit SurfingTheMag.com.

Tom Curren Lights Up Puerto Escondido in YouTube Clip

Santa Barbara native and multiple world champion Tom Curren has always been known as one of the most stylish, most well-rounded talents that the surf world has ever seen.

He's hardly slowed down as he's moved past 40 years of age, although he may have shifted his focus a bit over the years to have more of a tube-riding orientation.

Curren takes on some fun-sized Puerto Escondido in today's clip at YouTube.

Jamie Brisick Uncovers the Jamaica Surf Scene in Surfline Feature

Anybody who has spent some time in Jamaica has probably noticed that the people are extremely proud of their country, their culture and the many things the island nation has to offer. Including the surf, which certainly isn't the best to be found in the Caribbean but continues to inspire an increasing amount of Jamaicans.

In a new Surfline feature, journalist Jamie Brisick uncovers the positive vibes of the surf scene in Jamaica, with colorful photographs and insightful comments from the surfers themselves.

Turn your computer's speakers on for this one, at Surfline.

Waves Await in American Samoa, But Can You Get There?

Seems the governor of American Samoa is seeking to ban Hawaiian Airlines from flying to the U.S. territory. He's accusing Hawaiian Airlines of abusing a monopoly that Hawaiian enjoys on the routing between Hawaii and American Samoa by charging inflated airfare prices (usually around three times the amount that Hawaiian Airlines charges for flights of similar distances).

This is an interesting development, and maybe the biggest question mark involves how any residents of American Samoa will be able to travel anywhere. And obviously, the surf tourism business could be significantly affected.

So the key question: good surf awaits in American Samoa, but will surfers still be able to get there? Here's a video clip that shows you what you might be missing right now in American Samoa, on YouTube.

Machine-Made Waves and Wipes at the WaveHouse

Is there a way to kick out or exit cleanly from one of those machine-made "waves" at places like the WaveHouse in Pacific Beach? Or do you just come unstuck and go over the falls or disappear into oblivion while deeply tubed?

Here's three-plus minutes of action from the WaveHouse at YouTube.

The San Onofre Surf Trip Documented

This morning the emergency horns will be sounding at the San Onofre nuclear power plant south of San Clemente.

But not to worry, it's just a scheduled test and is highly unlikely to slow down the dedicated San Onofre surf crowd, which has been enjoying the mellow, friendly vibe at the storied break for decades now.

Today's YouTube video captures the family camping/surf trip to San Onofre in all its timeless glory. Watch the clip now at YouTube.

Barbados Becomes 'Bombados'

The world-famous Soup Bowl on Barbados goes mental in this nearly 10-minute long clip at YouTube.

A big November swell and both free and contest surfing are featured. By the end of the contest, at least 33 boards had been broken. Watch the Barbados bomb and barrel-fest now at YouTube.

To Pay, Or Not Pay, For Surf Reports and Forecasts

There's been quite a bit of talk during the past several months about the merits of Surfline, the original - but pricey - surf reporting and forecasting service, and WaveWatch, the upstart challenger that's absolutely free.

Surfline definitely has the better economic model, with both subscription and advertising revenue. And the site reflects it, by providing the most comprehensive coverage of regions and spots worldwide, with content features that rival the sites of Surfer or Surfing Magazine.

But Surfline can be expensive. My tip: if you've got the dough for Surfline, shell it out and feel good about it. But if you're cash-challenged, try WaveWatch or even the improving wetSand. They may not be able to replace the old-fashioned surf recon run, but these sites are sure to save you plenty of $2.50 gallons of gas.

Pipe, Rocky Point Go Off on Friday the 13th

Got an e-mail from a friend who mentioned that the North Shore was absolutely fun and firing this past Friday the 13th.

The word from Hawaii is that there has been about 10 times the normal amount of rain so far this fall, but you'd never know it by checking out a clip from Hawaii Surf Session Report that features action from Pipeline, Backdoor and Rocky Point this past Friday.

Blue skies, ideal conditions, bikinis, grom rippers and a quick Mark Healey interview provide the highlights from Surf Session 107, which can be downloaded at Podcasts.Yahoo.com.

Supertubes - California Style

A little slice of old school-style punk rock provides the soundtrack for some heavy, sandy barrels at California's version of Supertubes in today's clip from YouTube.

As mentioned in a previous post, Supertubes is a semi-secret spot along Pacific Coast Highway and if you go looking for it and don't know exactly when to look for it, chances are you'll never see it break.

Watch the Supertubes video now at YouTube.

'Surf City' High School Surf Team in Action

...and in case you're wondering which town I was referring to in my previous post about its "mostly crappy, mostly closed-out" beachbreak, I've found a short clip on YouTube of its high school surf team doing its best with the type of surf I just described.

Watch the video now on YouTube.

'Surf City' Rivalry Gets Petty

Lots of hoopla last Friday in California about the "Surf City" rivalry between Huntington Beach and Santa Cruz.

Seems that each town's been staking its claim to the name for years, and what's previously been mostly in good fun has gotten more serious, more petty and more ridiculous as Huntington Beach has trademarked the term and shopowners in Santa Cruz have retained attorneys to sue H.B. so they can continue to sell "Surf City" merchandise.

