http://www.hurley.com/?e/rss Hurley blogs en-us 2010 Hurley Thu, 02 Sep 2010 5 http://www.hurley.com/?e/rss http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/9462/headerzw7.gif 180 78 Hurley.com Costa Mesa, CA – August 30, 2010 – Hurley, the action sports and lifestyle apparel company, welcomes artist BIGFOOT to its )( Space gallery. BIGFOOT will team up with Hurley’s resident artist, Jason Maloney, to create a must-see art installation. Bay Area-based, nature-loving artist BIGFOOT has been a major influence in the skateboard industry for more than a decade. Despite his reclusive nature, Bigfoot has a very active presence in both the sports and art world, designing skateboard graphics and footwear. He has exhibited in galleries in the US and Japan, and in 2004 unveiled his first vinyl figure through Strangeco. His eponymous character and love of heavy metal – especially the masked rock group KISS – play a major role in his studio work, as well as his highly recognized street art. )( Space art gallery is located at Hurley’s headquarters -- 1945 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627. The gallery is open Monday–Friday, 10am–5pm. www.hurley.com/hspace. Music and food will be offered at this FREE exhibit. On the music end, DJ JOSHR will open for KISS tribute band Dressed to Kill. Food will be provided by the infamous Kogi Taco Truck and the heavy-metal-themed food truck Grill ‘Em All, currently in the final four of The Great Food Truck Race on the Food Network. The skate park will also be open during the exhibit, providing plenty of incentive for a crowd to come down to the )( Space Gallery. WHAT: “BIGFOOT: Ominous Compositions from the Magic Mountains” WHEN: Saturday, September 11, 2010, 6-10pm WHERE: Hurley’s )(SPACE Gallery, 1945 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 REQUEST: Live or phone interviews, HD video B-roll, high-resolution jpegs and tiffs. DOWNLOAD: Available by request. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42816 EvanFontaine Thursday, September 2, 2010 After four days, 10 free pairs of Hurley Jeans, 600 photos and 2,000 "I )( VB" hats, the ECSC is a wrap. And Hurley certainly left a sizable footprint at the event. As the most in-demand booth on the beach, lines for the Hurley Photo Booth averaged 35 minutes during the four-day stretch. The most sought after commodity at the ECSC? The I )( VB hats. Marines, lifeguards, cops, Budweiser reps, contest organizers, surf fans, crazed teens and tweens, moms, grandmas, hotel workers -- anyone and everyone wanted one of those signature pieces of headwear. We could have easily run through 4,000. If you were lucky enough to get your photo snapped before our hat, sticker and sunglasses reserves ran dry (or you're envious of those who did), check out all the Day 4 highlights here, or go to Facebook to view the full gallery. See you next year. We )( VB. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42812 EvanFontaine Monday, August 30, 2010 Hurricane Danielle delivered in a big way on Saturday. Though never really a threat to make landfall, she generated good size surf on Saturday, as two-to-three foot, peaky lefts and rights pulsed through all day. Hurley team riders Oliver Kurtz and local favorite Michael Dunphy shined in the Men's Pro division, advancing to the Semifinal on Sunday. Dunphy will surf in the Men's Pro Junior Final on Sunday afternoon as well. North Carolinian, Kim Diggs, will also surf on Sunday, in the Women's Amateur Final. On the sand, the Hurley Photo Booth created the biggest buzz. With Saturday the biggest day of the event, lines were longer and giveaways were bigger. We moved 720 "I )( VB" hats (by far the hit of the contest), took almost 200 photos and we handed out over 200 Hurley sunglasses to people who became a fan of Hurley on Facebook via our iPad station. The highlight of the day was the impromptu product toss from the scaffolding into a crowd of 200 crazed kids. Check out all the Day 3 highlights here, or go to Facebook for the full Hurley ECSC Photo Booth gallery. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42759 EvanFontaine Sunday, August 29, 2010 This is actually a surf contest. But from where we sit, the main draw of the East Coast Surfing Championships has nothing to do with what's happening in the water. It's clearly about the beach, and all that free stuff. Today, Bob Burnquist skated vert, there were tow-at and freestyle moto exhibitions, plus LIVE music. We did't catch any of it. We were busy pushing hats and slangin' sunglasses. The Hurley booth, far and away the most popular at the event, gave away more than 600 "I )( VB" hats, as Hurley fans waited in line, in the sticky 80 degree weather no less, for more than 35-minutes to receive a hat and take a photo with Hurley Family members Noah Snyder, Asher Nolan, Michael Dunphy, Oliver Kurtz, Kim Diggs, Mikey Detemple and Bob Burnquist (quite the pleasant surprise). Plus, while fans waited for their pictures to print, we took advantage of the opportunity and had them "become a fan" of Hurley on Facebook (iPads are so rad) in exchange for a pair of Hurley sunglasses. Now, for your viewing pleasure, the highlights from Day 2 at the ECSC. Head over to Hurley's Facebook page for all the day's images (all 196 of 'em). http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42663 EvanFontaine Friday, August 27, 2010 That's VB. You'll hear those two words a lot here -- as an explanation, or rationalization, really, for some of the things you'll see in this place. Virginia Beach, quite simply, is pure madness. And VA Beach doesn't get any wilder than during the East Coast Surfing Championships. The festivities kicked off today, as teen mobs descended the contest venue, and by 11am there was a 20-minute wait outside the Hurley photo booth, where Hurley fans posed with team riders in "I )( VB" hats. Some of the numbers from the day: 109 photos, 50-minute lines and over 400 hats were distributed to Hurley fans eager to get a chance to win a pair of new Hurley jeans. Check out the Top 10 fan photos in the attached gallery. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42644 EvanFontaine Thursday, August 26, 2010 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. – The Ecology Center, in partnership with Hurley, will open “Splash! How Good Water Works,” a free interactive exhibition launching Saturday, August 28 to bring attention to the more than 1,800 gallons of water the average Southern Californian uses each day. The attraction will be open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. until August 2011, and will be held at The Ecology Center, located at 32701 Alipaz St. in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. Visitors will be greeted by a 13-foot-tall “Juggernaut monster,” a sculpture made of 365 five-gallon water bottles, standing in front of the entrance to emphasize our average daily water usage. “Splash!” will also feature interactive, family-friendly exhibits throughout The Ecology Center’s campus, demonstrating how water relates to everything we do – the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the lifestyle we live. The exhibition highlights ten solutions to reduce our water footprint, including reusable water bottles and buying local and seasonal foods, among other daily behavior changes. “The world’s poorest survive on less than five gallons of water a day, and yet we continue to feed the Juggernaut monster,” said Evan Marks, executive director of The Ecology Center. “A daily water footprint of 950 gallons is a sustainable global standard. I’m confident that we can win this war on water scarcity, and The Ecology Center is committed to providing our community with solutions to decrease our water footprint.” “Splash! How Good Water Works” represents the first collaborative project between The Ecology Center and Hurley’s H20 initiative. About The Ecology Center The Ecology Center is an exciting new educational center, whose purpose is to engage the entire family in fun, hands-on activities that teach practical, environmental solutions at the household and community level. The Ecology Center is located at 32701 Alipaz St. in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. For more information, please visit www.theecologycenter.org or (949) 443-4223. About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42629 Evan Slater Thursday, August 26, 2010   Rob Machado premiered his latest project, Melali: The Drifter Sessions, at La Paloma in Encinitas on Thursday night. Needless to say, it was to a packed house. This wasn't your average surf premiere at the iconic North County theatre, as Rob, John Swift, Todd Hannigan and band provided a live soundtrack to the film as it played. Also, in an effort to ensure every seat was filled for the 7:30 and 9:00 o'clock shows, the first hundred people through the door received autographed posters from Rob. Check out a few photos from the evening below: http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42444 EvanFontaine Friday, August 13, 2010 The 2nd annual Converse Coastal Carnage Finals and Best Trick competition was completed on Sunday, August 8th and a total of $75,000 in cash was awarded to the top competitors. Check out the results below and more photos from Sunday's action by clicking on the photos button. Finals: 1. Ben Hatchell - 93.67 - $15,000 2. Tom Remillard - 82.67 - $12,000 3. Kevin Kowalski - 82.00 - $8,000 4. Ben Raybourne - 79.67 - $7,000 5. Tyler Mumma - 76.67 - $5,000 6. Aaron Homoki - 76.00 - $4,000 7. David Loy - 75.33 - $2,500 8. Ryan Reyes - 74.67 - $2,000 9. Omar Hassan - 73.33 - $1,500 10. Rune Glifberg - 70.00 - $1,200 11. Brandon Perelson - 66.67 - $1,100 12. Andrew Langi - 59.67 - $1,000 13. Lance Mountain - 57.00 - $1,000 14. Christian Hosoi - 53.67 - $1,000 15. Steve Caballero - 52.67 - $1,000 BEST TRICK: 1. Aaron Homoki - kickflip bs stalefish - $2,000 2. Kevin Kowalski - saran wrap tail block - $1,500 3. Tom Remillard - smith grind to fakie - $1,200 4. Neal Mims - smith grind to revert - $1,000 5. Curren Caples - frontside flip into cradle - $1,000 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42428 Evan Slater Monday, August 9, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California (Sunday, August 8, 2010) – Local favorite Brett Simpson (Huntington Beach, CA), 25, defeated current Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World No. 1 Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22, to clinch his second consecutive title in front of his home crowd at the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 to clinch the highly sought after $100,000 check at South Huntington Beach Pier in two-to-four foot (1 metre) surf. Evan Geiselman (New Smyrna Beach, FL), 17, also put in an impressive performance to clinch the ASP Grade-2 US Open of Surfing Pro Junior to solidify the title of 2010 ASP North America Pro Junior Series Champion. Surfers competing in the US Open of Surfing are out to clinch the crucial ratings points on offer towards their ASP World Ranking while ASP Pro Junior surfers look to finish atop their regional ratings to qualify for the inaugural ASP World Junior Tour. Simpson, who marched to a dream victory in front of his home crowd last year, surfed consistently throughout the event’s entirety to charge to a nearly unimaginable repeat performance to take his second consecutive US Open of Surfing title and mass of ratings points on offer towards his ASP World Ranking. “Last year barely sank in and now I won this year,” Simpson said. “It’s so hard to mentally imagine it all over again because you have to stay consistent and surf so many heats. Luckily I zoned everything out and tried not to worry about the points or the money and that’s when I have competed the best. To be at home with so many friends and family, I’ve enjoyed it so much. To win out here two years in a row is unimaginable. ” Simpson, who is currently competing on his rookie year on the ASP Dream Tour, jumped out to a quick start in his matchup against the South African juggernaut in the Final and built momentum throughout the heat, leaving Smith looking for a near-perfect score in the final moments of the ASP Dream Tour campaigner’s bout. “Jordy (Smith) has been getting quick starts, so I tried to go out there and get a decent start,” Simpson said. “I got a five, and it was a low scoring heat, but all the waves I caught I maximized. Jordy had that one wave, where if he pulled that air it could have been a different ballgame. That’s the risk you take to be rewarded and with the level these days, that’s where it’s at. I kind of stayed conservative and built my scores, but either way, a win is a win.” Simpson, who defeated reigning two-time ASP World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS), 29, to win his 2009 US Open of Surfing title, rose to the challenge once again this year, topping a marquee list of surfers including nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater (Cocoa Beach ,FL), 38, former ASP World Tour surfer Nathaniel Curran (Oxnard, CA), 26, ASP Dream Tour rookie Adam Melling (AUS), 25, and Australian standout Julian Wilson (AUS), 22, before defeating Smith in the Final. “It’s amazing to beat those guys,” Simpson said. “I guess this is my best chance to compete against those guys and I know the wave really well and I just go out there and stay confident. I know which waves score the best and that’s all you can do against those guys.” Smith, who posted the highest scores of the day in the Quarterfinals, ousted dangerous ASP Pro Junior surfer Miguel Pupo (BRA), 18, in the Quarterfinals and reigning two-time ASP World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS), 29, in the Semifinals, but was unable to find a rhythm against Simpson and placed second overall. “It wasn’t exactly J-Bay, it’s Huntington, it’s never going to be perfect,” Smith said. “You’ve got to kind of adapt to everything and Brett (Simpson) did that the best. It’s a big event and Brett has done it again, congratulations to him.” Smith has been on an absolute tear throughout the 2010 ASP season and has been a consistent finalist in several events. Although Smith was hungry to clinch the US Open of Surfing title, he was pleased with the result and the ASP PRIME points. “It’s still a good result,” Smith said. “We’ll see how the year goes from here. I don’t want to count my chickens before they hatch. I am having a pretty good year. I’m just relaxing and feeling confident.” Evan Geiselman, who put in an amazing performance in the men’s ASP PRIME event via his wildcard entry, stormed to victory at the ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior over a tough list of talent including Alejo Muniz (BRA), 20, Kolohe Andino (San Clemente, CA), 16, and Miguel Pupo (BRA), 18. “I just had fun this whole week,” Geiselman said. “I took it serious, but just had fun and did what I wanted to do. I didn’t let anything get in my heat and just surfed.” The young Floridian’s US Open Pro Junior victory also saw Geiselman follow in his older brother Eric’s footsteps by clinching the family’s second ASP North America Pro Junior Series Title. “I think I’ve just been rolling off of this whole year with confidence,” Geiselman said. “This year has been crazy for me and I can’t believe it. To win the ASP North America Pro Junior Title is amazing and I’m just looking forward to going to Bali. That was my main goal this year, so this is awesome. I don’t even know what to say.” Day nine of the US Open also saw the finals of Converse Coastal Carnage and the Nike 6.0 BMX Pro. For full highlights and coverage of the 2010 US Open of Surfing go to usopenofsurfing.com. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org.   US Open of Surfing Men’s Final Results:1 – Brett Simpson (USA) 13.97 ? 2 – Jordy Smith (ZAF) 8.33 US Open of Surfing Men’s Semifinals Results: Heat 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 13.00 def. Mick Fanning (AUS) 12.80? Heat 2: Brett Simpson (USA) 13.37 def. Kelly Slater (USA) 13.33 US Open of Surfing Men’s Quarterfinals Results: Heat 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 17.66 def. Miguel Pupo (BRA) 16.10Heat 2: Mick Fanning (AUS) 16.26 def. Jadson Andre (BRA) 16.07Heat 3: Kelly Slater (USA) 13.94 def. Granger Larsen (HAW) 7.43Heat 4: Brett Simpson (USA) 10.14 def. Nathaniel Curran (USA) 9.74 US Open Pro Junior Men’s Final: 1 – Evan Geiselman (USA) 12.57? 2 – Alejo Muniz (BRA) 12.54? 3 – Kolohe Andino (USA) 8.23? 