Cloudbreak is one of the best waves in the world, no question - with that being said, it will prove to be one of the hardest waves on tour this year. With it offering long barrels, and walls to perform some very effective power-surfing, I expect to see a ton of "excellent" scores. I do not see the young gun's such as Kolohe or Medina, who are more known for their aerial tactics rather than barrel-getting. It will certainly separate the men from the boys. I really did some studying when putting together my Fantasy Surfer roster for this event. Parko, leading the ASP Title race at the moment, is in the drivers seat and can really pull away from the rest of the pack. He has proved in the past at events in Tahiti, Fiji and Hawaii that this type of wave really suits his style of surfing. Kelly is finally returning and is looking like himself again after sustaining an injury to his foot. He is always a threat, especially in Fiji. A surfer who we have yet to see a big result out of this year is Julian Wilson; at the beginning of the season, many saw him as a World Title contender. Known for his moves above the lip, Julian is an underground charger. I have a feeling that we may see him finally getting the result that he needs. Owen Wilson will feel right at home in Fiji; last year we saw Owen and Kelly battle it out in Tahiti, another left reef break. He made a statement at that point that he can surf in this type of wave and excel.
My team has a few sleepers that I think will make it far in this event.
John John Florence: arguably the best surfers and barrel riders in the world. He grew up surfing these waves and will go far in this event. He showed us what he can do backside at Pipe and will most definitely do the same here in Fiji.
Michel Bourez: While this is not his home in Tahiti, Cloudbreak is a similar wave. His strong turns and barrel riding ability will get him a result in this event.
Kelly Slater: I do not really need to say anything about this pick, I am just glad he's back and healthy enough to compete.
Kieren Perrow: 2011 Pipe Masters Champion. An underdog and sleeper for me. Many underestimate his barrel riding and power surfing and I have a feeling that he will take out some big names in Fiji.
Josh Kerr: Three semi-final appearances in a row and currently number three in the world. We saw what he is capable of in waves like this in Tahiti last year. Very dangerous in waves and I am sure he will find some way to land airs here.
Matt Wilkinson: Fresh off a win at the 6-star prime in Brazil, Wilko made his way far into the Tahiti event last year. Another sleeper of mine, he has the potential to make it far in this event.
Jeremy Flores: This could be a last minute change for me, word just got out via Jeremy's Twitter that he is sick. Hopefully he is healthy enough to compete. He scored a 20 last year in a heat of his in Tahiti. His barrel surfing and power turns are some of the best. If healthy, he could make it into the later rounds.
Fred Patacchia: Taking Dusty's spot due to injury, Freddy's style of surfing will suit this wave. He is one of the strongest and most dangerous surfers on his forehand. He is fighting to make it back on tour full time and a result here will definitely help him out.
I like my team and their chances. I feel that all of them have a chance to take the title here. I can't wait for this event to get underway. Keep checking back after each day for updates on the contest.
Watch it online here: http://volcomfijipro.com/ and leave comments on my picks and who your picks are!
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