It's always fun and games until the almighty dollar is implicated, and yet it's unlikely that most actual surfers care at all about which California beach town is nicknamed "Surf City."

But here's one surfer's definite perspective on things: there's no way a town with mostly crappy, mostly closed-out beachbreak surf should be called (by anybody) "Surf City."

Here's a link to the full story at Newsvine.com.

Al Merrick Stoked After Billabong Pro Mundaka

...and speaking of Bobby Martinez's win over Kelly Slater at the Billabong Pro Mundaka (and Slater's eighth world championship), could anyone have been more stoked than Al Merrick of Channel Islands Surfboards, who has shaped for and mentored both Martinez and Slater for many years.

There's a great interview with Merrick in the current issue of Surfer Magazine, on newsstands now.

Bobby Martinez Will Be WCT Rookie of the Year

A lot of folks associated with the ASP's World Championship Tour will look at Bobby Martinez's win at the Billabong Pro Mundaka as anti-climactic, as it came one heat after Kelly Slater won his unprecedented eighth world title.

But in taking home his second WCT event victory of the year, Martinez has basically guaranteed Rookie of the Year status on the major league tour, and Bobby's two event wins equal Slater's count this year.

It's on to Brazil at the end of the month. For a complete recap of the Billabong Pro Mundaka, visit ASPWorldTour.com.

They Come on Wednesdays

Have you ever noticed how frequently big swells happen to arrive (or peak) on Wednesdays?

Wednesday. Right in the middle of the work week, with just the most committed around to score the waves.

Of course, "big" means different things to different people, including the Nova Scotia surfers featured in today's video from YouTube, sampling their own version of "Big Wednesday."

Watch the guy on the really short board just totally claim it about three minutes into the clip, at YouTube.

Kelly Slater Wins World Championship Number Eight

First, Mick Fanning went down in the quarters. Next, it was Bobby Martinez eliminating Andy Irons. Then Dean "Dingo" Morrison took care of Taj Burrow.

And finally - appropriately - Kelly Slater finished the job himself, beating Joel Parkinson in the semi-finals of the Billabong Pro in Spain and mathematically eliminating all other challengers from contention.

Kelly Slater has won his eight world title, and second in succession!

The contest has yet to be completed, as one semi-final heat and the final remain tomorrow. Log on to ASPWorldTour.com for the final day on Saturday.

Billabong Pro Spain Moves to Beachbreak

The Billabong Pro that has to date been held at Mundaka was moved down the coast today to Bakio, which provided the world's top pros with some rippable beachbreak peaks.

Three of the four quarterfinal heats were completed, and Kelly Slater and Joel Parkinson took care of business in the first two heats, then Bobby Martinez stunned three-time world champ Andy Irons in a fairly close heat. The Martinez victory might have been slightly more predictable had the heat been held in point lefts at Mundaka, but in beachbreak righthanders most observers had to think that A.I. would have the edge.

One more day of competition is required to complete the event, with two days left in the holding period. Log on for the final day of action at ASPWorldTour.com.

How Big and How Good Does it Get in Oregon?

I'm currently wearing a University of Oregon t-shirt, so it's no big surprise that this question just occured to me.

An answer is provided by today's YouTube clip, which features some narraton and a soundtrack from the Jack Johnson flick Thicker Than Water (copyright infringement...what copyright infringement?).

Watch the video now at YouTube.

Billabong Pro Mundaka Stays on Hold

No news is bad news in Spain, as the Billabong Pro at Mundaka remains on hold. There are three days left in the waiting period and we've not yet completed round three.

This one may be destined to end badly. Tune in for the latest news and live action at ASPWorldTour.com.

Brian, How Can You Do It?

Brian Keaulana is an absolute legend on the Hawaii surf scene. He's brought groundbreaking techniques to the lifeguard profession. He's ridden some of the biggest waves on the planet, and won tandem surfing competitions in knee-high mush. He comes from one of the most respected families in the state, and he's built a strong resume as a stuntman and served as a technical consultant on any number of big-budget Hollywood productions.

Brain Keaulana is a waterman in every sense of word. So why has he assumed a production role on the teeny-bopper, bubble gum show Beyond the Break? Sure, the show is set on Keaulana's beloved West Side of Oahu, but the first season was absolutely horrible, and it could be argued that the show actually does a disservice to the surf culture.

Lots of room for improvement here. Brian, can you turn Beyond the Break into something respectable?

Timeless Action From Windansea

Shortboard, longboard, any board makes for a good time at Windansea, the classic reef in La Jolla.

A fun afternoon session is captured on today's YouTube clip, with golden skies and both video and still imagery of the timeless peak just outside San Diego. Soundtrack by Sublime. Watch it now at YouTube.

'Girls in the Curl' Make Some Big Bucks in Australia

A major gap has been bridged between the paychecks of men and women on the ASP World Tour. The inaugural Havaianas Beachley Classic went off during the past couple of days in Coolangatta, Australia.

The "Beachley" in the name of the contest is none other than Layne Beachley, multiple women's world championship and the force behind the richest women's surfing event in history.