4 – Miguel Pupo (BRA) 7.67   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic ÏMicrophone for YouthÓ brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as ÏAmerica’s Original Sports CompanyÓÙ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor? All Star? shoe, the Jack Purcell? shoe and the One Star? shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42377 Evan Slater Sunday, August 8, 2010 The Men open today’s action with Quarterfinal and Semifinal heats in two-to-four foot conditions. Spectators were treated to a proper opening heat as Jordy Smith and Miguel Pupo traded huge scores, with Smith edging out the Brazilian youngster on his final wave. Other Quarterfinal heats feature Mick Fanning, Kelly Slater and Brett Simpson. Top seeds and past champs face off for the $100,000 first-place prize. The Noseriding Invitational, Men’s Pro Junior Finals, WPS All-Star Expression Session will follow the Men’s PRIME Semifinals. The Men’s Final begins at 11:30 AM. Make your way down to the beach or tune in LIVE at usopenofsurfing.com to see who will be crowned 2010 US Open Champion. Converse Coastal Carnage and the Nike 6.0 BMX Pro will also crown champions later this afternoon. BMX finals start at 1:00 PM, Skate finals at 3:00 PM. Check back later tonight for all photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams, photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42327 Evan Slater Sunday, August 8, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Saturday, August 7, 2010) – Carissa Moore (Honolulu, HI), 17, won the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) 6-Star Women’s US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 in a wave-starved heat over Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), 19, at South Huntington Beach Pier to take out $50,000, the richest first place prize purse in women’s surfing history. Sage Erickson (Ventura, CA), 19, also donated a standout performance today when she claimed the ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior in a stacked Final. Quarterfinalists were also decided in Men’s ASP Prime event while Finalists were determined for the Men’s ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior. Surfers competing in the US Open of Surfing are out to capitalize on the crucial ratings points on offer to either maintain their position on, or qualify for the ASP Dream Tour while surfers on the ASP North America Pro Junior Series are out to finish atop their regional ratings to qualify for the inaugural ASP World Junior Tour. Moore, who is currently competing in her rookie year on the ASP Women’s Dream Tour, started off with two small scores to start the heat, and locked into a lefthander in the dying seconds of the heat to capitalize on her priority to clinch the 2010 Women’s US Open of Surfing title. “I was pretty nervous because I only had two 4 point scores,” Moore said. “Sally (Fitzgibbons) is gnarly and is a great competitor and I knew when that last set came, if I didn’t get on it Sally would have gotten the score easily. I’m just so on top of the world right now, I’m so psyched.” The tough victory earned by Moore also saw the young Hawaiian take out the richest prize purse in women’s surfing history and the talented natural-footer was beyond belief with her accomplishment. “It is really amazing to win this event,” Moore said. “I just can’t even believe it right now. It just seems really surreal. That Final went by so fast and I wish I could have done some more surfing, but I’m just really stoked.” Fitzgibbons, who smashed the highest scores of women’s competition throughout the event’s entirety, struggled to get a start in the Final and finished runner-up. “It was a really tough Final and there wasn’t much opportunity to open up,” Fitzgibbons said. “I had a really good time here at the US Open and second place is awesome so I’ll just take it and move on to the next event.” Fitzgibbons, who has been the runner-up in the last three ASP Women’s World Tour events, was disappointed with the loss, but feels she is close to locking down a major victory in the near future. “My time is obviously around the corner,” Fitzgibbons said. “I wanted to win that one, but there are more events and it’s great that Nike put up the extra money. It really added to the excitement and hopefully next time I catch a few more waves.” Erickson, who was the runner-up in last year’s Women’s US Open Pro Junior, jumped out to an early lead in the stacked heat and led the field throughout its entirety to clinch her first ASP victory over last year’s winner Malia Manuel (Kauai, HI), 16, ASP Women’s World Tour campaigner Coco Ho (North Shore, HI), 19, and reigning ASP Women’s World Junior Champion Laura Enever (AUS), 18. “I came in second last year with Malia (Manuel) getting the score in the last couple of seconds,” Erickson said. “It was hard. I’m just glad to come out this year and win a Junior with such a prestigious Final. This is pretty much my best win because it’s the US Open. It feels great to win in front of all of these people.” Brett Simpson (Huntington Beach, CA), 25, who is the defending US Open of Surfing champion, tore through the Round of 16 today while unleashing the day’s top scores. The local standout blasted a 9.37 out of 10 with an impressive backside air and followed with a series of impressive turns before snatching a 17.17 heat total, the day’s highest, to eliminate current ASP Dream Tour No. 4 Dane Reynolds to advance to the Quarterfinals. “I think that in the beginning we were both going for big maneuvers,” Simpson said. “I fell on a good wave and he tried a big air and I think I had to shake the jitters out. I know that Dane (Reynolds) is going to go for big maneuvers, he never surfs safe and I was trying to match it. I got the good air and was in rhythm with the waves and I think that’s half of the battle. I’m stoked to be in the Quarters.” Simpson will compete against 2008 US Open of Surfing Champion Nathaniel Curran (Oxnard, CA), 26, in Quarterfinal Heat 4. Granger Larsen (Lahaina, HI), 20, issued the upset of the day in the men’s ASP PRIME main event when the young Hawaiian eliminated current ASP World Title event No. 5 Adriano de Souza (BRA), 23, with a last minute exchange to advance to the Quarterfinals. “I knew going into that heat it was going to be hard,” Larsen said. “They had to restart the heat because no waves came. That actually made me relax a little bit. Then that first set came and I got the better of the exchange. I felt good and had a feeling that I could beat him. I had priority at the end and knew I only needed a small score. That perfect left came and I got the score, I’m stoked.” Larsen will tackle nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater (Cocoa Beach, FL), 38, in Quarterfinal Heat 3. Men’s US Open of Surfing Pro Junior Finalists were also decided today, with current ASP North America Pro Junior Series ratings leader Evan Geiselman (New Smyrna Beach, FL), 17, Kolohe Andino (San Clemente, CA), 16, and Brazilians Alejo Muniz (BRA), 20, and Miguel Pupo (BRA), 20, earning the right to battle for this year’s US Open Pro Junior title tomorrow. Saturday also saw record crowds and all sorts of action at the HB Pier. The Converse Coastal Carnage Skate contest got started, the BMX event kept on rolling and there was a live concert courtesy of Hot Hot Heat and Weezer. Both bands played in front of a packed crowd estimated at more than 50,000 at the music stage. Check back for video highlights and photos from all the day’s events. Tune in to the LIVE webcast tomorrow for Surf, Skate, BMX events, or come down and check out the US Open of Surfing at the HB Pier. For more on the US Open of Surfing go to usopenofsurfing.comfor LIVE webcasts, heats on demand and full event schedule. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org. US Open of Surfing Women’s Final: 1 – Carissa Moore (HAW) 12.50? 2 – Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 3.83 US Open of Surfing Women’s Semifinals: Heat 1: Carissa Moore (USA) 13.27 def. Lakey Peterson (USA) 6.27? Heat 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 13.33 def. Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 10.70 US Open of Surfing Pro Junior Women’s Final: 1 – Sage Erickson (USA) 10.20? 2 – Malia Manuel (HAW) 6.56? 3 - Coco Ho (HAW) 7.00? 4 – Laura Enever (AUS) 6.67 US Open of Surfing Men’s Round of 16 Results: Heat 1: Jordy Smith (ZAF) 11.17 def. Gabriel Medina (BRA) 7.24? Heat 2: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 14.33 def. Bede Durbidge (AUS) 13.00? Heat 3: Jadson Andre (BRA) 9.50 def. Nic Muscroft (AUS) 8.00Heat 4: Mick Fanning (AUS) 14.93 def. Cory Lopez (USA) 13.93? Heat 5: Granger Larsen (HAW) 14.10 def. Adriano de Souza (BRA) 13.00? Heat 6: Kelly Slater (USA) 14.77 def. Adrian Buchan (AUS) 11.44? Heat 7: Nathaniel Curran (USA) 16.27 def. Patrick Guduaskas (USA) 10.73 Heat 8: Brett Simpson (USA) 17.14 def. Dane Reynolds (USA) 7.23   PICK SIX: SUNDAY What to watch for on day nine of the US Open of Surfing Mens US Open of Surfing Champion will be decided as top seeds and juniors continue to advance. Also, the Pacifico Noseriding Invitational and All-Star Surfing Expression Session will be highlighting the day. You do not want to miss any of it. Here’s some standout heats and events to watch for. 1. Mens Prime – Quarterfinal 1 – 8:00 AM Jordy Smith (ZAF) Miguel Pupo (BRA) The Brazilian Junior has been on fire this entire event, blazing through Mens Prime and Mens Pro Junior heats. Pupo looks to take down another high seed in the event as he squares off against current WT leader, Jordy Smith. Winner will advance to the Semis which take place at 9:45 AM. 2. Mens Prime – Quarterfinal 4 Nathaniel Curran (USA) Brett Simpson USA) The Battle of Champions – 2009 US Open Champ, Brett Simpson, takes on 2008 US Open Champ, Nathaniel Curran. Brett hopes to use the hometown support to make the Semifinals and keep his hopes at a repeat title alive. 3. Mens Pro Junior Finals Evan Geiselman (USA) Kolohe Andino (USA) Alejo Muniz (BRA) Miguel Pupo (BRA) The USA – Brazilian showdown features the world’s best up-and-coming-surfers in the Mens Pro Junior Finals. All four have been standouts of both the Juniors and ASP Prime events. The Final hits the water at 11:00 AM. 4. Surfing All-Stars Expression Session – 11:30 PM You voted them here. Now you can watch the show at the HB Pier as the top surfers in the world showcase their stuff via jet ski assist. Expect to see some high-flying shenanigans. 5. THE MENS ASP PRIME FINALS – 12:00 PM The winner will take home the $100,000 first-place prize and ultimate bragging rights, as the US Open of Surfing wraps up. 6. Skate and BMX finals Tune in to the LIVE webcast to check out all the high-flying action as top riders and skaters battle for the titles of BMX and Skate. Converse Coastal Carnage finals will be at 3:00 PM, and the Nike 6.0 BMX Pro finals will be at 1:00 PM.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic ÏMicrophone for YouthÓ brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as ÏAmerica’s Original Sports CompanyÓÙ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor? All Star? shoe, the Jack Purcell? shoe and the One Star? shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42250 Evan Slater Saturday, August 7, 2010 The Men opened today's competition with Round of 16 action in inconsistent three-to-five foot surf and glassy conditions. Kelly Slater, Jordy Smith, Jadson Andre and MIck Fanning advanced with relative ease, while Bede Durbidge and Adriano de Souza were both upset this morning by an in-form Miguel Pupo and Granger Larsen, respectively. Following the Men's Round of 16 are the Pacific Noseriding Semis, the Women's Semis, the Junior Men Semis and the Junior Women's and Women's Finals. Don't miss today's highly anticipated Second Annual WPS All-Stars Expression Session at 1:00 PM PST. Converse Coastal Carnage opens today with Qualifiers at 2:00 PM PST and the Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro continues with Qualifier 3 at noon. The concert schedule comes to a close today as Hot Hot Heat opens for festival headliner, Weezer at 4:30 PM PST. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams, photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42177 Evan Slater Saturday, August 7, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, FRIDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 6th BRIEF OVERVIEW: A new southwest swell moves in and tops out for the weekend with fun-size surf. Mornings will offer the best conditions with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. SATURDAY 7th SWELL/SURF: A new SW swell fills in further and tops out with mainly 3-4' surf (largest sets pushing up to shoulder-head high, but inconsistent). WIND: Calm to light/variable wind early and overcast skies. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/W seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon around 8-12kts with clearing/sunny skies. SUNDAY 8th SWELL/SURF: Holding SW swell continues to provide mainly 3-4' surf (largest sets pushing up to shoulder-head high, but inconsistent). Surf is a little more consistent overall as the swell shifts a bit more to the SSW direction. WIND: Calm to light/variable wind early and overcast skies. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/W seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon around 8-12kts with clearing/sunny skies. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK For the final days of the contest (Sat-Sun), a new SW groundswell will build in from a storm that was near New Zealand over a week ago. We will see this new SW energy rise up over Friday and top out/hold for the weekend. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we're expecting very inconsistent surf on Friday and Saturday. As the swell turns a bit more to the SSW for Sunday, expect consistency to improve a notch. For the weekend; look for surf to generally hang in the 3-4' range with the largest sets pushing up to shoulder-head high. Due to the shadowing of the offshore islands, expect the surf to be a little inconsistent, especially on the larger sets and on Saturday. Incoming tide push in the early mornings for Sat/Sun, as well as the afternoons will improve the surf some. Whereas the mid-late mornings and late afternoons will be slow with the higher tide. Our wind/weather outlook remains similar to the past couple days: early mornings will see calm to light/variable wind with a little morning sickness possible and overcast skies, but overall fairly clean/smooth. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/West seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon with clearing/sunny skies. Afternoon surface conditions will see a light texture/bump due to the onshore flow. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42171 Evan Slater Saturday, August 7, 2010   That is, whatever position my brother finishes in any contest, I will be conveniently placed a few positions below him.  Although, there are a few exceptions to this contemporary equation.  Empirical evidence has shown that I can exceed my brothers competitive drive in certain circumstances.  These certain circumstances only happen when:  A. he looses his temper like Perez Hilton does after he gets bludgeoned in the side of the head with a George Foreman Grill by one of the Black Eyed Peas lead singers—or— B. he absolutely does not catch any waves in the heat.  I think those are the only two outliers in Mikes zealous heat strategy that cause him to lose while surfing against his younger brother.  The equation above was exercised two weekends ago at the Reef/Sweetwater Pro-am where little Mike actually won the whole event.  Needless to say, my ingenious formula was correct once again.  This time I placed equal 25th, 24 positions behind my brother.  I am not vengeful of this because I collected a few dollars for my performance and also because he has been surfing like a crazed vandal from the south for the past year and deserves some recognition.  With that being said, I am actually quite thrilled he won.   Aside from all the credit Mike is getting, I am also reaping benefits of his win; living vicariously through the champ.  One would get a better understanding after the following explanation:  Michael and I are brothers and have been brothers since day one(whatever that means).  Michael Powell won one of the biggest surfing contests on the east coast.  Therefore, by the transitive property of "brothers", Ben Powell won the Reef/Sweetwater Pro-am as well. That last portion is actually bull-s#&t, BUT, a generous majority of Wrightsville Beach has come up to me, mistaking me for my brother, and has expressed their feelings on how excited they were for me.  Obviously, I need to write in permanent marker on my forehead "I didn't win, call my brother and give him your regards: 910-233-5543". In any case, all gayness aside, I am really excited for him and my mind was blown when he won the tournament.  I will make a valiant effort to vanquish him in the next event so that I don't have to write anything stupid on my forehead again. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42114 Ben Powell Friday, August 6, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Friday, August 6, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 narrowed the impressive field originally slated in the premier event down to 16 competitors in peaky one-to-three foot (1 metre) surf at South Huntington Beach Pier with ASP Dream Tour rookie Jadson Andre (BRA), 20, leading the way. The women’s ASP 6-Star US Open of Surfing and men’s ASP Pro Junior decided each respective division’s Semifinalists. Surfers competing in the ASP PRIME and ASP 6-Star event are out to garner the crucial ratings points on offer towards qualification for the elite ASP Dream Tour while ASP Pro Junior competitors are looking to qualify for the inaugural ASP World Junior Tour. Andre, who was a standout in yesterday’s action, returned to form again to ignite the day’s highest scores. The high-flying Brazilian continued to take to the air to earn a 9.0 out of 10, the highest single-wave score, before accumulating the highest heat-total, an impressive 16.53 out of 20. “There aren’t too many waves coming through but when you get the right wave you can still get good scores,” Andre said. “You can still do one or two big maneuvers and get a big score.” With only 16 surfers remaining, Andre is now one step closer to the impressive $100,000 prize purse for first place, but is remaining focused on each heat rather than the distraction of the increased money on offer. “I really don’t want to think about the money,” Andre said. “I really just want to try and make the heats. I just want to try and do my best and not worry about the money.” Brett Simpson (Huntington Beach, CA), 25, who is the defending US Open of Surfing Champion, marched to an impressive heat victory over fellow ASP Dream Tour rookies Patrick Gudauskas (San Clemente, CA), 24, who advanced in second, and Adam Melling (AUS), 25, to keep his chances of a repeat victory alive. “The waves were definitely slower although the swell is coming up,” Simpson said. “It’s still a little inconsistent. Everyone is doing such high-performance maneuvers and you can tell that the judges are really excited on that. If you can do one big turn or a blast or air, you’re going to get rewarded. That’s what these waves offer.” The local talent is additionally motivated to put on a show at his home break in front of his friends and family and is settling into his comfort zone despite the added pressure of being the defending event champion. “The motivation to surf in front of my home crowd is what gets me up early every morning,” Simpson said. “We get to compete in front of this kind of atmosphere only a few times, so you want to take your advantages. For me, it’s my home-break, so I want to do my best. There was more pressure this year than last year, being the champion, but more just pressure I put on myself, because you don’t want to be the first round clown after you won last year. I’ve pushed those pressures aside and I’m just trying to have fun and surf my best.” Kelly Slater (Cocoa Beach, FL), 38, former nine-time ASP World Champion, has quietly navigated through his opening heats and the competitive mastermind’s poise in today’s inconsistent conditions saw the iconic Floridian take out another heat victory to advance through to the Round of 16. “When the waves come they’re okay,” Slater said. “The way the size is, it tends to break out the back more and there is a little bit of a reform. It’s tough because you just have to be patient. I was planning on being patient because there were two or three waves in a set and I figured even if those guys had my inside position I could get a wave still.” Slater, who is no stranger to man-on-man competition, is looking forward to adapting his heat strategy for the Round of 16, where the format changes from the three-man heats of the Round of 24, to two-man heats. “It allows you to change your strategy,” Slater said. “We have longer heats and priority so you don’t have to worry about two or three other guys hassling you for a wave. If you get behind in a heat the other guys can’t hassle you and keep you off of waves. It’s kind of refreshing to get back to the man-on-man stuff.” Jacqueline Silva (BRA), 31, who is a former ASP Women’s Dream Tour competitor, unleashed the highest scores of Women’s US Open of Surfing Quarterfinals competition of a 15.10 out of 20 heat total and after two runner-up finishes at previous US Open events, the Brazilain veteran has her eye on this year’s historic $50,000 first place prize purse. “It’s the best feeling because I’ve been training a lot and now I can see the results,” Silva said. “I’ve been in the Final twice and I hope I can win. I’ve been coming here for 10 years and I really like this wave. I came here to win. There’s big points and big money, so I’m going for it.” Concluding today’s action was the men’s US Open Pro Junior, which decided the event’s Semifinalists. Tomorrow’s US Open of Surfing Action will begin with the men’s Round of 16, and will crown the ASP 6-Star Women’s US Open of Surfing Champion as well as the Women’s ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior Champion. Also surfing tomorrow will be the men’s ASP Grade-2 US Open Pro Junior. Friday also saw record-breaking crowds on the beach for the BMX contest, the Hurley Walk the Walk National Championship and the live concert courtesy of Cobra Starship and Street Drum Corps. Tune in to the LIVE webcast tomorrow for Surf, Skate, BMX events, or come down and check out the US Open of Surfing at the HB Pier. For more on the US Open of Surfing go to usopenofsurfing.comfor LIVE webcasts, heats on demand and full event schedule. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org. US Open of Surfing Men’s Round of 24 Results: Heat 1: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 15.50, Bede Durbidge (AUS) 9.77, Ola Eleogram (HAW) 7.17 Heat 2: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 15.00, Jordy Smith (ZAF) 14.03, Kiron Jabour (HAW) 11.00 Heat 3: Jadson Andre (BRA) 16.53, Mick Fanning (AUS) 13.00, Kekoa Bacalso (HAW) 8.93 Heat 4: Cory Lopez (USA) 12.04, Nic Muscroft (AUS) 9.03, Evan Geiselman (USA) 8.54 Heat 5: Granger Larsen (HAW) 14.26, Adrian Buchan (AUS) 12.00, Jay Thompson (AUS) 6.67 Heat 6: Kelly Slater (USA) 13.84, Adriano de Souza (BRA) 12.50, Heitor Alves (BRA) 6.07 Heat 7: Nathaniel Curran (USA) 12.70, Dane Reynolds (USA) 11.13, Owen Wright (AUS) 9.17 Heat 8: Brett Simpson (USA) 15.00, Patrick Gudauskas (USA) 13.00, Adam Melling (AUS) 12.93 US Open of Surfing Women’s Quarterfinals Results: QF 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) 13.67 def. Laura Enever (AUS) 8.16 QF 2: Lakey Peterson (USA) 10.77 def. Tyler Wright (AUS) 10.50QF 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 11.50 def. Sarah Baum (ZAF) 6.30 QF 4: Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 15.10 def. Justine Dupont (FRA) 10.27 US Open of Surfing Pro Junior men’s Quarterfinals Results: QF 1: Kolohe Andino (USA) 16.00, Ian Crane (USA) 15.23, John Florence (HAW) 13.60, Nat Young (USA) 13.36 QF 2: Evan Geiselman (USA) 10.33, Cooper Chapman (AUS) 6.94, Kiron Jabour (HAW) 5.93, Andrew Doheny (USA) 4.37 QF 3: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 14.66, Granger Larsen (HAW) 14.04, Evan Thompson (USA) 12.93, Chase Wilson (USA) 11.16 QF 4: Alejo Muniz (BRA) 8.70, Jacob Halstead (USA) 5.70, Luke Davis (USA) 3.27, Fisher Heverly (USA) 1.93   PICK SIX: FRIDAY What to watch for on day eight of the US Open of Surfing Men’s Quarterfinals will be decided, and the Women’s Champion will be crowned. Also, the Women’s Pro Junior finals will be taking place along with the Men’s Pro Junior Semifinals. And wait, there’s more – the Pacifico Noseriding Invitational and All-Star Surfing Expression Session will also be highlights of the day. You do not want to miss any of it. Here’s some standout heats and events to watch for. 1. Men’s Prime – Round 5 – Heat 16 Gabriel Medina (BRA) Jordy Smith (ZAF) One of the standouts of the event so far, Gabriel Medina, takes on the top-ranked surfer in the world in their Round of 16 matchup. Winner will move on to the US Open of Surfing Quarterfinals. 2. Men’s Prime – Round 5 – Heat 8 Dane Reynolds (USA) Brett Simpson USA) Local homeboy Brett Simpson looks to keep his US Open streak alive against the formidable Dane Reynolds. 3. Women’s Six-Star – Semifinal 1 Carissa Moore (HAW) Lakey Peterson (USA) Two of the top Women’s Junior surfers battle it out for a spot in the finals of the US Open of Surfing, where the winner will receive a $50,000 first-place check. 4. Men’s Pro Junior – Semifinal Kolohe Andino (USA) Ian Crane (USA) Evan Geiselman (USA) Cooper Chapman (AUS) The top Juniors in the world will battle it out for ultimate bragging rights at the HB Pier. With another swell forecasted to fill in, expect to see some amazing surfing. 5. Surfing All-Stars Expression Session You voted them here. Now you can watch the show at the HB Pier as the top surfers in the world showcase their stuff via jet ski assist. Expect to see some high-flying shenanigans. 6. Concert Stage – 4-7 PM – Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat The largest free music festival in the world finishes off with bang Saturday afternoon with Hot Hot Heat taking the stage at 4 PM, followed by Weezer. Come enjoy the free music on the sand at the HB Pier. Stay tuned for Sunday’s Pick Six as US Open concludes, and champions are decided.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic ìMicrophone for Youthî brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as ìAmerica’s Original Sports Companyîô and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck TaylorÆ All StarÆ shoe, the Jack PurcellÆ shoe and the One StarÆ shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42070 Evan Slater Friday, August 6, 2010 As expected, today is the smallest day of the US Open of Surfing thus far. Conditions are in the two-to-three foot range, with inconsistent sets and a slight texture from increasing onshore winds. The Men's Round of 24 is currently in the water, and will complete all eight heats before the Women's Quarterfinals begin at 11:30 AM PST. The Junior Men Quarters will run after the Women at 1:15 PM PST and two heats of the Hurley Pro Trials from 2:45 to 3:30 PM PST will round out the surfing portion of the day. All of the day's heats are available at www.usopenofsurfing.com. Later on this evening on the US Open Music stage, the six finalists go head to head in the Walk the Walk Grand Championship with Street Drum Corps and Cobra Starship providing the music. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams, photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42006 EvanFontaine Friday, August 6, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/42002 Evan Slater Friday, August 6, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, THURSDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 5th BRIEF OVERVIEW: The current south-southwest swell will back down on Thursday. A new, inconsistent southwest swell will slowly build on Friday and will be strongest over the weekend, although a little smaller and less consistent than the current swell for Huntington Beach. Mornings will offer the best conditions over the next few days, with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. FRIDAY 6th SWELL/SURF: Mix of old/leftover SSW swell and new/slow building SW swell. Look for sets mainly around 2-3' faces in the morning. Very occasional/inconsistent 4' waves show over the afternoon on the incoming tide. WIND: Calm to light/variable wind early and overcast skies. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/W seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon with clearing/sunny skies. SATURDAY 7th SWELL/SURF: The new SW swell fills in further and tops out with inconsistent 2-3' occasional 4' surf (largest sets pushing up to chest-shoulder high, but inconsistent). WIND: Calm to light/variable wind early and overcast skies. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/W seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon with clearing/sunny skies. SUNDAY 8th SWELL/SURF: SW swell continues to provide 2-4' surf (largest sets pushing up to chest-shoulder high, but inconsistent). Slightly more consistent as the swell shifts a bit more to the SSW direction. WIND: Calm to light/variable wind early and overcast skies. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/W seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon with clearing/sunny skies. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK Friday will still have contestable surf from a small mix of SW and SSW swells, although staying mainly around 2-3' on sets. Very occasional waves show up to 4', which will be most prominent over the afternoon on the building SW energy and incoming tide. For the final days of the contest (Sat-Sun), a new SW groundswell will build in from a storm that was near New Zealand over a week ago. We will see this new SW energy rise up over Friday and top out/hold for the weekend. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we're expecting very inconsistent surf on Friday and Saturday. As the swell turns a bit more to the SSW for Sunday, expect consistency to improve a little. For the weekend; look for surf to generally hang in the 2-4' range with the largest sets pushing up to chest-shoulder high. Due to the shadowing of the offshore islands, expect the surf to be inconsistent, especially on the larger sets and on Saturday. Incoming tide push in the early mornings for Sat/Sun, as well as the afternoons will improve the surf some. Whereas the mid-late mornings and late afternoons will be slow with the higher tide. Our wind/weather outlook remains similar to the past couple days: early morning wind will range from calm to light/variable to even very light onshore, with a little morning sickness possible and overcast skies, but overall fairly clean/smooth. Then expect a light to moderate WSW/West seabreeze to gradually develop over the mid-late morning and into the afternoon with clearing/sunny skies. Afternoon surface conditions will see a light texture/bump due to the onshore flow. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41977 Evan Slater Friday, August 6, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California (Thursday, August 5, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 tore through the Round of 48 today with ASP Dream Tour standouts Dane Reynolds (Ventura, CA), 24, and Jadson Andre (BRA), 20, earning the event’s top scores with massive aerial maneuvers at South Huntington Beach Pier. Surfers competing in the US Open of Surfing are out to capitalize on the crucial ratings points on offer to either solidify their position on, or qualify for the prestigious ASP Dream Tour. Once qualified the globe’s elite field of surfing talent battle for the title of ASP World Champion. Reynolds, who is currently rated No. 8 on the ASP Dream Tour, clinched the highest single-wave score of US Open of Surfing Competition today when the explosive Californian launched a gigantic inverted frontside 360 air on a closeout section, earning a near-perfect 9.87 out of 10 for the single maneuver. “I’m feeling pretty good,” Reynolds said. “I just rode this board for the first time yesterday and had a fun session on it so I was a little more confident than normal out there. When the first set came through and I didn’t get anything I was kind of worried. It was so grey out there I couldn’t see anything. I was on that wave and thought I was going to do turns but then I saw it was closing out, so it was kind of a hail Mary.” While most competitors were earning top scores for the lefthand ramps breaking towards Huntington Beach Pier, Reynolds opted to navigate away from his fellow competitors and earned his heat victory compliments of less obvious waves breaking on a peak further south of the pier. “Everyone else got that first set and then there was the lull,” Reynolds said. “They were all sitting next to the pier, so I figured I’d get as far away as possible because I can’t paddle battle for waves. I was watching in the heat before and saw some waves over in that corner and luckily they came to me.” Andre, Current No. 6 on the ASP Dream Tour, was another aerial standout who capitalized on the new ASP judging criteria put in place for 2010. The high-flying Brazilian earned the event’s highest heat total of an outstanding 17.80 out of 20, while only relying on a single maneuver on each wave to garner the impressive two-wave result. “It’s (Huntington) not one of the best waves in the world, but I think it’s one of the best waves to do one big maneuver,” Andre said. “My hometown in Brazil is the same. I’ve been here several times and I like this place, I like this wave and I’m just stoked to make one more heat.” Andre, who is currently amidst his rookie year on the ASP Dream Tour, is enjoying his time at this year’s US Open of Surfing more than in years past now that he’s in excellent position to make the dreaded midyear cut scheduled to unfold after the fifth ASP World Title event. “It’s amazing to come to this event with less pressure,” Andre said. “It’s one of the best events in the world and almost all the best surfers in the world are here. Last year I was trying to qualify (for the ASP Dream Tour), so the pressure was on, now that I’m on tour it is fun to come to this event and try and do big maneuvers. I’m just enjoying it.” Miguel Pupo (BRA), 19, has been launching his way through the rounds with a similar strategy to close friend, Andre. The Brazilian goofy-footer has been consistently garnering top scores with critical airs and is hoping he can continue to push through the rounds to earn a top result at the ASP PRIME event to help his cause towards qualification for his position amongst the elite. “I’ve been just trying to make the airs and I’ve been getting good scores, so hopefully I can just keep it going,” Pupo said. “It’s a pretty good result so far. Last year I finished 53rd on the WQS, so I’m hoping I can do better this year and keep climbing the ratings. Other advancing surfers include two-time ASP World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS), 29, surfing icon Kelly Slater (Cocoa Beach FL), 38, Owen Wright (AUS), 20, and current ASP World No. 1 Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22. There were also plenty of other events going on throughout the day. Timmy Curran and Switchfoot performed in front of a packed crowd on the live music stage following the end of the day’s surf action. Make sure to come down and check out the concerts the next two days. The music lineup for the rest of the week: Thu – Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran, Fri – Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps, Sat – Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat. Music starts at 4:30 PM. The Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro started today with the first round of Qualifiers. Round two of Qualifiers for the BMX Pro will be starting tomorrow at 2:30 PM. Tune in to the LIVE webcast or come down and check out the high-flying action in person. Converse Coastal Carnage practice runs will also be going down at the skate bowl. For more on the US Open of Surfing go to usopenofsurfing.comfor LIVE webcasts, heats on demand and full event schedule. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org. US Open of Surfing Round of 48 Results: Heat 1: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 15.60, Kiron Jabour (HAW) 12.17, Shaun Cansdell (AUS) 11.07, Leigh Sedley (AUS) 10.20Heat 2: Olamana Eleogram (HAW) 14.96, Jordy Smith (ZAF) 12.33, Gabe Kling (USA) 8.54, Willian Cardoso (BRA) 5.54? Heat 3: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 16.47, Bede Durbidge (AUS) 12.76, Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF) 11.44, Nate Yeomans (USA) 8.83 Heat 4: Jadson Andre (BRA) 17.80, Cory Lopez (USA) 11.16, Jeremy Flores (FRA) 9.60, Austin Ware (USA) 8.70? Heat 5: Mick Fanning (AUS) 15.23, Evan Geiselman (USA) 14.70, Jihad Khodr (BRA) 12.03, Tanner Gudauskas (USA) 11.70? Heat 6: Nic Muscroft (AUS) 10.23, Kekoa Bacalso (HAW) 9.37, Blake Thornton (AUS) 9.30, Aritz Aranburu (EUK) 6.60? Heat 7: Adrian Buchan (AUS) 14.20, Kelly Slater (USA) 13.57, Rob Machado (USA) 13.50, Thiago Camarao (BRA) 10.77? Heat 8: Granger Larsen (HAW) 13.00, Heitor Alves (BRA) 10.73, Wiggoly Dantas (BRA) 10.26, Oliver Kurtz (USA) 4.60? Heat 9: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 12.60, Jay Thompson (AUS) 10.10, Mason Ho (HAW) 9.13, Nathan Hedge (AUS) 5.63? Heat 10: Dane Reynolds (USA) 14.37, Adam Melling (AUS) 10.50, Dion Atkinson (AUS) 9.28, Drew Courtney (AUS) 8.36? Heat 11: Owen Wright (AUS) 15.34, Patrick Gudauskas (USA) 13.43, Taj Burrow (AUS) 8.43, Kolohe Andino (USA) 7.90Heat 12: Brett Simpson (USA) 12.93, Nathaniel Curran (USA) 10.47, Chris Waring (USA) 8.87, Lincoln Taylor (AUS) 7.95 US Open of Surfing Round of 96 Results: Heat 19: Adam Melling (AUS) 14.50, Jay Thompson (AUS) 14.27, Yadin Nicol (AUS) 10.90, Dylan Graves (PRI) 9.56? Heat 20: Dane Reynolds (USA) 15.70, Nathan Hedge (AUS) 12.47, Rodrigo Dornelles (BRA) 9.67, David Weare (ZAF) 8.70? Heat 21: Owen Wright (AUS) 13.27, Chris Waring (USA) 9.63, Diego Rosa (BRA) 6.23, Josh Kerr (AUS) 6.06? Heat 22: Kolohe Andino (USA) 12.87, Lincoln Taylor (AUS) 11.80, Alejo Muniz (BRA) 10.73, Taylor Knox (USA) 8.93? Heat 23: Brett Simpson (USA) 15.17, Patrick Gudauskas (USA) 15.06, Julian Wilson (AUS) 13.43, Andre Silva (BRA) 7.67? Heat 24: Nathaniel Curran (USA) 12.54, Taj Burrow (AUS) 10.34, Tim Reyes (USA) 8.94, Eneko Acero (EUK) 8.27   PICK SIX: WEDNESDAY What to watch for on day seven of the US Open of Surfing Men’s Round of 24 will finish up, followed by the Women’s Six-Star and Junior Men’s Quarterfinals. Top-ranked World Tour and Junior surfers battle for the US Open of Surfing title. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Men’s Prime – Round 4 – Heat 2 Kiron Jabour (HAW) Jordy Smith (ZAF) Miguel Pupo (BRA) Top-ranked Jordy Smith faces off against the standout of the event so far, Miguel Pupo. Also in the mix is Junior standout, Kiron Jabour. 2. Men’s Prime – Round 4 – Heat 7 Dane Reynolds (USA) Owen Wright (AUS) Nathaniel Curran (USA) The two standouts from yesterday, Dane and Owen, will take to the air again tomorrow in their Round of 24 match up. Also in the heat is Nathaniel Curran, past US Open Champ. Winners will move on to the Quarterfinals. 3. Men’s Pro Junior – Quarterfinal 2 Kiron Jabour (HAW) Cooper Chapman (HAW) Andrew Doheny (USA) Evan Geiselman (USA) Men’s ASP Prime standouts, Evan Geiselman and Kiron Jabour, take on a stacked heat in the quarterfinals of the Pro Junior. Andrew Doheny is a force to be reckoned with, as he took home the last Pro Junior title at Lower Trestles. 4. Women’s Six-Star – Quarterfinal 1 Carissa Moore (HAW) Laura Enever (AUS) The two standouts of the Women’s event thus far square off in their quarterfinal match up. One of them will move one spot closer to claiming the coveted $50,000 first-place prize and US Open title. 5. Hurley Walk the Walk Grand Championship The nation decided who would make it to the finals of the Walk the Walk Championship at the US Open of Surfing. Watch the top high schools strut their stuff on stage as they try to take home the Walk the Walk crown and the $25,000 first-place prize. 