Amped fans were looking forward to the chance to see the world's best surfers on their doorstep recently, with the leading lights on the pro circuit set to rip the waves at the Billabong Pro J-Bay for 10 days, from 14 to 24 July.
Amped fans were looking forward to the chance to see the world's best surfers on their doorstep recently, with the leading lights on the pro circuit set to rip the waves at the Billabong Pro J-Bay for 10 days, from 14 to 24 July.
The surf, however, proceeded to be as flat as a lake. The competition dragged on regardless, but remained dull until the weekend approached and the offshore breeze started bolting its way in.
The barreling greatness the world knows as Supertubes finally awoke and unleashed its power.
The finals last Sunday pumped 3- to 4-foot surf and proved a worthy playground for the world’s best.
Local and Billabong Pro J-Bay 2010 winner, Jordy Smith, was up against one of the most experienced and successful surfers ever.
Australian, Mick Fanning, who took J-Bay title in 2002 and 2006, was absolutely on form throughout and put up a great performance on the final day. But he proved to not be too much of a distraction for the fresh and headstrong Smith.
The 23-year-old surfed like a champion throughout, his local knowledge allowing him to select the best waves. Spectators and supporters crowded the boardwalk in the stormy weather, to watch the new surfing phenomenon smashing consecutive lips with his effortless style.
Smith won the title for the second year running, launching him into second position on the ASP World Title ranking. Fanning is 4th.
Jeffrey’s Bay Supertubes is the fourth stop out of 11 on the 2011 ASP World Title circuit.