Stephanie Gilmore won the event over Beachley, earning U.S. $20,000. In taking second, Layne moved into the lead on the Women's WCT with just two events remaining (both in Hawaii).

Can Layne Beachley win another world title? We'll know by late December when the women visit Honolua Bay on Maui for the Billabong Pro.

Round Three on Hold (Again) at Billabong Pro Mundaka

Only sporadic action at the Billabong Pro Mundaka. There are still several days left in the holding period and Mundaka has yet to turn on. But round three is almost completed. With two heats left to go in the round, there haven't been any serious upsets.

Kelly Slater, Andy Irons, Taj Burrow, Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson are all through to round four, and WCT rookies Pancho Sullivan and Bobby Martinez also made good round three showings.

The fourth round will provide some stellar match-ups, and good surf would really help. Keep up to date on the action at ASPWorldTour.com.

Forrest Troxell Tears Maui Apart in YouTube Clip

The east coast of Maui near Hana defines "paradise" for many visitors to the island. Maui surfers like Forrest Troxell feel the same way, as secret and semi-secret spots can be found in the region.

Watch Troxell take apart some good surf in the Hana area (and other locations on Maui) in today's clip at YouTube (which just announced it will be acquired by Google).

Jamie O'Brien Goes Finless

Hawaii-based free surf superstar Jamie O'Brien takes his game to a whole new level by going finless in some shoulder high North Shore surf on an old-school single fin shape.

Check out O'Brien getting his freak on with barrels, doggy-door exits, floaters and more in this morning's hot clip from YouTube.

Zen Del Rio on Beauty, Big Waves and Palos Verdes

Zen Del Rio has seen a lot in his six decades, and has plenty of interesting stories to tell about the things he's seen. Originally from Mexico City, Del Rio moved to Palos Verdes early on and eventually worked his way into a local crew that's one of the most notoriously protective to be found anywhere in the world.

Palos Verdes is a pretty unusual place when you think about it. So much beauty, so much wealth, and so much localism for so many years.

But I digress. Del Rio's artwork colorfully captures the beauty of perfect waves, and his experiences in heavy Hawaiian and Mexican surf are the subject of a "People Who Surf" online feature by Alex Wilson of Surfer Magazine. Read the interview and check out Zen Del Rio's art at SurferMag.com.

Billabong Pro Mundaka Lurches Through Round Two

Okay, after what seems like many days, round two is winding down at the Billabong Pro in Mundaka, Spain.

A good portion of the second half of round two was completed today in smallish conditions. Cory Lopez from Florida looked particularly good in the Mundaka lefts, and a pair of round two heats remain before things (hopefully) get a little more interesting in round three.

Tune in for the latest news and live action at ASPWorldTour.com.

PureDIGITALMaui Presents Honolua Bay at its Finest

When Honolua Bay on Maui's northwestern shore really starts firing, it must be considered one of the absolute best waves in the world.

PureDIGITALMaui captures an epic session from late 2004 at Maui's version of "Da Bay." Watch the clip now at YouTube.

The First Father/Daughter World Champions Coming Soon?

So I was thinking this afternoon that - unless I'm mistaken - there have never been two surfing world champions from the same family. The most likely scenario, of course, would be a title for either Bruce Irons or Damien Hobgood, who both have brothers who've already claimed the title.

But how about this? Father/daughter world champions. It could happen, as Tom Curren's 17 year-old daughter Lee Ann keeps getting hotter and hotter. Lee Ann Curren took out all comers this past summer at the Target Women's Junior Pro at Huntington Beach.

Lee Ann probably has some time remaining before her women's WCT debut, but the style and gene pool are already there, with dad Tom and grandpa Pat Curren. Stay tuned.

Billabong Pro Mundaka Enters Round Two

The second half of round one and a portion of round two were completed today in Spain at the Billabong Pro Mundaka. Andy Irons, Taj Burrow, Pancho Sullivan and others took care of business in the first round, and the lazy Kelly Slater and Dean Morrison advanced out of the "losers" round.

The only round two disappointments so far have come as WCT vets Taylor Knox and Mark Occhilupo fell to younger competitors.

Action will likely begin again tomorrow morning with Hawaiian Fred Patacchia up first. Catch the action live at ASPWorldTour.com.

Shane Dorian: The World's Most Versatile Surfer

Just cracked open the November issue of Surfer Magazine and if you have a chance, take a look at two pictures of Shane Dorian.

The first shot is from the epic sessions in late July at Teahupoo, Tahiti, with Dorian slotted in a backhand barrel so big you could drive a U-Haul truck through it.

The second shot is designed to generate interest in the story on progressive surfing, and Dorian is shown in a sequence blasting up and over the lip on his forehand...as hot a snap as you'll see anyone do today.

So this got me thinking: is Shane Dorian the most versatile surfer in the world right now? I mean, it's difficult to think of anybody who maintains such a high level of performance in both big and small waves.

One other note: the former star of In God's Hands looks to be losing his hair. Oh well, happens to the best of 'em.