6. Concert Stage – 4-7 PM – Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps The largest free music festival in the world continues Friday afternoon with Street Drum Corps taking the stage at 4 PM, followed by Cobra Starship. Come enjoy the free music on the sand at the HB Pier. Stay tuned for Saturday’s Pick Six as Men’s Round 4, Women’s Quarterfinals, Men’s Juniors Quarterfinals and Hurley Pro Trials all get in on the action.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic ìMicrophone for Youthî brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as ìAmerica’s Original Sports Companyîô and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck TaylorÆ All StarÆ shoe, the Jack PurcellÆ shoe and the One StarÆ shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41860 Evan Slater Thursday, August 5, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 4th BRIEF OVERVIEW: The current south-southwest swell will back down on Thursday. A new, inconsistent southwest swell will slowly build on Friday and will be strongest over the weekend, although a little smaller and less consistent than the current swell for Huntington Beach. Mornings will offer the best conditions over the next few days, with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. THURSDAY 5th SWELL/SURF: Smaller leftovers from the SSW with 3' faces and a few larger sets to 4'. WIND: Light SW wind early, with light to moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. FRIDAY 6th SWELL/SURF: Mix of leftover SSW swell and slow building, new SW swell for 2-3' faces in the morning and very occasional 4' waves building for the afternoon. WIND: Light SW wind early, with light to moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SATURDAY 7th SWELL/SURF: SW swell fills in further with inconsistent 3-4' surf (waist to occasional shoulder high sets). WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SUNDAY 8th SWELL/SURF: SW swell continues with slightly more consistent 3-4' surf (waist to shoulder high sets) as the swell shifts a bit more to the SSW direction. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK Thursday will still have very contestable, and occasionally fun size, surf out of the SSW, although the swell will be fading through the day. For the last couple days of the contest holding period a new SW swell will build in from a storm that was near New Zealand about a week ago. We will see a gradual rise in size through the day on Friday the 6th, with the largest surf from this swell for the weekend of the 7th-8th. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we're expecting very inconsistent surf on Friday and into Saturday. As the swell turns a bit more to the SSW late Saturday and especially Sunday, consistency will improve. Size-wise, waist-shoulder high sets can be expected from Friday afternoon through Sunday, occasionally a little better. Again, very inconsistent on Friday and into Saturday with the swell being very west (we'll even be able to see better waves down the beach through HB State Beach and especially Newport, with the pier more in the shadow of the offshore islands), with improving consistency Sunday as the swell shifts more to the SSW. The tropics are quiet at the moment and we're not expecting anything of significance to develop and be able to send us surf. Our wind/weather outlook remains similar to the past couple days: early morning wind will range from light/variable to very light onshore, with a little morning sickness possible, but overall pretty smooth. Afternoon onshore WSW to W wind will build to light to moderate levels. We should see a slight cooling trend for the end of the work week and the weekend, with a deeper and longer lasting marine layer (ie., longer lasting overcast skies). Next Update by: Thursday evening, August 5th http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41830 Evan Slater Thursday, August 5, 2010 Sets are a little less consistent this morning, but the surf remains in the two-to-four-foot range and highly contestable. The first handful of heats were dominated by big names, with Brett Simpson, Dane Reynolds, Owen Wright, Pat Gudauskas and Kolohe Andino advancing to the Round of 48. Round of 96 action will wrap up at 10:45, then it's into the 12 heats of the Round of 48. All heats are available at www.usopenofsurfing.com. Later on this evening on the Live Music stage, Timmy Curran opens for Switchfoot beginning at 4:30 PM. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams, photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41831 EvanFontaine Thursday, August 5, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Wednesday, August 4, 2010) - The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 saw several ASP Dream Tour competitors make early exits in the Round of 96 today at the hands of young talent and international standouts at South Huntington Beach Pier in peaky two-to-four foot (1 metre) surf. Surfers competing in the ASP PRIME US Open of Surfing are out to clinch their share of the invaluable ratings points on offer towards their ASP World Ranking in an attempt to qualify for the elite ASP Dream Tour. Willian Cardoso (BRA), 24, current No. 34 on the ASP World Ranking, charged to a come-from-behind victory by catapulting from last to first by blasting the day’s highest single wave score of 9.00 out of 10 before snatching one of the day’s highest heat totals of an impressive 15.50 out of 20, all within the last five minutes of his heat, to eliminate ASP World Title Race No.15, Fred Patacchia (North Shore, HI), 28. “That was a nerve wracking heat,” Cardoso said. “It’s hard out there with four guys and not very many waves. I was looking for the good ones and got two good scores in the last five minutes. I went from fourth to first, so I’m really happy. To be in surf competitions, you need to know that you can get 15 points in two minutes. You just need the waves.” Cardoso attributed the heat victory in today’s tricky conditions to the similar surf of offer at his Brazilian training grounds. “I have a lot of experience in these small conditions,” Cardoso said. “There are lots of small beachbreaks in Brazil. The one thing that is different here is that the water is so cold here in Huntington.” Granger Larsen (Lahaina, HI), 20, who posted the highest heat total in the Round of 128, returned to form in Round 2 to repeat his performance, nabbing the highest heat total of the Round of 96 as well, a solid two-wave score of 15.83 out of 20. “I wanted to get a wave right on the bell and was able to get a warm up wave,” Larsen said. “It wasn’t one of my scores, but it helped me build confidence. Then I got that 6 and that 7 and all of a sudden that set came at the end and I got an 8.” Evan Geiselman (New Smyrna Beach, FL), 17, who is a US Open of Surfing wildcard, jumped out to an early lead in his stacked Round of 96 heat by punting a massive frontside air-reverse on a lefthand ramp breaking into Huntington Beach Pier and was rewarded an impressive 8.60 for the single maneuver. The young Floridian managed to find another solid backup score and maintained the lead to take out the heat victory. “Pretty much, any time you catch a wave in the beginning of the heat and get an 8 it helps, but I was still pretty nervous,” Geiselman said. “My legs were still shaking because I knew the guys in that heat were so good, but it definitely gave me a little breathing room.” Geiselman, who is the current ASP North America Pro Junior Series ratings leader, also had his hand in issuing a major upset by defeating his Floridian idol, former ASP World Champion and U.S. Open of Surfing Champion C.J. Hobgood (Melbourne, FL), 31, while topping current ASP Dream Tour rookie Blake Thornton (AUS), 25, who advanced in second. “That was the biggest heat of my life surfing against C.J. (Hobgood) and beating him,” Geiselman said. “Being from Florida, he’s someone that I’ve looked up to. I was just stoked to have a heat with him but I’m really happy to have won it.” Despite the early elimination of several top seeds today, reigning two-time ASP World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS), 29, nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater (Cocoa Beach, FL), 38, and current ASP World No. 1 Jordy Smith advanced through to the Round of 48 amongst others. The surfing out in the water wasn’t the only thing going on. Iration and Bedouin Soundclash performed in front of a packed crowd on the live music stage following the end of the day’s surf action. The music lineup for the rest of the week: Thu – Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran, Fri – Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps, Sat – Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat. Music starts at 4:30 PM. The Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro will start tomorrow. Qualifier 1 will begin at 3:00 PM. Be sure to tune in to the LIVE webcast or come down to check out the high-flying action in person. There will also be Converse Coastal Carnage practice runs going down at the skate bowl. For more on the US Open of Surfing go to usopenofsurfing.comfor LIVE webcasts, heats on demand and full event schedule. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org. US Open of Surfing Men’s Round of 96 Results: Heat 1: Kiron Jabour (HAW) 12.80, Jordy Smith (ZAF) 12.66, Glen Hall (IRL) 10.36, Leonardo Neves (BRA) 9.76Heat 2: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 11.17, Ola Eleogram (HAW) 10.87, Matt Wilkinson (AUS) 10.16, Dean Morrison (AUS) 9.24? Heat 3: Shaun Cansdell (AUS) 11.77, Gabe Kling (USA) 11.50, Tim Boal (FRA) 11.17, Michel Bourez (PYF) 11.03? Heat 4: Willian Cardoso (BRA) 15.50, Leigh Sedley (AUS) 14.23, Fredrick Patacchia (HAW) 12.50, Marco Giorgi (URY) 10.26? Heat 5: Bede Durbidge (AUS) 15.40, Austin Ware (USA) 12.80, Michael Picon (FRA) 11.10, Eric Geiselman (USA) 9.23? Heat 6: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 14.00, Jeremy Flores (FRA) 11.97, Neco Padaratz (BRA) 9.80, Rudy Palmboom (ZAF) 6.67? Heat 7: Cory Lopez (USA) 12.93, Nate Yeomans (USA) 12.90, Marcio Farney (BRA) 8.90, Andy Irons (HAW) 4.00? Heat 8:Jadson Andre (BRA) 12.16, Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF) 11.44, Sebastien Zietz (HAW) 10.70, Bernardo Miranda (BRA) 10.54? Heat 9: Jihad Khodr (BRA) 13.47, Aritz Aranburu (EUK) 10.50, Damien Hobgood (USA) 9.33, Pablo Paulino (BRA) 3.33? Heat 10: Evan Geiselman (USA) 14.67, Blake Thornton (AUS) 13.90, C.J. Hobgood (USA) 13.60, Nat Young (USA) 12.30 Heat 11: Kekoa Bacalso (HAW) 13.74, Tanner Gudauskas (USA) 12.97, Blake Wilson (USA) 11.07, Luke Davis (USA) 7.86? Heat 12: Nic Muscroft (USA) 11.17, Mick Fanning (AUS) 10.60, Brandon Jackson (ZAF) 10.27, Hizunome Bettero (BRA) 4.36? Heat 13: Kelly Slater (USA) 13.54, Wiggolly Dantas (BRA) 12.70, Dayyan Neve (AUS) 10.40, Alain Riou (PYF) 5.90? Heat 14: Thiago Camarao (BRA) 15.17, Oliver Kurtz (USA) 12.66, Dusty Payne (HAW) 10.60, Ben Dunn (AUS) 7.33? Heat 15: Heitor Alves (BRA) 15.17, Rob Machado (USA) 6.50, Chris Davidson (AUS) 5.17, Sunny Garcia (HAW) 4.16? Heat 16: Granger Larsen (HAW) 15.83, Adrian Buchan (AUS) 8.27, Joan Duru (FRA) 7.60, Gony Zubizarreta (ESP) 6.64? Heat 17: Adriano de Souza (BRA) 13.10, Dion Atkinson (AUS) 10.96, Chris Ward (USA) 8.80, Jack Perry (AUS) 8.70? Heat 18: Mason Ho (HAW) 14.33, Drew Courtney (AUS) 10.40, Paulo Moura (BRA) 10.27, Roy Powers (HAW) 7.80?    PICK SIX: THURSDAY What to watch for on day six of the US Open of Surfing Men’s Round of 96 will finish up, followed by the start of Round of 48. Top-ranked World Tour and Junior surfers battle for the $100,000 first-place-prize. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 20 Dane Reynolds (USA) Rodrigo Dornelles (BRA) David Weare (ZAF) Nathan Hedge (AUS) Dane Reynolds, arguably the most exciting surfer in the world, surfs first thing tomorrow morning. You do not want to miss it. 2. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 23 Brett Simpson (USA) Patrick Gudauskas (USA) Julian Wilson (AUS) Andre Silva (BRA) Local boy Brett Simpson tries to repeat last year’s performance with a US Open victory. Standing in his way are Patrick Gudauskas, Andre Silva and young gun Julian Wilson. 3. Men’s Prime – Round 3 – Heat 2 Jordy Smith (ZAF) Ola Eleogram (HAW) Gabe Kling (USA) Willian Cardoso (BRA) The current top-ranked WT surfer takes on a stacked heat. Ola has been on fire throughout the event and Gabe Kling is fresh off a win at the ASP Prime Trestles Pro. 4. Men’s Prime – Round 3 – Heat 5 Jihad Khodr (BRA) Evan Geiselman (USA) Tanner Gudauskas (USA) Mick Fanning (AUS) The two-time defending World Champ takes on top Junior Evan Geiselman and local WT surfer Tanner Gudauskas. 5. Men’s Prime – Round 3 – Heat 7 Kelly Slater (USA) Thiago Camarao (BRA) Rob Machado (USA) Adrian Buchan (AUS) This is the heat of the event thus far. It doesn’t get much better than Kelly and Rob. WT surfer Ace Buchan and Round 2 standout Thiago Camarao look to take down the legends. 6. Concert Stage – 4-7 PM – Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran The largest free music festival in the world continues Thursday afternoon with music star/ pro surfer Timmy Curran taking the stage at 4 PM, followed by Switchfoot. Come enjoy the free music on the sand at the HB Pier. Stay tuned for Friday’s Pick Six as Men’s Round 4, Women’s Quarterfinals, Men’s Juniors Quarterfinals and Hurley Pro Trials all get in on the action.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41783 Evan Slater Wednesday, August 4, 2010 All 18 heats of the Men's Round of 96 will run today in two-to-four foot surf. Right now, conditions are glassy and sets are consistent. Current world number one, Jordy Smith, opened the morning's action, advancing behind Kiron Jabour to the Round of 48. Some heats to keep an eye on later in the day include Heat 7 (Andy Irons, Nate Yeomans, Marcio Farney, Corey Lopez), Heat 10 (CJ Hobgood, Blake Thornton, Evan Geiselman, Nat Young) and Heat 13 (Kelly Slater… enough said). Later on this evening on the Live Music stage, Iration opens for Bedouin Soundclash beginning at 4:30 PM. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams, photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41701 EvanFontaine Wednesday, August 4, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, TUESDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 3rd BRIEF OVERVIEW: The current south-southwest swell will offer smaller leftovers on Wednesday and Thursday, although still very contestable surf prevails. A new, inconsistent southwest swell will slowly build on Friday and will be strongest over the weekend, although a little smaller than the current swell for Huntington Beach. Mornings will offer the best conditions over the next few days, with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. WEDNESDAY 4th SWELL/SURF: SSW swell leftovers with less consistent 2-4’ faces and fading through the day. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. THURSDAY 5th SWELL/SURF: Small leftovers from the SSW with 2-3’ faces and a few leftover larger sets. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. FRIDAY 6th SWELL/SURF: Mix of leftover SSW swell and slow building, new SW swell for 2-3’ faces in the morning and very occasional 4’ waves building for the afternoon. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SATURDAY 7th SWELL/SURF: SW swell fills in further with inconsistent 3-4’ surf (waist to occasional shoulder high sets). WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SUNDAY 8th SWELL/SURF: SW swell continues with slightly more consistent 3-4’ surf (waist to shoulder high sets). WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW/W wind in the afternoon. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK The current SSW swell will fade further over the next couple days, offering some fun size leftovers on Wednesday, with waves looking pretty small by Thursday. For the last couple days of the contest holding period a new SW swell will build in from a storm that was near New Zealand several days ago. We will see a gradual rise in size through the day on Friday the 6th, with the largest surf from this swell for the weekend of the 7th-8th. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we’re expecting very inconsistent surf on Friday and into Saturday. As the swell turns a bit more to the SSW later Saturday and Sunday, consistency will gradually improve. Size-wise, waist-shoulder high sets can be expected from Friday afternoon through Sunday. Again, very inconsistent on Friday and into Saturday, with improving consistency Saturday afternoon and Sunday. The tropics are quiet at the moment and we’re not expecting anything of significance to develop in the next couple days. Our wind/weather outlook remains generally unchanged: early morning wind will range from light/variable to very light onshore, with a little morning sickness possible, but overall pretty smooth. Afternoon onshore WSW to W wind will build to moderate levels. Next Update by: Wednesday evening, August 4th http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41698 EvanFontaine Wednesday, August 4, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Tuesday, August 3, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing marched through Round 1 of the main event in tricky one-to-three foot (1 metre) surf at South Huntington Beach Pier today and saw ASP Pro Junior Standouts Granger Larsen (Lahaina, HI), 20, and Nat Young (Santa Cruz, CA), 18, rise to the top of the impressive field by posting some of the day’s top scores. Competitors surfing in this year’s US Open of Surfing are out to capitalize on the mass of ratings points on offer towards their ASP World Ranking in an attempt to either solidify their position on or qualify for the 2011 ASP Dream Tour. Larsen managed to navigate his way through a wave starved heat, but still crushed the day’s highest single-wave score of an impressive 8.93 out of 10 on the way to snagging the highest heat total of Round 1, 14.97 out of 20. “There were no waves in the beginning of the heat,” Larsen said. “I was just looking for a wave that actually broke and my goal was just to get one turn out the back and do a turn on the inside. Then that magical left came and gave me two turns out the back. I’m stoked to get that last wave at the end and get an 8.97. I obviously really wanted to make that heat. I was pretty happy with it.” Larsen, who was a standout in his opening ASP Pro Junior heat, hopes that he can use both the US Open Pro Junior and the men’s ASP PRIME main event to build momentum as the rounds progress. “I feel like the more heats I do out here, the more confident I feel,” Larsen said. “I feel like I’ll do better in every heat, so hopefully it keeps going for me.” Young, who is the defending ASP North America Pro Junior Series Champion, relied on a magic small-wave board to advance through today’s soft conditions while posting some of the day’s highest scores and expressed the importance of modified equipment for success at South Huntington Beach Pier today. “I got two decent waves and my board goes really good out there,” Young said. “That helped a lot. Having a board that goes fast over those flat sections really helped.” Young, who is still competing on the ASP North America Pro Junior Series, is currently sitting in the No. 74 position on the ASP World Ranking and has been focusing his time towards building his seed amongst the world’s finest up-and-comers and is becoming consistently more comfortable competing in ASP PRIME events. “I feel more comfortable since I’ve been doing them quite a bit this year,” Young said. “It’s nice to be able to do both the Pro Junior and the PRIME event.” Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), 19, who posted the day’s highest scores in yesterday’s early rounds, continued to assert her dominance on her fellow competitors today by unleashing the highest score of Women’s US Open of Surfing, a near perfect 9.00 out of 10 despite the tricky decreasing swell on offer. “The swell has dropped this morning,” Fitzgibbons said. “It’s a bit smaller for the Round of 12, but I was able to get a few high scores. The 9 was one of the bigger waves and it was a bit bowlier and offered two big turns. I just tried to go big on it and I’m happy to move through to the Quarterfinals.” Fitzgibbons, who is currently rated No. 2 on the ASP Women’s Dream Tour, has been a constant Finalist throughout the season, and is hoping to keep the ball rolling in an attempt to take out this year’s historic $50,000 prize purse for this year’s Women’s US Open of Surfing winner. “It’s one step closer to the $50,000 for sure,” Fitzgibbons said. “It’d be nice to make a Final here. I haven’t made a Final here at the US Open. Huntington is one of those challenging waves that would be pretty cool to master and with that extra incentive, people are pushing the level.” Tuesday also saw the start of its free live music festival. Soft Pack and Cold War Kids performed right after the conclusion of the day’s surfing action to a capacity crowd at the live music stage. The music lineup for the week: Wed – Bedouin Soundclash preceded by Iration, Thu – Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran, Fri – Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps, Sat – Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat. Music starts at 4:30 PM. For more on the US Open of Surfing go to www.usopenofsurfing.comfor LIVE webcasts, heats on demand and full event schedule. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to www.aspworldtour.com or www.aspnorthamerica.org. Men’s US Open of Surfing Round of 128 Results:Heat 1: Kiron Jabour (HAW) 14.00, Ola Eleogram (HAW) 10.53, Raoni Monteiro (BRA) 8.93, James Taipan Wood (AUS) 7.86? Heat 2: Gabriel Medina (BRA) 14.60, Shaun Cansdell (AUS) 11.17, Ian Gentil (HAW) 7.00, Corey Ziems (AUS) 6.60Heat 3: Marcio Giorgi (URY) 10.83, Eric Geiselman (USA) 7.16, Brian Toth (PRI) 5.44, Masatoshi Ohno (JPN) 1.93? Heat 4: Rudy Palmboom (ZAF) 10.57, Marcio Farney (BRA) 10.10, Shaun Ward (USA) 8.47, Brad Ettinger (USA) 6.97? Heat 5: Cory Lopez (USA) 12.10, Miguel Pupo (BRA) 11.27, Torrey Meister (HAW) 9.83, Tom Curren (USA) 9.66? Heat 6: Damien Fahrenfort (ZAF) 9.90, Pablo Paulino (BRA) 9.43, Kieran Horn (USA) 9.20, Yuri Sodre (BRA) 8.00? Heat 7: Nat Young (USA) 14.83, Blake Wilson (AUS) 12.67, Jean da Silva (BRA) 11.37, Adam Robertson (AUS) 9.10Heat 8: Luke Davis (USA) 13.33, Hizunome Bettero (BRA) 12.83, Rhys Bombaci (AUS) 10.37, T.J. Barron (HAW) 12.83Heat 9: Wiggoly Dantas (BRA) 14.93, Thiago Camarao (BRA) 13.57, Tomas Hermes (BRA) 12.50, Joel Centeio (HAW) 10.26? Heat 10: Oliver Kurtz (USA) 12.50, Sunny Garcia (HAW) 12.04, Jarrad Sullivan (AUS) 9.67, Jayke Sharp (AUS) 6.93? Heat 11: Granger Larsen (HAW) 14.97, Jack Perry (AUS) 14.60, Tonino Benson (HAW) 10.27, Hodei Collazo (EUK) 8.77? Heat 12: Paulo Moura (BRA) 12.93, Yadin Nicol (AUS) 9.60, Dane Gudauskas (USA) 9.47, Jonathan Gonzalez (CNY) 8.70? Heat 13: Dylan Graves (PRI) 12.36, Mason Ho (HAW) 9.77, John John Florence (HAW) 8.66, Jesse Merle-Jones (HAW) 7.76Heat 14: Nathan Hedge (AUS) 10.84, Diego Rosa (BRA) 8.64, Yujiro Tsuji (JPN) 7.27, Maxime Huscenot (FRA) 3.27? Heat 15: Lincoln Taylor (AUS) 12.16, Julian Wilson (AUS) 8.70, Brent Dorrington (AUS) 7.63, Kai Barger (HAW) 5.43? Heat 16:Andre Silva (BRA) 12.50, Eneko Acero (EUK) 8.43, Mike Losness (USA) 8.07, Royden Bryson (ZAF) 8.04 Women’s US Open of Surfing Round of 12 Results:Heat 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) 8.83, Lakey Peterson (USA) 5.73, Chantelle Rautenbach (ZAF) 5.27? Heat 2: Tyler Wright (AUS) 13.77, Laura Enever (AUS) 9.36, Claire Bevilacqua (AUS) 8.57? Heat 3: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 15.17, Justine Dupont (FRA) 8.67, Nicola Atherton (AUS) 8.06? Heat 4: Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 12.64, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 10.20, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 7.60   PICK SIX: WEDNESDAY Day five action The Men’s heavy hitters take to the water tomorrow, Aug 3. The ASP Prime Round of 96 will begin at 7:30 AM. Expect some great action as top-ranked World Tour surfers battle for the $100,000 first-place-prize. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 7 Andy Irons (HAW) Nate Yeomans (USA) Marcio Farney (BRA) Cory Lopez (USA) The three-time World Champ takes on fellow WT competitor Nate Yeomans as well as high-flying Cory Lopez and Brazilian Marcio Farney. 2. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 10 C.J. Hobgood (USA) Blake Thornton (AUS) Evan Geiselman (USA) Nat Young (USA) Top American Juniors take on Australian Blake Jones and WT staple C.J. Hobgood. 3. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 11 Kekoa Bacalso (HAW) Tanner Gudauskas (USA) Blake Wilson (AUS) Luke Davis (USA) Luke Davis has been on a tear throughout the US Open thus far. He looks to keep his streak alive as he goes up against WT surfers, Kekoa and Tanner. 4. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 13 Kelly Slater (USA) Dayyan Neve (AUS) Alain Riou (PYF) Wiggolly Dantas (BRA) Kelly Slater starts his US Open campaign trying to better his 5th place finish from 2009. 5. Men’s Prime – Round 2 – Heat 15 Chris Davidson (AUS) Heitor Alves (BRA) Rob Machado (USA) Sunny Garcia (HAW) Surfing legends, Rob Machado and Sunny Garcia, face off in a tough Round 2 heat against WT surfer Chris Davidson and Brazilian Heitor Alves. 6. Concert Stage – 4-7 PM – Bedouin Soundclash and Iration The largest free music festival in the world continues Wednesday afternoon with Iration taking the stage at 4 PM, followed by Bedouin Soundclash. Come enjoy the free music on the sand at the HB Pier. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as Men’s Round 2 finishes up Round 3 gets started.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com. About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. nike6.com. About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel.  Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports.  IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year.  More information is available at: imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41643 Evan Slater Tuesday, August 3, 2010 Surfers awoke to a decreasing swell this morning, and a rising tide isn't helping matters, as sets are in the two-to-foot foot range and soft. The four heats from the Round of 12 of the ASP Women's 6-Star are in the books. Advancing to the quarters were Carissa Moore, Lakey Peterson, Laura Enever, Tyler Wright, SAlly Fitzgibbons, Justine Dupont, Jacqueline Silva and Sarah Baum. The Opening heats of the Men's Round of 128 are in the water now, 16 heats in total will run today, ending at around 4:00 PM. For LIVE action throughout the day, tune into the webcast at the usopenofsurfing.com. Tonight marks the opening night at the live music stage, with The Soft Pack opening for Cold War Kids at 4:30 PM. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams (the webcast starts Tuesday), photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41588 EvanFontaine Tuesday, August 3, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Monday, August 2, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Women’s 6-Star US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 saw reigning three-time ASP Women’s World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), 22, and defending event champion Courtney Conlogue (Santa Ana, CA), 17, fall in Round 3 of competition today with Carissa Moore (Honolulu, HI), 17, and Laura Enever (AUS), 18, advancing through the stacked heat in tricky two-to-four foot (1 metre) South Huntington Beach Pier conditions. Surfers competing at the ASP 6-Star US Open of Surfing are out to claim the priceless ratings points towards qualification for the ASP Women’s Dream Tour. Accompanying the ratings points this year will be a groundbreaking $50,000 for the 2010 Women’s US Open of Surfing Champion. Moore emerged victorious in the paramount heat, which split first and third places by less than one point to advance through to the Round of 12 by capitalizing on the Huntington Beach right-handers. The Hawaiian prodigy unleashed flashy tail-drifting turns while finishing strong on the inside to take out the win. “It was a Round 3 heat with Steph (Gilmore), Laura (Enever) and Courtney (Conlogue),” Moore said. “That could have very well been a Final. You have the World Champion and defending event champion, so it was just crazy. Every one of those girls just rips and especially with the conditions out here, it’s a little random, so everyone can do anything at anytime.” Moore’s massive heat victory also keeps her in the running for the historic $50,000 prize-purse in place for this year’s Women’s US Open of Surfing winner, the largest in women’s professional surfing history. “It’s pretty crazy that Nike decided to step up and decided to put fifty grand for first place for the girls,” Moore said. “I think it’s awesome. There’s a lot more on the line and a lot more excitement and I think it’s great to have them support us like that.” Enever, who is the reigning ASP Women’s World Junior Champion, escaped the heavy heat over Conlogue by three 10ths of a point to advance to the Round of 12 and after an impressive run in yesterday’s ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior event, the young Australian is hoping to build momentum in an attempt to take out the monumental prize purse. “I had some good heats yesterday in the Pro Junior and then to come back today and make it through that heat, it’s been a really amazing contest so far and it’s only been the first two days,” Enever said. “I’m stoked and hopefully I can just make it as far as I can. It’d be great to take the 50 grand, but I guess anything is possible now after that heat.” Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), 19, current ASP Women’s Dream Tour No. 2, detonated the event’s highest scores in her Round of 24 heat, blasting a near perfect 9.00 out of 10 while accumulating the highest heat total of 17.17 out of 20. “It’s good to get two rounds out of the way,” Fitzgibbons said. “I was feeling really good out there and in rhythm of the sets. It was fun out there.” Fitzgibbons, who has three consecutive runner-up finishes in the last three ASP Women’s World Title events and was the winner of the Portuguese based ASP 6-Star event earlier this season, also has her eye on the landmark $50,000 prize purse but knows there is still a long road ahead. “It’s super early days, but it’s fantastic that Nike has put up the money,” Fitzgibbons said. “It makes it all the more exciting. There is a long way to go yet, but it’d be a nice incentive.” Lakey Peterson (Santa Barbara, CA), 15, who is an event wildcard, smashed some of the day’s top scores in her opening heat. The young Californian put on an impressive first showing on the international stage to eliminate current ASP Dream Tour campaigners Paige Hareb (NZL), 20, and Bruna Schmitz (BRA), 20, and is now only one of 12 competitors remaining in the event. “The waves were really tricky and it could have gone either way in all of them,” Peterson said. “I felt really good in my first heat and my second heat was kind of just whoever got the best waves really. I’m just really excited to make it to the Round before the Quarterfinals.” Peterson, who is competing in her first ever ASP Star rated event, was thrilled to capitalize on the ever-important ratings points at the ASP 6-Star event while being a part of women’s surfing history with Nike 6.0’s donation of the increased prize purse. “This is my first ASP Star event,” Peterson said. “Today gives me a lot of confidence and to be a part of this event with the biggest prize purse in women’s history is a big honor.” Tomorrow, the Mens ASP Prime event will begin directly following the Womens WQS Six-Star Round of 12. Day Four action of the US Open of Surfing will feature the start of its LIVE webcasting [via usopenofsurfing.com], heats on demand and FREE live music. Performing will be Soft Pack and Cold War Kids. Music starts at 4:00 PM. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.comor aspnorthamerica.org. US Open of Surfing Women’s Round of 24 Results: Heat 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) 14.94, Laura Enever (AUS) 14.67, Courtney Conlogue (USA) 14.37, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 10.30? Heat 2: Lakey Peterson (USA) 9.50, Tyler Wright (AUS) 9.07, Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) 10.10, Paige Hareb (NZL) 4.00? Heat 3: Claire Bevilacqua (AUS) 7.33, Chantelle Rautenbach (ZAF) 6.66, Malia Manuel (HAW) 6.40, Felicity Palmateer (AUS) 4.87? Heat 4: Justine Dupont (FRA) 11.83, Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 8.50, Sage Erickson (USA) 7.73, Sofia Mulanovich (PER) 4.43? Heat 5: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 17.17, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 13.60, Cannelle Bulard (REU) 7.70, Karina Petroni (USA) 6.17? Heat 6: Alana Blanchard (HAW) 11.57, Nicola Atherton (AUS) 8.93, Claudia Goncalves (BRA) 5.07, Mizuki Hagiwara (JPN) 3.95 US Open of Surfing Women’s Round of 48 Results: Heat 1: Carissa Moore (HAW) 14.07, Tyler Wright (AUS) 12.93, Pauline Ado (FRA) 11.87, Arini Mason (NZL) 5.93? Heat 2: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 15.34, Paige Hareb (NZL) 9.13, Valaria Sole (PER) 5.50, Gabi Cope (HAW) 3.17? Heat 3: Lakey Peterson (USA) 15.50, Laura Enever (AUS) 11.74, Bruna Schmitz (BRA) 6.26, Natalie Anzavino (USA) 6.06? Heat 4: Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) 10.10, Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) 8.57, Laurina McGrath (AUS) 5.47, Francisca Santos (PRT) 4.43? Heat 5: Felicity Palmateer (AUS) 8.06, Sofia Mulanovich (PER) 7.23, Anastasia Ashley (USA) 3.93, Ornella Pellizzari (ARG) 2.53? Heat 6: Malia Manuel (HAW) 13.84, Jacqueline Silva (BRA) 12.03, Leila Hurst (HAW) 9.93, Jessi Miley-Dyer (AUS) 8.73? Heat 7: Sage Erickson (USA) 11.73, Claire Bevilacqua (AUS) 8.90, Keleigh Gilchrist (USA) 8.53, Nage Melamed (HAW) 5.20Heat 8: Justine Dupont (FRA) 10.00, Chantelle Rautenbach (ZAF) 8.23, Silvana Lima (BRA) 7.47, Joana Rocha (PRT) 2.64? Heat 9: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 12.60, Claudia Goncalves (BRA) 7.73, Freya Prumm (AUS) 7.43, Erica Hosseini (USA) 6.73? Heat 10: Canelle Bulard (REU) 6.16, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 5.17, Lee Ann Curren (FRA) 4.13, Shelby Detmers (USA) 2.86? Heat 11: Nicola Atherton (AUS) 12.00, Karina Petroni (USA) 10.77, Rosanne Hodge (ZAF) 9.40, Leilani Gryde (HAW) 5.94? Heat 12: Mizuki Hagiwara (JPN) 7.93, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 7.26, Bethany Hamilton (HAW) 5.87, Coco Ho (HAW) 4.84 US Open of Surfing Women’s Round of 60 Results: Heat 1: Tyler Wright (AUS) 6.50, Valeria Sole (PER) 6.44, Alessa Quizon (HAW) 5.07, Amy Nicholl (USA) 3.50? Heat 2: Natalie Anvizino (USA) 10.76, Laurina McGrath (AUS) 5.07, Jessica Santorik (NZL) 4.60, Louisa Noble (GBR) 1.64? Heat 3: Felicity Palmateer (AUS) 10.33, Leila Hurst (HAW) 8.14, Bailey Nagy (HAW) 8.07, Amy Stewart (AUS) 4.37? Heat 4: Nage Melamed (HAW) 12.90, Chantelle Rautenbach (ZAF) 8.25, Monyca Byrne-Wickey (HAW) 7.04, Mackenzie Kissler (USA) 0.50? Heat 5: Freya Prumm (AUS) 8.53, Cannelle Bulard (REU) 7.77, Dimity Stoyle (AUS) 7.60, Quincy Davis (USA) 6.27? Heat 6: Karina Petroni (USA) 10.34, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 9.24, Brittani Nicholl (AUS) 7.20, Bo Stanley (USA) 4.13   PICK SIX: TUESDAY Day four action The Men’s ASP Prime event begins tomorrow morning, Aug 3. Women’s Round 4 will start at 8:00 AM, followed directly by the Men’s Main Event at 9:15 AM, where $100,000 is up for grabs. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Women’s 6-Star – Round 4 – Heat 1 Carissa Moore (HAW) Lakey Peterson (USA) Chantelle Rautenbach (ZAF) World Tour standout, Carissa Moore will take on top Junior surfer, Lakey Peterson as well as South Africa’s Chantelle Rautenbach. Two quarterfinal spots are up for grabs. 2. Women’s 6-Star – Round 4 – Heat 2 Laura Enever (AUS) Tyler Wright (AUS) Claire Bevilacqua (AUS) An all-Australian affair – the Round four action will see Laura Enever and Tyler Wright battle against World Tour surfer Claire Bevilacqua. Expect to see a highly competitive heat as a $50,000 first place prize is on the line. 3. Men’s Prime – Round 1 – Heat 5 Cory Lopez (USA) Miguel Pupo (BRA) Torrey Meister (HAW) Tom Curren (USA) The heat-of-the-contest thus far: three-time World Champion Tom Curren takes on former World Tour surfer Cory Lopez, junior standout Miguel Pupo and Hawaiian ripper Torrey Mesiter. 4. Men’s Prime – Round 1 – Heat 12 Yadin Nicol (AUS) Jonathan Gonzales (CNY) Paulo Moura (BRA) Dane Gudauskas (USA) Yadin Nicol, one of the most exciting surfers in the world, is up against local Dane Gudauskas, Paulo Moura and Jonathan Gonzales, who made the trip over from the Canaray Islands. 5. Men’s Prime – Round 1 – Heat 15 Lincoln Taylor (AUS) Julian Wilson (AUS) Kai Barger (HAW) Brent Dorrington (AUS) Julian Wilson, voted to surf in the WPS All-Star event later this week, gets started in the Men’s Prime event. Standing in his way are Kai Barger, Lincoln Taylor and Brent Dorrington. 6. Concert Stage – 4-7 PM – Cold War Kids and Soft Pack The largest free music festival in the world starts Tuesday afternoon with the Soft Pack taking the stage at 4 PM, followed by the Cold War Kids. Come enjoy the free music on the sand at the HB Pier. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as Men’s Round 2 starts Wednesday’s action at 7:30 AM.