Big Island Grom Girls Get No Respect

In my experience, the surf scene on the Big Island doesn't get a whole lot of respect. Girls generally don't get much respect. And groms get dissed fairly regularly.

So why not showcase some grom girls from the Big Island in today's video clip from YouTube? Cool soundtrack on this one.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

WCT pro Taylor Knox maintains that "Log Cabins is not a surf spot."

Based upon what I know of Logs (on the North Shore of Oahu), I'd tend to agree. But as today's clip from YouTube demonstrates, you can find an occasional nugget among the Log Cabins closeouts.

Watch it now at YouTube (a current subject of Google buyout rumors).

WCT Pros Getting Skunked at Mundaka

Okay, so there's about a week left for the holding period at Mundaka, Spain, but things haven't looked too promising so far. Only half of the first round has run, in conditions so poor that Kelly Slater could not be moved to cross the border from France and surf!

We'll see what the next week holds. We know Mundaka can get good again, but the question remains: will it!

Check in for daily updates at the Billabong Pro web site, which needs some work because the "Results" link actually takes you to the "Photos" page.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Overhead action from Supertubes at Jeffrey's Bay, South Africa is featured in the YouTube clip of the day.

Watch what happens when a trio of above-average surfers take advantage of world-class waves. See it now at YouTube.

'In the Lineup' Radio Show and Podcast: Required Listening

The weekly Surfer Magazine Internet radio show and podcast is basically required listening for those interested in great interviews, a little biting commentary and all of the latest news and information from the surf world and surf industry.

Hosted by Scott Bass, the show is produced every Wednesday at noon on the left coast, and is available for live listening at SurferMag.com, or can be downloaded at iTunes and the usual sources.

The shows usually last about an hour, and incoming e-mail and voice mail are usually played, read and/or responded to by the hosts. Sam George used to be on board, but mysteriously disappeared sometime back. But no worries, Bass, Rick Irons, Jake Howard and crew are pretty consistently entertaining.

Surfer Magazine's 'In the Lineup' is definitely worth a listen. Click here for more information.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

A quick session in Western Australia is highlighted in the YouTube video of the day.

With hard carves, foam climbs and a few barrels, this short one's action packed. Watch it now at YouTube.

Billabong Pro Mundaka Begins

We got some initial action at the Billabong Pro Mundaka. Eight first round heat were run, and Kelly Slater was a round one no-show for the second time this year.

California boys Timmy Reyes and Bobby Martinez won their respective heats, as did Aussie's Joel Parkinson and Mick Fanning and both Hobgood brothers.

So what's the story on Slater? Word is that he stayed across the border in France, jumped online after the contest started and saw somewhat disappointing conditions, and just opted to surf the "losers" round.

For a complete wrap-up, visit SurfingTheMag.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

I'm in Milwaukee (of all places) on yet another business trip. I cannot think of a worse place in the United States to visit on a business trip than Milwaukee, but here I am for a couple of days.

Which got me thinking about the hardy, landlocked souls who surf the Great Lakes. You've got to really want to surf bad to paddle out on Lake Erie or Lake Michigan, but guys (and maybe even gals) do it...fairly regularly as I understand.

Here's a clip of some Great Lakes "action" at YouTube.

'Buzzy' Trent Passes On

Big wave charger Charles "Buzzy" Trent has passed away at the age of 77. One of the original big wave hellmen, Buzzy was reportedly the first to refer to a big wave board as a "gun" and was famously quoted as say that "big waves aren’t measured in feet, but in increments of fear.”

Those interested in the pioneering hi-jinks of Buzzy and crew in their prime should watch the first act of Stacy Peralta's Riding Giants.

For more on the life and times of Charles "Buzzy" Trent, visit SurferMag.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Soft, slow mushburgers in Galveston, Texas are highlighted in today's YouTube video clip. Lots of dug rails, lots of longboards and a kid that does a mean head-dip.

Watch it now at YouTube.

Ron Jon Surfpark Promises Overhead Surf - In Orlando

Just spent some time poking around the Ron Jon Surfpark web site. Among other things, good old Ron and Jon are promising that they'll be able to bring overhead, saltwater surf to Orlando sometime fairly soon.

Details are pretty sketchy on exactly where the park is at in terms of construction, but if you've got $60 and are anywhere near Orlando at some point next year, you should be able to get access to 100-yard, peeling eight foot waves for a couple of hours.

Sound promising? No official opening date has yet been announced, but if you're interested in finding out more, visit RonJonSurfpark.com.

Joel Parkinson Wins the Quiksilver Pro France

For the second event in a row, the Foster's "oil cans" came out as the Aussies celebrated a WCT victory by one of their own.

This time it was Joel Parkinson, who took down Mick Fanning handily in an all-Australian final, after Fanning and Parko had beaten Kelly Slater and Andy Irons, respectively, in the semis.

It was Parkinson's first 'CT victory of the year, and he's now moved into fourth in the rankings as we now head for Mundaka, Spain.

The waiting period for the Billabong Pro Mundaka begins mid-week, so stay tuned for more WCT action.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

There was a time when Silver Strand beach in Oxnard, California was one of the most localized surf spots on the planet. Even though there were plenty of photos taken care, the spot was rarely mentioned by name in surf publications, and the locals liked it that way.