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41578 Evan Slater Monday, August 2, 2010 Yes, the swell is still here – three-to-five foot with light texture on the surface – but the real news this morning had nothing to do with what was going on in the water. Nike 6.0 kicked in $30,000 to the winner’s prize purse. Already a record setting amount at $20,000, at $50,000 it’s far-and-away the the largest winner’s check in women’s surfing history. Today’s heats are exclusive to the ASP WQS Women’s 6-Star event and will run through Round 3. Round two heats are in the water and heat winners from this morning include Carissa Moore, Courtney Conlogue, Lakey Peterson and Tyler Wright. Check back later tonight for all the photo and video highlights and up-to-date news. Remember to download the FREE US Open of Surfing App from iTunes. With four live streams (the webcast starts Tuesday), photos, videos, and stories, there’s no better way to stay connected on everything US Open-related. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41514 EvanFontaine Monday, August 2, 2010 Hurley’s Curren Caples, the youngest ever competitor at X Games, finished fourth place last night behind Kevin Kowalski, Andy Macdonald and Pedro Barros respectively – a sign we’ll be seeing much more of Curren at X Games in coming years. But if you can’t wait for X Games 2011, make your way down to Huntington Beach this week for the Converse Coastal Carnage skate event, where Curren was runner-up in 2009. Full coverage and schedule of events for the 2010 US Open of Surfing are available at usopenofsurfing.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41513 Evan Slater Monday, August 2, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 1st BRIEF OVERVIEW: South-southwest swell will continue on Monday with chest-head high+ surf, gradually fade on Tuesday and then offer smaller leftovers for the middle part of the week. A new, inconsistent southwest swell will slowly build Friday and looks strongest over the weekend, although smaller than the current swell for Huntington Beach. The mornings will generally offer the best conditions over the next few days, with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Light to moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. MONDAY 2nd SWELL/SURF: Holding SSW swell with 3-5’+ faces and some occasional larger waves. WIND: Light W wind early, with light to moderate WSW to W wind in the afternoon. TUESDAY 3rd SWELL/SURF: Easing SSW swell with 3-4’ occasional 5’ faces. The surf will be strongest in the morning, decreasing in size and consistency for the afternoon. WIND: Light SW wind early, with light to moderate WSW wind in the afternoon. WEDNESDAY 4th SWELL/SURF: Fun size SSW swell leftovers with less consistent 3-4’ faces. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. THURSDAY 5th SWELL/SURF: Mainly leftovers from the SSW with 2-3’+ faces and a few leftover larger sets. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. FRIDAY 6th SWELL/SURF: Mix of leftover SSW swell and slow building, new SW swell for 2-3’ faces in the morning and very occasional 4’ waves developing for the afternoon. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK SSW swell will continue Monday: Chest to head high sets can be expected through the day, even larger at times and running slightly overhead. Slow fading surf will take over on Tuesday with smaller, fun size leftovers on Wednesday. A further decrease in surf is expected on Thursday. For the last couple days of the contest holding period a new SW swell will build in from a storm that was recently near New Zealand. At this point we’re expecting a gradual rise in size through the day on Friday the 6th, with the largest surf from this swell for the weekend of the 7th-8th. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we’re expecting very inconsistent waist-chest to maybe shoulder high sets over the weekend of the 7th-8th. We’ll have further details on that in the next couple days. We also continue to keep an eye on the tropics, although things look fairly slow in that region at the moment. Our wind/weather outlook remains unchanged: early morning wind will range from light/variable to light onshore, with a little morning sickness possible, but overall pretty smooth. Afternoon onshore WSW to W wind will be light to moderate in speed. Next update by: Monday evening, August 2nd http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41512 EvanFontaine Monday, August 2, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California (Sunday, August 1, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) PRIME US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley and Nike 6.0 saw its first glimpse of action today with veteran campaigners mixing with young talent to march through the event’s trials while top seeds hit the water in ASP Grade-2 Pro Junior action. Surfers competing in the ASP PRIME US Open of Surfing are out to establish themselves as the globe’s finest talent on the ASP World Ranking while ASP Pro Junior competitors are looking to find their way atop their regional ratings to qualify for the ASP World Junior Tour. Luke Davis (Capistrano Beach, CA), 17, put in an impressive performance today to advance into the US Open of Surfing main event after taking out his Round of 32 ASP Pro Junior heat. The young Californian defeated former ASP Dream Tour surfer Ben Bourgeois (Wrightsville Beach, NC), 31, and progressive standout Clay Marzo (Maui, HI), 21, in the trials to advance through to the Round of 128 of the men’s main event. “I feel really good,” Davis said. “It was a long day and that last heat was really hard. I’m just stoked that those waves came through at the end and I won my Pro Junior heat as well, so it’s been a pretty good day.” Davis, who is a constant standout on the ASP Pro Junior rankings, is hungry to capitalize on the priceless ratings points on offer at this year’s ASP PRIME event to help his ASP World Ranking. “I did on major event last year, but didn’t do well so hopefully I can do well out here,” Davis said. “Getting into this event is definitely good for me. I want to start doing more events to help my World Ranking, especially next year.” Kolohe Andino (San Clemente, CA), 16, started strong in his Round of 32 ASP Grade-2 US Open Junior Pro presented by PacSun heat by smashing one of the highest single wave scores of the day with a variety of carves and tail drifting turns to the tune of an 8.33 out of 10 to take out his stacked opening round heat over current ASP North America Pro Junior Series ratings leader Evan Geiselman (New Smyrna Beach, FL), 16, who advanced behind Andino in second.??“I saw that I had Evan (Geiselman) in my heat and I was kind of worried because he’s been ripping and he’s been beating me lately too,” Andino said. “People say that we’re rivals, but we’re actually best friends too. I just wanted to get a really quick start because I was really nervous. I got one and started getting it going so that was nice.” Andino, who is currently sitting in the No. 3 position on the ASP North America Pro Junior Series, is in a comfortable position to qualify for the ASP World Junior Tour with his combined effort on the ASP Men’s World Ranking and feels his solid standing has relieved a great deal of pressure entering the US Open Junior Pro. “I’m pretty comfortable with where I’m sitting in the ratings, so I’m feeling pretty confident,” Andino said. “I’m not worried about making World’s like some of the other kids because this is the last event. Being comfortable and being calm is a huge thing, so I feel good. Also, I have two new boards that work amazing so I’m stoked.” Finalists were decided today as well for the women’s ASP Grade-2 US Open Junior Pro presented by PacSun with reigning ASP World Junior Champion Laura Enever (AUS), 18, current ASP Women’s World Tour campaigner Coco Ho (North Shore, HI), 19, defending event champion Malia Manuel (Kauai, HI), 16, and Californian Sage Erickson (Ventura, CA), 19, all earning the right to battle for this year’s title. Day Two at the US Open of Surfing wasn’t all about the action in the water. The walkways were overflowing and the booths saw lines stretching down the beach for chances at giveaways from Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse. The Nike 6.0 Art Wall was given a fresh look courtesy of Prefab77 before portions will be cut out and turned into furniture. Also, the Nike 6.0 Motel No-Tell screened the classic surf film, Pacific Vibrations. With solid swell forecasted and new events getting underway, HB is the place to be this next week. The 14-acre US Open venue is headlined by the one-of-a-kind, 20,000 square foot Action Sports’ retail and brand experience. On Day One it was already clear U.S. Open spectators were enjoying an interactive festival featuring more than 100 exhibits, autograph signings, DJs, guest emcees and prize giveaways. Top national acts will perform live on the concert stage Tuesday through Saturday, August 3 to 7. The lineup includes Cold War Kids, Bedouin Soundclash, Switchfoot, Cobra Starship and Weezer among other acts. Tomorrow’s action will see the ASP 6-Star Women’s US Open of Surfing take to the water at 7:30am local time. The US Open of Surfing runs from July 31 through August 8, 2010 and will begin LIVE webcast on Tuesday, August 3 via usopenofsurfing.com. For complimentary high-res photos and video downloads log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org.   US Open of Surfing Trials Round of 132 Results: Heat 1: Ola Eleogram (HAW) 9.63, Luke Davis (USA) 7.43, Richard Christie (NZL) 4.60, Jason Shibata (HAW) 3.10? Heat 2: Tomas Hermes (BRA) 15.84, Mike Losness (USA) 10.93, Ricky Whitlock (USA) 10.47, Kyle Knox (USA) 4.50 US Open of Surfing Trials Round of 140 Results: Heat 1: Olamana Eleogram (HAW) 12.50, Richard Christie (NZL) 11.66, Sterling Spencer (USA) 6.00, Matt Pagan (USA) 5.73? Heat 2: Luke Davis (USA) 12.36, Jason Shibata (HAW) 8.90, Makuakai Rothman (HAW) 7.20, Clay Marzo (HAW) 1.56 Heat 3: Kyle Knox (USA) 16.33, Mike Losness (USA) 14.10, Hank Gaskell (HAW) 10.07, Anthony Petruso (USA) 10.04 Heat 4: Tomas Hermes (BRA) 11.40, Ricky Whitlock (USA) 10.66, Jano Belo (BRA) 9.56, Dylan Southworth (MEX) 6.90 US Open of Surfing Trials Round of 156: Heat 1: Sterling Spencer (USA) 11.17, Clay Marzo (HAW) 9.43, Gustavo Fernandez (BRA) 7.43, Jay Davies (AUS) 7.24 Heat 2: Olamana Eleogram (HAW) 13.87, Luke Davis (USA) 11.73, Ben Bourgeois (USA) 11.66, Ryah Arthur (USA) 9.17 Heat 3: Jason Shbata (HAW) 10.50, Matt Pagan (USA) 8.86, Kevin Sullivan (HAW) 8.27, Chad Compton (USA) 6.80? Heat 4: Makuakai Rothman (HAW) 11.10, Richard Christie (NZL) 9.64, Jesse Heilman (USA) 8.47, Angelo Lozano (MEX) 7.60? Heat 5: Kyle Knox (USA) 12.16, Jano Balo (BRA) 11.06, Jason Harris (USA) 10.66, Gavin Gillette (HAW) 4.27? Heat 6: Mike Losness (USA) 12.83, Dylan Southworth (MEX) 10.74, Casey Brown (HAW) 9.56, Bruno Rodrigues (BRA) 5.94? Heat 7: Ricky Whitlock (USA) 11.26, Anthony Petruso (USA) 10.20, Teppei Tajima (JPN) 9.27, Andrew Doheny (USA) 8.84? Heat 8: Tomas Hermes (BRA) 12.00, Hank Gaskell (HAW) 11.67, Brent Reilly (USA) 6.77, Darrell Goodrum (USA) 6.73 US Open Junior Pro Round of 32 Results: Heat 1: Nat Young (USA) 12.37, Cooper Chapman (AUS) 10.67, Tanner Hendrickson (HAW) 10.43, Alex Smith (HAW) 8.20? Heat 2: Kolohe Andino (USA) 13.83, Evan Geiselman (USA) 9.93, Kealamakia Naihe (HAW) 5.87, Taylor Clark (USA) 2.50? Heat 3: Kiron Jabour (HAW) 11.50, John John Florence (HAW) 7.84, Brent Reilly (USA) 7.60, Klye McGeary (USA) 5.13? Heat 4: Andrew Doheny (USA) 12.33, Ian Crane (USA) 9.40, Colton Larson (USA) 9.07, Dege O’Connell (HAW) 8.83? Heat 5:Granger Larsen (HAW) 14.76, Alejo Muniz (BRA) 14.33, Quinn McCrystal (USA) 13.76, Keanu Asing (HAW) 4.00? Heat 6: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 13.34, Fisher Heverly (USA) 11.13, Michael Dunphy (USA) 7.93, Conner Coffin (USA) 7.10? Heat 7: Jacob Halstead (USA) 11.76, Evan Thompson (USA) 10.50, Albee Layer (HAW) 8.87, Kaimana Jaquias (HAW) 5.00? Heat 8: Luke Davis (USA) 14.34, Chase Wilson (USA) 13.40, Victor Done (USA) 8.43, Taylor Brothers (USA) 5.90 US Open Junior Pro Women’s Semifinals Results: Heat 1: Malia Manuel (HAW) 13.00, Sage Erickson (USA) 10.43, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 10.43, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 3.44? Heat 2: Coco Ho (HAW) 15.10, Laura Enever (AUS) 14.70, Courtney Conlogue (USA) 13.73, Carissa Moore (HAW) 11.10   PICK SIX: MONDAY Day three’s must-see action The Womens 6-Star event will open Day 2 action at US Open of Surfing tomorrow, Aug 2. The Women start at 8:00 AM and will run all the way through Round three of competition. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Women’s 6-Star – Round 2 – Heat 3 Bruna Schmitz (BRA) Laura Enever (AUS) Lakey Peterson (USA) TBD World tour staple, Bruna Schmitz, will look to fend off top Juniors, Laura Enever and Lakey Peterson. 2. Women’s 6-Star – Round 2 – Heat 4 Stephanie Gilmore (AUS) Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) Francisca Santos (PRT) TBD Current World Tour Rankings leader and three-time defending ASP Champion, Stephanie Gilmore begins her US Open campaign. 3. Women’s 6-Star – Round 2 – Heat 9 Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) Erica Hosseini (USA) Claudia Goncalves (BRA) TBD Sally Fitzgibbons – currently ranked number two on the ASP World Tour – surfs against Socal local Erica Hosseini and Brazilian Claudia Goncalves. 4. Women’s 6-Star – Round 2 – Heat 10 Lee Ann Curren (FRA) Alana Blanchard (HAW) Shelby Detmers (USA) TBD Lee Ann tries to follow in her father’s footsteps to claim a US Open Title of her own. Alana and Shelby will make that a daunting task. 5. Women’s 6_Star – Round 2 – Heat 12 Coco Ho (HAW) Bethany Hamilton (HAW) Mizuki Hagiwara (JPN) TBD Hawaiian standouts Coco and Bethany begin their US Open campaign against Japanese surfer Mizuki Hagiwara, who made the hop across the Pacific for this year’s US Open. 6. Melali Premiere – 7:00 PM, Nike 6.0 Motel No-Tell This new masterpiece – created from The Drifter’s unused footage – showcases Rob and friends surfing some great waves throughout the Indonesian Islands.   Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as Women’s Round 4 heats start Tuesday’s action at 8:00 AM before the Men’s opening Round 1 heats of the ASP Prime event.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41465 Evan Slater Sunday, August 1, 2010 Saturday night Bob completed the podium trifecta at X Games 16. The gold medal joins his silver and bronze from Big Air and Vert Best Trick, respectively. Bob threw down a ridiculous final move – a 50/50 to body varial. Click here to check it out. Bob will join fellow Hurley team rider Curren Caples in the Skateboard Park competition tonight, starting at 5:30 PM. At 14-years-old, Curren is the youngest competitor in X Games history. Stay tuned for results and make sure to come down and watch Curren at the US Open of Surfing when the Converse Coastal Carnage event starts Saturday, August 7. For more info check out xgames.com and usopenofsurfing.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41463 Evan Slater Sunday, August 1, 2010 In 1954, Hobie Alter opened the world's first surf shop in Dana Point. On Saturday, July 31, Hobie opened its newest shop in Corona Del Mar. The Grand Opening event featured music by DJ Peanut Butter Wolf, food from the World Famous Kogi Truck and a number of Hurley family members including Rob, Ace, Yadin and Timmy. As a Hurley partner, the CDM shop "will feature an elevated presence of Hurley product in the store," Hobie President Mark Christy said. Check the gallery for photos from the grand opening party. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41462 Evan Slater Sunday, August 1, 2010 2010 US OPEN OF SURFING FORECAST, SATURDAY AFTERNOON, JULY 31st BRIEF OVERVIEW: New south-southwest swell will build through the day on Sunday, hold Monday, and then ease through mid next week, offering fun size surf. Mornings will generally offer the best conditions over the next few days, with the lightest wind and smoothest surface conditions. Light to moderate onshore flow will build in the afternoons. SUNDAY 1st SWELL/SURF: New SSW swell building; a little slow early but picking up with 3-4’ faces in the morning and occasional larger 5’ sets over the afternoon (up to waist to head high late in the day). WIND: Light/variable to very light onshore SW wind in the morning. Light to moderate WSW wind builds for the afternoon. MONDAY 2nd SWELL/SURF: Holding SSW swell with 3-4-5’ faces. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate WSW to W wind in the afternoon. TUESDAY 3rd SWELL/SURF: Easing SSW swell with 3-4’ occasional 5’ faces. The surf will be strongest in the morning, decreasing in size and consistency for the afternoon. WIND: Light SW wind early, with light to moderate WSW wind in the afternoon. WEDNESDAY 4th SWELL/SURF: Fun size SSW swell leftovers with less consistent 2-4’ faces. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. THURSDAY 5th SWELL/SURF: Mainly leftovers from the SSW with 2-3’+ faces and a few leftover larger sets. WIND: Light SW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK New, longer period SSW swell will build in on Sunday and continue Monday, before gradually starting to come down on Tuesday. Sunday morning starts off a little slow, but will be building with inconsistent 3-4’ faces. Larger sets to 5’ (around head high) will fill in for the afternoon. The surf will hang in the 3-4’ occasional 5’ range Monday and Tuesday. Smaller, fun size leftovers are expected on Wednesday, with a further decrease in surf on Thursday. For the last couple days of the contest holding period we’ll be watching for a new SW swell to build in from a storm that was recently near New Zealand. At this point we’re expecting a gradual rise in size through the day on Friday the 6th and with the largest surf for the weekend of the 7th-8th. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we’re expecting very inconsistent waist-chest to maybe shoulder high sets over the weekend of the 7th-8th. We’ll have further details on that in the next couple days. We also continue to keep an eye on the tropics, although things look fairly slow in that region at the moment. There is no major change to our wind/weather outlook. Early morning wind will be light/variable to light onshore, with a little morning sickness possible, but overall pretty smooth. Afternoon onshore SW to W wind will be light to moderate in speed. Next Update by: Sunday evening, August 1st http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41445 EvanFontaine Sunday, August 1, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California (Saturday, July 31, 2010) – The Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) US Open Junior Pro presented by Pacsun kicked off the nine-day marathon event at South Huntington Beach Pier by cutting the men’s ASP Pro Junior field in half from 64 surfers to 32 with Tanner Hendrickson (Maui, HI), 18, and Miguel Pupo (Sao Paulo, BRA), 18, posting the day’s top scores while Laura Enever led the women’s US Open Junior Pro Presented by Pacsun action as the Semifinalists were decided in two-to-three foot (1 metre) surf. Surfers competing on the ASP North America Pro Junior Series are out to finish within the top of the ratings in an attempt to qualify for the inaugural ASP World Junior Tour. Hendrickson patiently navigated through the inconsistent conditions to pick off one of the day’s best waves while matching the event’s highest single wave score, an 8.67 out of 10, on the way to posting the day’s highest heat total, a solid 15.54 out of 20. “I’m stoked with my heats this morning,” Hendrickson said. “I was in that heat with my good friend Keala (Naihe) and we were just splitting peaks and having fun. There’s a good bank out there and once the swell picks up I think it’s going to be a really good contest.” With an increase in swell expected to fill in throughout the evening, the young Hawaiian is hungry to do battle with the event’s top seeds in improved conditions. “I’m stoked to go against the top seeds, especially in good conditions,” Hendrickson said. “I’m just looking to try my best and hopefully get some good waves. As long as everyone is getting good waves, there’s nothing much you can really ask for.” Pupo relied on impressive rail-turns and new-school rotations to share the highest single-wave score of the day with Hendrickson and the Brazilian native looked comfortable in Huntington’s tricky beachbreak conditions while taking out two convincing heat victories today. “Huntington is pretty good,” Pupo said. “I’ve been coming here for five years so it’s like home for me.” Pupo, who is also competing in the Men’s ASP PRIME event, is hoping that his early round ASP Pro Junior success will help him build momentum before tackling some of the globe’s finest in an attempt to climb the ladder on the ASP World Ranking. “I’m doing the PRIME event next week,” Pupo said. “Hopefully I can get a good result to help climb the ratings. It’s great to do this event first to get a feel for conditions and to get comfortable on your board.” Malia Manuel (Wailua, HI), 16, who is the defending US Open Junior Pro Champion and the youngest ever winner of the Women’s ASP 6-Star event at 14, started strong in her opening heat to advance through to the Semifinals despite not competing in a contest for several months. “I’m very happy to get that first heat out of the way,” Manuel said. “I haven’t surfed a contest since the last Pro Junior in March, so it’s good to get that first one under my belt after the break and I’m looking forward to the whole week. I’m just happy to be doing more contests.” Day One at the US Open of Surfing wasn’t all about the action in the water. By all accounts, this was by far the busiest Day One in 16-year history of the event. “It looks like a new city just popped up right on the sand,” said Conner Coffin, who made it through his Round Two heat. “It’s awesome. It feels seems more like the final weekend than the opening day of the event.” The walkways were overflowing and the booths saw lines stretching down the beach for chances at giveaways from Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse. HB is the place to be this next week. The 14-acre US Open venue is headlined by the one-of-a-kind, 20,000 square foot Action Sports’ retail and brand experience. On Day One it was already clear U.S. Open spectators were enjoying an interactive festival featuring more than 100 exhibits, autograph signings, DJs, guest emcees and prize giveaways. Top national acts will perform live on the concert stage Tuesday through Saturday, August 3 to 7. The lineup includes Cold War Kids, Bedouin Soundclash, Switchfoot, Cobra Starship and Weezer among other acts. Open to the public free-of-charge, the U.S. Open of Surfing runs through Sunday, August 8. Live webcast and consumer information is available at usopenofsurfing.com. Tomorrow’s US Open of Surfing action will continue with ASP Pro Junior competition and will begin with the Men’s Round of 32 before concluding the day with the Women’s Semifinals. For complimentary high-res images and video log on to usopenofsurfing.com/downloads. For additional ASP information log on to www.aspworldtour.com or aspnorthamerica.org. US Open Junior Pro Round of 48 Results: Heat 1: Taylor Clark (USA) 10.23, Alex Smith (HAW) 9.26, Oliver Kurtz (USA) 8.83 Heat 2: Tanner Hendrickson (USA) 15.54, Kealamakia Naihe (HAW) 7.94, Nic Hdez (USA) 3.17 Heat 3: Ian Crane (USA) 13.87, Kyle McGeary (USA) 12.24, Derek Peters (USA) 10.94 Heat 4: John Florence (HAW) 6.27, Colton Larson (USA) 5.34, Balaram Stack (USA) 5.33 Heat 5: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 14.54, Taylor Clark (USA) 10.23, Alex Smith (USA) 9.26 Heat 6: Alejo Muniz (BRA) 13.83, Conner Coffin (USA) 13.54, Dane Zaun (USA) 3.10 Heat 7: Tayler Brothers (USA) 9.10, Kaimana Jaquias (HAW) 8.64, Makai McNamara (HAW) 6.74 Heat 8: Jacob Halstead (USA) 13.17, Victor Done (USA) 9.83, Tyler Newton (HAW) 9.83 US Open Junior Pro Round of 64 Results: Heat 1: Oliver Kurtz (USA) 8.94, Kealamakia Naihe (HAW) 7.94, Nathan Carvalho (HAW) 7.70, Keto Burns (USA) 7.26 Heat 2: Alex Smith (HAW) 14.17, Nic Hdez (USA) 8.67, Billy Hopkins (USA) 8.37, Chase Brady (USA) 7.13 Heat 3: Tanner Hendrickson (HAW) 10.60, Taylor Clark (USA) 7.26, Christian Saenz (USA) 6.67, Ryan Croteaux (USA) 5.20? Heat 4: Derek Peters (USA) 8.84, Colton Larson (USA) 6.43, Chris Salisbury (AUS) 6.23, Levi Gonzales (HAW) 4.67 Heat 5: Ian Crane (USA) 9.47, John John Florence (HAW) 8.40, Nick Rupp (USA) 7.53, Kyle Galloway (ZAF) 4.57 Heat 6: Balaram Stack (USA) 8.50, Kyle McGeary (USA) 7.66, Kalani David (USA) 7.00, Austin Rowe (USA) 3.37 Heat 7: Miguel Pupo (BRA) 15.40, Dane Zaun (USA) 12.17, Antoine Allain (USA) 8.56, Jared Thorne (USA) 7.76 Heat 8: Granger Larsen (HAW) 13.90, Conner Coffin (USA) 11.07, Dylan Kowalski (USA) 8.24, Masato Yukawa (JPN) 7.67 Heat 9: Alejo Muniz (BRA) 13.77, Gabe Garcia (USA) 12.84, Mitch Crews (AUS) 9.60, J.D. Lewis (USA) 8.48 Heat 10: Tayler Brothers (USA) 10.33, Victor Done (USA) 6.92, Doug Van Mierlo (USA) 6.27, Colton Sarlo (USA) 5.00 Heat 11: Makai McNamara (HAW) 10.60, Jacob Halstead (USA) 8.60, Shaw Kobayashi (USA) 6.77, Taylor Thorne (USA) 6.66 Heat 12: Tyler Newton (HAW) 13.50, Kaimana Jaquias (HAW) 12.00, Dylan Goodale (HAW) 9.37, Billy Kemper (USA) 4.53 US Open Junior Pro Women’s Quarterfinals Results: Heat 1: Malia Manuel (HAW) 13.03, Alana Blanchard (HAW) 11.77, Justine Dupont (FRA) 9.30, Haley Watson (USA) 2.77 Heat 2: Sage Erickson (USA) 7.06, Sarah Baum (ZAF) 6.80, Taylor Pitz (USA) 4.40, Alexia Jeri (PER) 4.17 Heat 3: Laura Enever (AUS) 14.93, Coco Ho (HAW) 10.50, Lakey Peterson (USA) 8.13, Jasset Umbel (USA) 4.64 Heat 4: Courtney Conlogue (USA) 13.40, Carissa Moore (HAW) 11.36, Sarah Taylor (USA) 4.10, Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) 0   PICK SIX: SUNDAY Six heats you cannot miss The Men’s Pro Junior and Men’s Trials open Day 2 action at US Open of Surfing tomorrow, Aug 1. The top seeded Juniors get first crack at peaky HB surf starting at 8:00 AM. The stacked Men’s Trials heats take to the water at 11:AM followed by the Women’s Pro Junior semifinals, which close out the day. 1. Men’s Pro Junior – Round 3 – Heat 2 Kolohe Andino (USA) Evan Geiselman (USA) Taylor Clark (USA) Naihe Kealamakia (HAW) It might be a Juniors event, but this heat is a heavyweight showdown between good friends and top-ranked USA Junior surfers Kolohe Andino and Evan Geiselman. They square off against an on fire Taylor Clark, who won his Round 2 heat, and Hawaiian Naihe Kealamakia. 2. Men’s Pro Junior – Round 3 – Heat 4 Andrew Doheny (USA) Dege O’Connell (HAW) Ian Crane (USA) Colton Larson (USA) Fresh off the Nike 6.0 Lowers Pro Junior victory, Andrew Doheny looks to keep his streak alive. He’s up against Dege O’Connell, Ian Crane and Colton Larson. 3. Men’s Trials – Round 1 – Heat 1 Gustavo Fernandes (BRA) Clay Marzo (HAW) Jay Davies (AUS) Sterling Spencer (USA) Arguably one of the best surfers on the world, Clay Marzo opens up his US Open campaign against shredder-comedian-centaur Sterling Spencer, Australian Jay Davies and Brazilian Gustavo Fernandes. 4. Men’s Trials – Round 1 – Heat 2 Ola Eleogram (HAW) Ryah Arthur (USA) Luke Davis (USA) Ben Bourgeois (USA) Former World Tour surfer Ben Bourgeois will try and fend off young guns Luke Davis and Ryah Arthur as well as Maui ripper, Ola Eleogram. 5. Men’s Trials – Round 1 – Heat 7 Teppei Tajima (JPN) Anthony Petruso (USA) Ricky Whitlock (USA) Andrew Doheny (USA) Socal locals, Anthony Petruso, Ricky Whitlock and Andrew Doheny join lone Japanese surfer Teppei Tajima in their Round 1 match up. 6. Women’s Pro Junior – Semi 2 Laura Enever (AUS) Coco Ho (HAW) Courtney Conlogue (USA) Carissa Moore (HAW) Clash of the titans. The biggest heat of the event so far. Three World Tour surfers will battle it out against Junior standout and defending US Open Champion, Courtney Conlogue.   Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as the Women’s 6-Star Event kicks off Monday’s action.   About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. hurley.com. About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. nike6.com. About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41420 Evan Slater Saturday, July 31, 2010 The Junior Mens and Womens events kick off the US Open of Surfing today, July 31. There’s guaranteed to be action in every heat, but there are some heats you just can’t miss. The Mens Pro Junior will take to the water at 8:00 AM and will finish up its Round 2 heats before the Womens Pro Junior gets started in the afternoon. 1. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #3 Christian Saenz (USA) Tanner Hendrickson (HAW) Kyle Galtes (HAW) Taylor Clark (USA) Hurley’s Christian Saenz – Huntington Beach born and raised – will look to utilize local knowledge over NSSA standout Tanner Hendrickson, Hawaiian Kyle Gates and USA team rider Taylor Clark. 2. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #5 Nick Rupp (USA) Ian Crane (USA) John John Florence (HAW) Kyle Galloway (ZAF) John John Florence – once child prodigy, and now emerging surf star – gets in on the action for the Mens Pro Junior. John John will have to bring his A game if he hopes to make it through Round 1 of competition as he squares off against East Coast ripper Nick Rupp, South African Kyle Galloway and young up and comer Ian Crane. 3. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #6 Balaram Stack (USA) Ian Gentil (HAW) Kalani David (HAW) Kyle McGeary (USA) Ian Gentil and11-year-old Kalani David both have multiple NSSA Championships to their names and look to add a Pro Junior victory to their resumes at the US Open of Surfing. Standing in their way are Balaram Stack and Kyle McGeary. 4. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #8 Conner Coffin (USA) Dylan Kowalski (USA) Granger Larsen (HAW) Masato Yukawa (JPN) The lone Japanese surfer in the field, Masato Yukawa has his work cut out for him as he takes on powerhouses Conner Coffin, Dylan Kowalksi and Granger Larsen. 5. Womens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #3 Coco Ho (HAW) Jasset Umbel (USA) Lakey Peterson (USA) Laura Enever (AUS) Junior standout Lakey Peterson squares off against World Tour surfers Coco Ho and Laura Enever. Expect Lakey to reach into her bag of tricks to prove she can surf at the elite level. 6. Womens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #4 Courtney Conlogue (USA) Carissa Moore (HAW) Sara Taylor (USA) Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) The defending US Open of Surfing Womens Champion, Courtney Conlogue, looks to get off on the right foot in her Round 1 Pro Junior heat. The road to a Junior Pro victory won’t be a walk in the park as she faces World Tour surfer Carissa Moore.   Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as the Mens Trials kick off Sunday. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41386 Evan Slater Saturday, July 31, 2010 The Junior Mens and Womens events will kick off the US Open of Surfing tomorrow, July 31. There’s guaranteed to be action in every heat, but there are some heats you just can’t miss. The Mens Pro Junior will take to the water at 8:00 AM and will finish up its Round 2 heats before the Womens Pro Junior gets started in the afternoon. 1. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #3 Christian Saenz (USA) Tanner Hendrickson (HAW) Kyle Galtes (HAW) Taylor Clark (USA) Hurley’s Christian Saenz – Huntington Beach born and raised – will look to utilize local knowledge over NSSA standout Tanner Hendrickson, Hawaiian Kyle Gates and USA team rider Taylor Clark. 2. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #5 Nick Rupp (USA) Ian Crane (USA) John John Florence (HAW) Kyle Galloway (ZAF) John John Florence – once child prodigy, and now emerging surf star – gets in on the action for the Mens Pro Junior. John John will have to bring his A game if he hopes to make it through Round 1 of competition as he squares off against East Coast ripper Nick Rupp, South African Kyle Galloway and young up and comer Ian Crane. 3. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #6 Balaram Stack (USA) Ian Gentil (HAW) Kalani David (HAW) Kyle McGeary (USA) Ian Gentil and11-year-old Kalani David both have multiple NSSA Championships to their names and look to add a Pro Junior victory to their resumes at the US Open of Surfing. Standing in their way are Balaram Stack and Kyle McGeary. 4. Mens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #8 Conner Coffin (USA) Dylan Kowalski (USA) Granger Larsen (HAW) Masato Yukawa (JPN) The lone Japanese surfer in the field, Masato Yukawa has his work cut out for him as he takes on powerhouses Conner Coffin, Dylan Kowalksi and Granger Larsen. 5. Womens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #3 Coco Ho (HAW) Jasset Umbel (USA) Lakey Peterson (USA) Laura Enever (AUS) Junior standout Lakey Peterson squares off against World Tour surfers Coco Ho and Laura Enever. Expect Lakey to reach into her bag of tricks to prove she can surf at the elite level. 6. Womens Pro Junior – Round 1 – Heat #4 Courtney Conlogue (USA) Carissa Moore (HAW) Sara Taylor (USA) Sayuri Hashimoto (JPN) The defending US Open of Surfing Womens Champion, Courtney Conlogue, looks to get off on the right foot in her Round 1 Pro Junior heat. The road to a Junior Pro victory won’t be a walk in the park as she faces World Tour surfer Carissa Moore.   Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Pick Six as the Mens Trials kick off Sunday. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41385 Evan Slater Friday, July 30, 2010 They say it's not a fashion show. But come on, it kind of is. And on the opening night of X Games 16, Bob Burnquist's look was nothing if not fashion forward. If you didn't catch it on prime time, Bob lost to Aussie Jake Brown in Skate Big Air for the second year in a row. He just missed landing a 900 on his final run which would have virtually clinched the win for him, and fell short of the gold by 0.66. But as much attention as Bob might have grabbed for his neck-and-neck race for the gold with Brown, his built-for-Hollywood entrance might have turned just as many heads. Using Bob as its model and the Big Air venue as its runway, Hurley unveiled its new Hurley/Tron Collaboration line -- due out in stores on November 15th, 2010, a month before the new movie drops on December 12th. Bob skates again tomorrow, along with fellow Hurley family member 14-year-old Curren Caples, in the Men's Skate Park portion of the contest, airing on ESPN and ESPN3.com, from 2-5pm. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41367 EvanFontaine Thursday, July 29, 2010 Headquartered across the street from the Huntington Beach Pier, there’s not a surf forecasting service on the planet that has a better handle on the idiosyncrasies of the waves on the south side of the pier than Surfline. That aside, they’re still hands down the best at what they do, making them the perfect partner for the US Open of Surfing. For the next 12 days, Sean Collins and his team of forecasting specialists will be hard at work, providing the most up-to-date, comprehensive swell projections during the contest window. This is the official US Open forecast, for Thursday, July 28th, 2010: A series of southerly swells will move in throughout much of the event, keeping the waves fun and very contestable on the south side of the HB Pier. SATURDAY 31st SWELL/SURF: Mainly old SSW swell leftovers with 2-3’, occasional 4’ faces (waist to occasional chest high) surf. WIND: Light/variable to very light onshore SW/W wind in the morning. Onshore westerly flow builds to moderate levels in the afternoon. SUNDAY 1st SWELL/SURF: New SSW swell building with 3-4’+ faces and occasional. larger 5’ sets developing through the day (waist to head high). WIND: Possible light S wind early, becoming light to moderate SW to WSW in the afternoon. MONDAY 2nd SWELL/SURF: Holding SSW swell with 3-5’ faces and some possible larger sets. WIND: Light WSW wind early, with moderate W wind in the afternoon. SURF/WEATHER SUMMARY AND LONG RANGE OUTLOOK For the first day of the contest holding period, Saturday the 31st, we’ll see mainly the tail end of a SSW swell that had peaked earlier in the week. That leftover swell will be good for waist to occasional chest high waves. A new and larger SSW swell will build in on Sunday and continue Monday, thanks to a recent storm in the central South Pacific. We’re tracking this swell through the South Pacific at the moment and it continues to look good for waist-head high waves over the afternoon on Sunday and through Monday. A slow fading trend will then take over Tue/Wed, with smaller but still very contestable waist-chest-shoulder high surf. We’ll also keep an eye on the tropics, as longer range charts indicate we’ll have a new disturbance possibly develop into a tropical depression or storm late this weekend/early next week. A lot of things need to fall into line for us to get southerly swell from it but, if we do, it would likely be around the 5th-6th of August. A long shot, but worth watching. For the last couple days of the contest holding period we’ll be watching for a new SW swell to build in; gradually filling in Friday the 6th and then best for the weekend of the 7th-8th. This westerly SW swell will be partially blocked/shadowed by Catalina and San Clemente Islands, so we’re expecting inconsistent waist-shoulder high sets over the weekend of the 7th-8th, and possibly slightly better. The storm creating this swell is just now finishing up, so we’ll have more concrete details in the next few days as we watch hoe much swell is actually moving toward us. Wind/weather wise, it looks like we’ll see similar conditions to what we have been seeing lately for much of the contest. Early morning wind will be light/variable to li ght onshore, with some possible morning sickness. Afternoon W wind will build to moderate levels. The exception could be Sunday and possibly Monday, when a weak coastal eddy develops and sets up light S wind early and lighter SW/WSW wind in the afternoon. We’ll be watching the charts/models for that possibility and keep you posted. Next Update by: Thursday evening, July 29th http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41365 EvanFontaine Thursday, July 29, 2010 Converse Coastal Carnage, an invite- only pro/am skate contest consisting of more than 30 A-list skateboarders, returns to Huntington Beach this year, anchored against the backdrop of the US Open of Surfing. Converse Coastal Carnage continues in its second year as the skate component to the weeklong celebration of the world’s top action sports athletes. The contest is free to the public and runs Friday August 6th through Sunday, August 8th. Coastal Carnage 2010 is taken to the next level, from every angle. The course, a double bowl with plenty of hips and tight corners, is twice as large this year and incorporates a new vert section that’s guaranteed to keep every competitor on their toes. The stakes are also at an increased high, not only on the challenging course, but also with this year’s prize purse, with a total pot of $75,000. The jam format is broken up into 10 qualifying rounds that pit 4 riders against each other simultaneously. Because Converse Coastal Carnage is a pro/am event, the most experienced professionals like Lance Mountain and Kenny Anderson will be seen battling it out alongside today’s up and coming ams like Tommy Remillard, Curren Caples and Grant Taylor. Coastal Carnage is truly a test of endurance and will, and last year proved it’s anyone’s contest. Another feature new to Converse Coastal Carnage this year is the Converse Skate Pavilion, a public mini-bowl, located directly in front of the main course. Anyone with a board is welcome not only to skate, but also to try out the latest Converse product, free, throughout the entire first week of August. The public skate pavilion allows for skate fans to test shoes, skate for free, and become an active part of the week’s festivities. “Everyone who skated in last year’s contest had a good time and skated amazingly because the vibe on the beach was just incredible. We’ve put a lot more into the contest this year overall, in ways that we know will get the crowds and everyone in the contest hyped up,” says Converse Skateboarding Brand director Steve Luther. For more information visit: usopenofsurfing.com for contest times, rider profiles, photos, video and more. This year's Coastal Carnage bowl - bigger and better About Converse Converse Inc., based in N. Andover, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 43 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at converse.com.   