For the most part, those days are over. It's no secret that Timmy Curran and his brothers grew up right down the street from Silver Strand, and more images and video clips capture the spot these days when it's going off, including this one from Gary Wilcox at YouTube. George Harrison provides the soundtrack.

Round Three Completed at Quiksilver Pro France

Pretty long day today in Hossegor, France at the Quiksilver Pro France. Only one big upset as round three played out: Taj Burrow went down to Pedro Henrique of Brazil.

Round four will no doubt commence tomorrow morning, with Mick Fanning vs. Bruce Irons in the second heat. Get up early and watch the action live at ASPWorldTour.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

After the Quiksilver Pro France finishes up this weekend at Hossegor, the World Championship Tour moves to Mundaka, Spain. Mundaka had fallen off the surf world's radar for a time last year, and the scheduled WCT event there had to be cancelled due to degradation of the famous left.

But now it's 2006, and Mundaka has made a big-time comeback, as evidenced in today's video from YouTube.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Smallish waves, bumpy conditions, cold water and surprisingly hot surfing accompany this morning's clip from Oregon.

Jack Johnson provides the soundtrack. Watch it now at YouTube.

Rookies Go Down at Quiksilver Pro France

Ah, the trials and tribulations of a rookie surfer on the World Championship Tour.

Just 10 days ago, Aussie Bede Durbidge shocked the surfing world by winning the Boost Mobile Pro at Lower Trestles. Today in France he shocked absolutely nobody by flaming out in the second round of the Quiksilver Pro at Hossegor.

Earlier this year, Santa Barbara homeboy Bobby Martinez looked like a shoo-in for WCT Rookie of the Year honors. Today he joined the ranks of second round losers for the second time in the past three events.

On the other end of the spectrum, you've really got to hand it to Mark Occhilupo. Occy's 40 years young now, and continues to take out younger competitors on a regular basis. The guy's ranked 15th in the world and with another heat win tomorrow, will move up further in the ratings.

Tune in on Thursday for all the action at ASPWorldTour.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Sunny skies, clean conditions, overhead sets and warm(er) water - must mean a hurricane-spawned swell in Rhode Island, and this morning's clip captures it all.

Yes, "average Joe's" can and do post lots and lots of surf video at YouTube.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Sunny skies, clean conditions, overhead sets and warm(er) water - must mean a hurricane-spawned swell in Rhode Island, and this morning's clip captures it all.

Yes, "average Joe's" can and do post lots and lots of surf video at YouTube.

Best Contest Waves Ever at Rip Curl Search Mexico

...and while we continue to wait for round two of the Quiksilver Pro France to begin, some brief commentary on the Rip Curl Search event in Mexico earlier this summer.

I mean, here we are in 2006 and the WCT "Dream Tour" has been playing out for the past several years. So to hear many, many top pros and industry observers call the Rip Curl Search at "La Jolla" the best waves ever for a professional surf contest, it's worth some consideration.

So start your thinking on this topic by taking a look at the video clip from the Rip Curl Search Mexico at SurferMag.com.

Multiple 'Lay' Days Make for Boredom in France

The multiple postponements of the second round of the Quiksilver Pro France at Hossegor have made for some fairly boring days as we wait for the swell (and conditions) to turn on again.

The latest word is that tomorrow is setting up nicely, and things should get going early on Wednesday morning, French time.

Tune in and catch the action live at ASPWorldTour.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

This morning we've found some action from the first Brazilian Tow-In Championship at Jaguaruna reef.

I wonder if it actually gets bigger down in Brazil than what's captured in the footage? Looks like the contest was run in conditions that could be compared to a small day at Todos Santos off Northern Baja.

Check out the clip now at YouTube.

At Season's End, Kevin Correia Gets Back in the Water

The San Francisco Giants' season will end this coming weekend without a trip to the playoffs (again), which means Giants relief pitcher Kevin Correia will be free to pursue his other passion: riding waves.

So here's the question for anyone how knows something about San Diego native Correia: is Kevin a baseball player who really enjoys surfing, or just a surfer who makes a living as a pitcher six months a year?

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Jamie Ballanger is one of Hawaii's top photographers/videographers, and in today's featured video clip, Ballanger captures top pros doing battle at Pipeline (during the Pipeline Masters), Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach.

Watch carefully and you can get a feel for a "behind the boil" takeoff at Waimea and the shiftiness of the inside bowl at Sunset. The music rocks too. Check out the clip now at YouTube.

'Ultimate Sessions' DVD a Must-Have for Those Who Appreciate Surf Movie History

This morning we screened OP's new Ultimate Sessions DVD, a compilation of ground-breaking footage from many of the best surf movies ever made, including Cosmic Children, Morning of the Earth, Free Ride and Jack Johnson's September Sessions.

A pair of sequences really stand out in Ultimate Sessions, the first involving Hawaiian Dane Kealoha at Supertubes in 1986, from Scott Dittrich's Amazing Surf Stories. Supertubes is a semi-secret spot with a location that's generally referred to as "somewhere in north Los Angeles County." Here's the truth: it's not in L.A. County, but rather in southern Ventura County. That's as much as needs to be given away; if you go looking for this spot and don't know when to look for it, chances are you'll never see it break.

The other session of particular interest involves Tom Curren and his first visit to Jeffrey's Bay in South Africa in 1992, from Sonny Miller's Searching for Curren. It's been widely reported that Curren's first waves at J-Bay were among the best ever ridden at the spot to that point in time, but I'm here to tell you that Shaun Tomson flat-out surfed the place better than Curren did around the same time, as documented by Bruce Brown in Endless Summer II.

For anyone who really appreciates great surf films, Ultimate Sessions is a must-have. Buy it now at SurfVideo.com.

Dustin Cuizon a WQS 'Bubble Boy'

As the year-long World Qualifying Series begins to wind down, Hawaii's Dustin Cuizon finds himself near the "bubble," where he could gain entry into the WCT's big show next year, or fall just short and face another year of slogging it out on the WQS.

Since breaking through this past spring with a win at the Body Glove Surfbout at Lower Trestles, Cuizon has had a solid year and made another final this afternoon at the Newport Beach Pro.

Cuizon currently sits 19th in the WQS (the highest rated 'QS surfer from Hawaii), with a four-star and two six-star qualifiers on tap to end the season in his home waters on the North Shore.

My bet? Dustin Cuizon will be the next young Hawaiian surfer to join the WCT in 2007.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Have you ever noticed that when Swami's in North San Diego County gets really, really big, it looks a lot like Bells Beach in Australia?

Here's proof positive in today's short video clip from YouTube.

Pipeline: Not Just Another Surf Spot

A few years back while in the midst of a heated race for the world title, Australian Mick Campbell was quoted as saying something about Pipeline along the lines of the spot being "just another left."

Not surprisingly, Campbell lost the world title that year at Pipeline to Kelly Slater, who knew from many years of experience that Pipeline is indeed not "just another left."

Mick Campbell will rejoin the WCT in 2007 and will have another shot at the Pipeline Masters, nearly always the most dramatic professional contest of the year and the subject of the new documentary film Pipeline Masters, by acclaimed filmmaker Stacy Peralta.

Peralta's two previous films, Dogtown and Z-Boys and Riding Giants, have been well-received in the mainstream film world...in fact Riding Giants was selected to open the Sundance Film Festival a couple of years back.

So if Pipeline Masters is anywhere near as good as Peralta's previous efforts, it's definitely going to be worth seeing. Watch the trailer now on the home page of SurfingTheMag.com.

Fred Patacchia - Lofty Expectations Fulfilled

Hawaiian homeboy Fred Patacchia is one of the many surfers in the past decade who turned pro early after a stellar amateur career, only to struggle with high expectations.

Largely invisible for some years, a lot of industry types were just about to give up on Patacchia when he finally broke through the WQS to earn WCT rookie of the year honors last year.

Freddy surfed well in the first round of the Quiksilver Pro France at Hossegor, and is increasingly comfortable with his hard-earned position in pro surfing's major leagues.

For some interesting reading on the life and times of Fred Patacchia, here's a link to an interview done by Chris Mauro at SurferMag.com.

Quiksilver Pro France Round One Now Completed

Round one is now in the books at the Quiksilver Pro France at Hossegor. Hawaiian Bruce Irons dominated in the pumping conditions, and both Kelly Slater and Andy Irons took care of business, advancing straight to round three.

Among the disappointments: Pancho Sullivan and Bobby Martinez, both of whom were trounced and are headed for the "losers" round.

Round two may take place on Sunday. Check out the Quiksilver Pro France contest web site for the latest details and live event coverage.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

This morning's video clip features some heavy beachbreak barrels from Hossegor, France, site of the Quiksilver Pro France this week.

Packed with action from what the director calls the best day of the 2005 summer season, watch the clip now at YouTube.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Yeah, even "Average Joe's" can find some fun ones in the warm, winter waters of Puerto Rico. Proof positive is available in today's featured video from YouTube.

A tip to would-be video directors: don't let pesky palm trees ruin your shots!!!

Greg Long at Dungeons: One of the Biggest Waves Ever?

There's quite a bit of talk right now about Greg Long catching a big, big bomb recently at Dungeons in South Africa. This was around the time of the Red Bull big wave event, although Long's wave wasn't actually during the contest.

At the time the wave was ridden, observers said that Long's wave is a shoo-in to win the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Award when it's presented next spring.

But I'm not so sure. Winter is yet to begin in the northern hemisphere and a lot of folks are saying that El Nino (that little bastard) will have a hand once again in this winter's weather. How big a hand remains to be seen, but suffice it to say that there's a lot of big wave surfing still to be done before anyone will decide on who's ridden the biggest wave of the year.

There are three good still images of Greg Long's South African monster, which looks like it jacked a lot when he finished the drop. Here's a link to the sequence.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Does the surf ever get good in South Carolina?

Yes.

Can you get tubed in South Carolina beachbreak?

You bet.

How do I know this?

I just watched this video from Folly Beach, South Carolina on YouTube.

Dane Reynolds to Pursue WQS in 2007

You heard it hear first: Ventura, California native and Quiksilver team rider Dane Reynolds will launch his pursuit of qualifying for the WCT in 2007 by surfing a full schedule of WQS events.

Along with Jamie O'Brien and Bruce Irons, Dane is one of the most creative, progressive surfers on the planet. Time will tell if Reynolds has the stuff to compete in the WCT's major league, as Irons has been less-than-spectacular with his WCT results during the past couple of years.

For more on Dane Reynolds, here are links to a couple of features at SurferMag.com and SurfingTheMag.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Sunny skies, full wetties and clean-up sets characterize El Porto in the wintertime.

This morning's clip features some good footage of the urban break, where L.A. surfers gather when the west and northwest swells start pumping.

Check it out now on YouTube.

Rusty 'Skunkworks' Promises Board-Building Progress

Perhaps never in the history of surfing are we in as dynamic an environment as we currently are when it comes to shaping and manufacturing surfboards.

Since the abrupt closure of Clark Foam 10 months ago, more ideas have been tossed about than during any period in the past 50 years.

Now, there's word out of San Diego County that Rusty Preisendorfer and his team are working on some super-secret, "sandwich" composite boards that may be available for custom orders by this winter.

Interested in learning more? Visit RustySurfboards.com, poke around a bit and see if you can find out more details.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

This morning Geoff Brack and his crew of "nortes" experience the sights, sounds and killer lefthanders of Nicaragua.

Watch the clip now at YouTube.

Carissa Moore: Taking On - And Taking Out - The Boys

Hawaii's Michelle Wie (many, many missed cuts in men's golf tournaments) can't compete with the guys, but Hawaii's Carissa Moore sure can.

Moore took on - and took out - the boys last month at the Rip Curl GromSearch, blowing up in excellent conditions at Kewalo Basin on Oahu's South Shore.

So who's going to make more history in female vs. male sports competition: Wie or Moore? My money's on 13 year-old Carissa Moore. Care to place a bet?

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Making the run to northern Baja is a rite of passage that every young surfer should have the chance to experience.

This morning's clip from Rock Box Films chronicles a cold morning session at Baja Malibu. The Beastie Boys provide the soundtrack. Watch it now at YouTube.

Business Trips Should Not (Always) Involve Surf Spots

This morning I'm on a flight to a place where the air is fresh and balmy, the water is warm and clear, and the forecast is for head-high waves this afternoon. I'll be staying just across the street from a good reef...and I will not be able to surf.

Business trips should not (always) involve surf spots!!!

Early Season Swell Greets the North Shore of Oahu

Oahu's North Shore re-awakened this past Friday after its annual summer slumber, and Hawaii Surf Session Report was there to capture the action at (among other spots) Gas Chambers and Leftovers.

The swell wasn't particularly big, but it was fairly clean and the boys were out in force to welcome the early-season action.

Watch Hawaii Surf Session Report #101 from the North Shore at Yahoo Podcasts.

Jesse Billauer: Life Does Indeed 'Roll On'

One of the most inspiring things I've seen recently was Jesse Billauer being towed into the Lower Trestles lineup on Saturday afternoon at the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley). Jesse participated in the Expression Session just before the final.

Jesse's story is fairly well-known in the surf world today (17 years old, an aspiring pro, thrown head first into a sandbar and fracturing a vertebra in his neck while severing his spinal cord), but watching his pure enjoyment of riding waves as a quadriplegic never gets old.

For more on Jesse Billauer and his Life Rolls On foundation, visit LifeRollsOn.org or JesseBillauer.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

Where is the Shark Park? I don't know, and maybe only a handful of surfers on the planet do know the spot's location.

But the rest of us do know this: it's big, it's cold, it's thick and it's scary.

Want proof? Here's three minutes of video from YouTube.

Australian Rookie Bede Durbidge Wins Boost Mobile Pro at Lower Trestles

Could a WCT rookie who only made it to the big leagues when Luke Egan retired last year really take down Andy Irons (three world championships) and Kelly Slater (seven world championships and soon to be eight) in the same day?

The surprising answer is yes, as Aussie Bede Durbidge won the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) at Lower Trestles this afternoon.

Slater did extend his ratings lead over both Taj Burrow and Andy Irons with his appearance in the finals.

Next up: the Quiksilver Pro France, beginning in just six short days at Hossegor. Pray for French surf!!!

Andy Irons Goes Down in Defeat at Boost Mobile Pro

Andy Irons has been defeated by Aussie Bede Durbidge in round four of the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley). In deteriorating conditions, Irons fell behind early and couldn't get the score he needed to overcome the upstart Australian.

Kelly Slater now has a golden opportunity to extend his WCT ratings lead. All Slater has to do now is keep winning.

Complete live coverage at BoostMobilePro.com.

Hurricane Lane to Skunk California - Again!

For the second time in two weeks, a hurricane of significant strength has moved its way up Mexico's Pacific Coast. Hurricane Lane has reached Category 3 strenth, but instead of following a north/northwest track, Lane will turn right toward the Mexico mainland and make landfall somewhere in the Mazatlan region.

So Cabo gets spared this time around, and SoCal surfers basically get skunked. In other words, no overhead hurricane swell for this year's "September Sessions."

Boost Mobile Pro Round Four on Now

Round four of the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) is live now at Lower Trestles. Fanning, Parko, Dingo and Slater have already advanced.

Andy Irons is in the water right now against upstart Aussie Bede Durbidge. AI is looking shaky as the water starts to get some bump on it.

Tune in for live action in today's final day at BoostMobilePro.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

This morning's video clip featues some aerial antics from Sebastian Inlet in Florida, including several "Tow Ats."

The accompanying music basically sucks, but the action is definitely worth taking a look at (after all, you don't always need your speakers). Watch it now at YouTube.

Kelly Slater and Eddie Vedder: Outside Magazine's Featured 'Buddies'

Just cracked open the October issue of Outside Magazine - the "Buddy Issue." Among the featured friends are Kelly Slater and Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, who discuss (among other things) surfing, music and travel in an interview.

In describing their friendship, the pair lays it on kind of thick, to the extent that at some point they may read the piece and actually be a little embarassed. Some selected quotes:

From Kelly Slater (in his typical fashion, on the friendship's development): "...we didn't become friends until we understood enough about ourselves and our lives for it to mesh really well."

From Eddie Vedder: "I relish every second we have together..."

Sheesh! But anyway, if you want to read the whole interview, pick up the current issue of Outside Magazine on newsstands now. And if you're interested on my take on Slater's chances of joining Pearl Jam onstage in Honolulu in December, read my previous post.

No Major Surprises During Round Three of Boost Mobile Pro

All of the favorites went about their business at the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) today, and round three was completed in fairly good conditions at Lower Trestles.

A couple of semi-upsets: San Clemente local Chris Ward taking down Taylor Knox, and Bobby Martinez falling to Brazilian vet Victor Ribas.

Among the more impressive performances was that of Mark Occhilupo. Now four decades old, Occy has reportedly been riding some new boards that have him turning back the clock. Occy took down Hawaiian Fred Patacchia and Taj Burrow awaits him next in round four.

On Saturday the contest must be completed, with four solid rounds of action. Log on to BoostMobilePro.com beginning at 8:00 a.m. Pacific time.

Boost Mobile Pro Round Three Today

Okay, so yesterday was (thankfully) a no-go, but there's new south swell in the water at Lower Trestles this morning, and even with overcast, coastal "eddy" conditions, round three will go off today.

Mick Fanning is up in the first heat starting right now, and on Saturday the contest will finish up with the quarters, semis and final.

The 2006 Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) is live now at BoostMobilePro.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

A rising south swell means that there may be some decent waves this weekend for the annual C Street Longboard Classic in Ventura.

Don't know what C Street is like? Then take a look at this clip of "The Lost Bunch" from last winter on YouTube.

PS - The waves at C Street this weekend will not be as good as they are in this video.

Surfline Launches 'Surfline Women'

Okay, so I'm a big enough man to admit it: the "girls in the curl" probably don't get nearly as much respect as they deserve for being the ocean athletes they are.

In response to this sentiment, Surfline has launched "Surfline Women," complete with news, surf tips, travel information, video clips, profiles, letters and the "WCT Contestzone."

Check it out now girls (and guys) at Surfline.com.

Boost Mobile Pro Round Three Today

Round three of the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) is scheduled to run today.

Another full day of action from Lower Trestles is coming up, with Kelly Slater, Andy Irons, Taj Burrow, Mick Fanning and the rest of the WCT cast.

Watch the event live now at BoostMobilePro.com.

YouTube: Where Average Joe's Can Go to Post Videos

This morning the Santa Cruz crew is featured in smooth, glassy conditions at Steamer Lane.

As summer turns to fall and the first northwest swell of the season is in the water, it's time for the Lane to begin to do its thing again.

What's it like when Steamer Lane starts to fire? Check out the clip and see for yourself at YouTube.

Kelly Slater, Sofia Mulanovich Win Surfer Poll

To absolutely nobody's surprise, Kelly Slater has once again won Surfer Magazine's Surfer Poll award for 2006. And although Sofia Mulanovich lost her world title to Chelsea Georgeson last year, Mulanovich still managed to win the magazine's coveted reader's poll award.

Complete coverage of the big night is available at this link. A video clip of Kelly Slater's acceptance speech is also available on the SurferMag.com home page.

Jamie O'Brien: Not Ready for the WCT

As reported in this blog last week, Jamie O'Brien is not particularly interested in contest surfing at this point in his career.

This is probably a good thing, as O'Brien was not-so-quietly shown the door by the resurgent WCT vet Taylor Knox at the Boost Mobile Pro (Presented by Hurley) this morning at Lower Trestles.

Round two was completed today in a dropping swell. It may continue to deteriorate tomorrow, but the contest must be completed by Saturday so it appears likely that we won't see Lowers at its best this year.

Tune in again tomorrow morning for the contest call at BoostMobilePro.com.