Press Contacts: Sharon Bayron Converse 949-554-2250 / sharon.bayron@converse.com Jason Thome Converse 646-563-7488 / jason.thome@converse.com Keith Gulla Converse 646-563-7318 / keith.gulla@converse.com http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41364 Evan Slater Thursday, July 29, 2010 Donnie Miller wins his second Microphone for Youth t-shirt design contest in a row. The unique Poseidon design ended up taking the win over many others. Donnie fills us in on how he came up with the idea, why there was so little clothing involved and if he plans on going for the three-peat. The winning design will be available for purchase at the customization station all next week at the US Open. Be sure to make your way down to the HB Pier to check out Donnie's winning design and the other events taking place at the 2010 US Open of Surfing. Donnie Miller: The task as I saw it was to make a design that's fully compatible with the existing US Open logo. It should be as simple and emblematic as possible, and add special new meaning to the surfer in the circle image. I did my best, and I think the goal was achieved. Poseidon obviously must be the host of the event! It's his turf after all. He’s wearing so little clothing because he's waiting to buy a US Open outfit at the beach. I wish I could talk to the people buying the shirts and ask their opinions about it, but I'm afraid some of the kids are taught not to talk to strangers, unless our mutual friend Hurley introduces us! And I unfortunately won’t be entering a design into this next round of Microphone for Youth. But maybe I’ll go for the three-peat sometime in the future.   The top three designs from the US Open MFY T-Shirt Design Contest  Submit your new designs for Hurley’s next MFY T-Shirt Design Contest here. Theme for this round’s design: anything goes. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41362 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Donnie Miller wins his second Microphone for Youth t-shirt design contest in a row. The unique Poseidon design ended up taking the win over many others. Donnie fills us in on how he came up with the idea, why there was so little clothing involved and if he plans on going for the three-peat. The winning design will be available for purchase at the customization station all next week at the US Open. Be sure to make your way down to the HB Pier to check out Donnie's winning design and the other events taking place at the 2010 US Open of Surfing. Donnie Miller: The task as I saw it was to make a design that's fully compatible with the existing US Open logo. It should be as simple and emblematic as possible, and add special new meaning to the surfer in the circle image. I did my best, and I think the goal was achieved. Poseidon obviously must be the host of the event! It's his turf after all. He’s wearing so little clothing because he's waiting to buy a US Open outfit at the beach. I wish I could talk to the people buying the shirts and ask their opinions about it, but I'm afraid some of the kids are taught not to talk to strangers, unless our mutual friend Hurley introduces us! And I unfortunately won’t be entering a design into this next round of Microphone for Youth. But maybe I’ll go for the three-peat sometime in the future. The top three designs from the US Open MFY T-Shirt Contest   Submit your new designs for Hurley’s next MFY T-Shirt Design Contest here. Theme for this round’s design: anything goes. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41361 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 28, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41360 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 28, 2010 One thousand, one hundred and seventy-six man-hours was how long it took James Marshall and crew to finish the new mural located at the Hurley Space Gallery. How much paint you ask? Anywhere from a quart to a gallon of seventy-three different colors were put to use for the creation. Sections of the mural will be for sale, allowing you to buy your favorite portion from the two full walls of art. Come down to Hurley HQ to check out the masterpiece.  The exhibit will be on display through August 27, 2010 Monday – Friday, 10AM – 5PM 1945 Placentia Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 For more information please contact: Annie Adjchavanich, annie_a@hurley.com http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41358 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 28, 2010   This is what they refer to as the home stretch. Next Saturday, at 7am, the world’s largest single-venue festival blending action sports and youth culture will open its doors to the public. But even though opening day is still eight days out, tent city has already blossomed. Walk down the site’s main drag (ironically called Main Street), flanked by three-story structures on either side, and the feel is very city-ish. Strange, when you consider you’re on the beach. Dominating the venue is the colossal 6,600 square-foot, three-pronged Retail and Brand Experience structure. The view of the Nike 6.0/Converse (left) and Hurley Brand Experience after walking through the rear doors of the Retail Tent. The Retail Tent is massive, dwarfing its previous versions, and serves as the main entrance to the venue. Situated directly behind the Retail Tent are the Hurley and Nike 6.0/Converse Brand Experience – Nike and Converse is a split space to the left, and Hurley to the right. Among the bells and whistles Hurley’s Chris Bradley was working on Friday were a boardshort chandelier (don’t ask us to explain, just know it’s even cooler than it sounds) and all 18 50-inch LCD TVs. The Converse Coastal Carnage bowl.  The US Open of Surfing Surf Stadium, with two grandstands and three towers, is 95% complete. At the far end of the venue, the Converse Coastal Carnage bowl is near rideable, and will definitely be in full working order by the 31st, while the interactive bowl is still in pieces. The Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro and US Open Music Stage portions of the venue, which will also host the Walk The Walk national finals, were just beginning to be built out on Friday. The view of the surf stadium -- two grandstands bookend three towers designated for athletes, VIPs and media.  By all accounts and measures, looks like everything will be dusted and dialed when the first fans hit the beach, bright and early next Saturday morning. In the meantime, check some more videos in our backstage section here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41342 EvanFontaine Friday, July 23, 2010 You might have seen the highlights on Sportscenter. Alberto Contador and Andy Schleck dodging sheep and wading through fog banks as they dueled it out in the Pyrenees during one of the final stages of this year's Tour de France. Among the thousands of cycling-crazed fans who line the road to the finish was our own Rob Machado. Check out his first impressions of the Tour in this quick update from abroad: "Had an amazing day yesterday checking out the Tour de France. Went by the Radio Shack bus before the start of the race, and hooked up with Lance for a few minutes before he pedaled up a giant mountain. He told me he was "a little tired"... I don't blame him. He's been on his bike for just over 83 hours in the past 23 days. After lance split we bolted up to the top of the Col du Tourmalet, almost 7000 feet up. Kinda weird when you've gotta ride a chair lift to get to the finish line. Pretty amazing place, and a lot of diehard Euros up there braving out the cold. Rob and Lance chatting it up pre-race. (Photo: Pete Santamaria) "The (Nike) Livestrong team escorted me around the entire day, and took care of me like no other.  Special thanks. They're doing an amazing job. Took them all surfing in Hossegor this morning on their way to Bordeaux. They were stoked to break away from the tour for a minute. - RM" http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41341 EvanFontaine Friday, July 23, 2010 Slated to compete in both X Games 16 and the Maloof Money Cup Orange County in a nine-day span, Bob Burnquist's summer has consisted of training, training and, well, more training. Check out this video to see what Bob's been working on. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41339 EvanFontaine Friday, July 23, 2010 Hurley team riders and Huntington Beach locals Brett Simpson, Brad Ettinger and Christian Saenz have been nominated for the Orange County Register’s 2010 OC Surfer of the Year. Brett looks to follow up on last year’s memorable summer, where he won the US Open of Surfing, OC Surfer of the Year and qualified for the ASP World Tour. Brad Ettinger joins Brett in the Male Surfer of the Year category while Christian Saenz looks to take home the OC Rising Star award. Make sure to vote for the Hurley guys before the contest ends July 30. Judging by the vote count, Simpo might not even need you help. But by registering to vote Simpo, Ettinger and Christian for OC Surfer of the Year, you are automatically entered to win a new 2010 Subaru Outback – incentive doesn’t get much better than that. Log on now to cast you vote for OC Surfer of the Year here.   Christian Saenz Brad Ettinger http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41328 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 21, 2010 One of Wrightsville Beach’s own, Hurley teamrider Michael Powell, won the Sixth Annual Reef/Sweetwater Pro-Am Surf Fest on Sunday. Powell, who is coming off an NSSA College Men’s National Championship surfing for UNC-Wilmington, beat out fellow North Carolinian and former World Tour surfer, Ben Bourgeois, Australian Heath Walker and Hawaiian Dylan Goodale, respectively. The 22-year-old Powell took home $5,000 for his efforts – no drop in the bucket for the recent college grad who just took a bank job. “I had no idea I was going to win,” Powell, who was aggressive early in the Final, said. “I felt like I did alright. I just tried not to think about what the other guys were doing.” “There are a lot of people that came here to watch me, so that feels great,” he said. “I was just doing my best out there. “I'm definitely happy to keep the ball rolling,” he said. “I've done well before, but this one feels really, really good.” http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41320 Evan Slater Tuesday, July 20, 2010 Last week, Jason Maloney and fellow artist, Bigfoot, spray-painted a 110-foot long by 20-foot tall mural at the private skate park of Hurley team rider, Curren Caples. At 14 years old, Curren is the youngest skater competing in the Skate Park portion of X Games 16, set to begin July 29th and run through August 1st in Los Angeles. View the full gallery for a sneak peek at some behind-the-scenes photos of the project, and remember to check back for the "making-of" video, currently in the works. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41303 Evan Slater Monday, July 19, 2010 Sixteen days from now, the 2010 U.S. Open of Surfing will officially get underway. But for the crews responsible for the venue’s build-out, the work began bright and early Wednesday morning. Already, three major projects at the venue – the grandstands for the surf contest, the judges tower, the retail and brand experience tent, and the Coastal Carnage skate bowl – are beginning to take form, sprouting up at different points on site. Under the pier, a network of mobile offices has been set up, and Thursday, each unit was being wired for electric, air conditioning and Internet. Adjacent to the pier, and really the first structure visitors will hit as they make their way from the boardwalk to the beach, they’ve laid the foundation for the retail and brand experience tent – a 6,600 square-foot space erected for your shopping pleasure. Huntington in the summer is always, well, a bit congested. But it’s a location that’s perfectly suited to accommodate an event of the U.S. Open’s scale. Case in point: the surf stadium. Two massive sets of scaffolding and bleachers bookend a judges’ tower. Put those on any other beach in the world and it’s a case of round peg, square hole. At Huntington, it’s a perfect fit. Twenty semi-trucks worth of scaffolding will be used to assemble the surf stadium grandstand for this year's event.  Scott Northern, a foreman for Mike Brown Grandstands, the company contracted out to build the bleacher seating for the public at this year’s event, said that he’d already unloaded 10 truckloads of scaffolding on Thursday, and still had 10 more to go. Northern, who manned a forklift most of Thursday, was busy shuttling scaffolding back and forth between the north side of the pier and the south side, where the first set of bleachers for the stadium is being built. Northern said the entire surf stadium should take only four-and-a-half days to complete. He and his crew have yet to start the second structure, which will be built farther down the beach. Next to the bleachers that Northern was working on, sits the judges’ tower. At 63 feet long, 30 feet deep, and between 12 and 13 ½ feet high, it’s the biggest the contest has ever built. Mat Riggs heads up the project. An action sports consultant hired by IMG, Riggs said the tower has nearly doubled in size compared to years past. The drop zone for the Converse Coastal Carnage bowl, 132 pieces in all.  On the southernmost end of the venue -- well over a block and a half from the pier -- big, blue sections of the Converse Coastal Carnage bowl are in the process of being trucked in and dumped on the sand. Pieces that range in height from five to 10 feet and in width from three to 13 feet are randomly scattered about, making for a pretty surreal scene for the casual beachgoer. Six or so more trucks, which makes 12 in all, are still scheduled to make drops before all the pieces for both the Coastal Carnage and the two interactive bowls are ready for assembly -- a fact that adds new meaning to the term “portable” ramp. But despite the heavy lifting in transit, it’s actually a pretty seamless operation. The pieces – 47, not including 35 flatbottom pieces and 50 deck pieces – once in place, all lineup nicely and fit together like a big jigsaw puzzle. Abe Towery, the self-described whip cracker of the Speerco Skatepark Builders, the company responsible for assembling the three bowls, said that they should have the big bowl up and running by the 26th or 27th, and start construction on the interactive bowl in about a week-and-a-half. All in all, not a bad first two days from ground zero at the 2010 U.S. Open of Surfing. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41241 Evan Slater Friday, July 16, 2010 Fresh off a Round 2 victory over Jeremy Flores, Brett sets his sights on a solid finish at JBay. We were able to catch up with Brett to find out how things are going down in South Africa and to see what the ASP rookie thinks of the 2010 World Tour thus far. Simpo walks us through his year and explains how it can only get better from here. - Phil Bannan HURLEY.COM: HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN AS A ROOKIE ON THE ASP WORLD TOUR SO FAR? BRETT SIMPSON: It’s been good. I missed some opportunities in the last few contests. I feel like I should have been doing better. I think I’ve been over thinking it and can definitely surf better than I have been. I’m still learning and trying to find my groove within the tour. Hopefully I can keep this streak going at JBay and get back in rhythm. I was surfing some great waves during the break the past two months. I’m excited to get back into it. THAT’S GOOD YOU CAN TAKE OUT A POSTITIVE FROM THE FIRST FEW CONTESTS, KNOWING THAT YOU HAVEN’T BEEN SURFING YOUR BEST AND CAN PERFORM BETTER IN THESE NEXT FEW EVENTS. Yeah, for sure. I have two 17ths and a 33rd. In a way, my goal is to get at least a 9th place finish here at JBay, because that would help my situation a lot. You definitely still want to look beyond that and finish higher, but for now I’m looking to set a different standard and hopefully stay consistent through an event. HOW DID THE BREAK FROM TOUR TREAT YOU? It was great. I had almost two months off to travel and turn off the competitive engines. I went on a boat trip for ten days with Pat and Tanner Gudauskas, Nate Yeomans, Mike Losness, Eric Geiselman and Alex Gray. It was amazing. Everyone got along and we scored some perfect waves. From there, I went to the Hurley house in Bali and stayed for about two weeks over there. We scored some good Padang Padang the first day and had fun waves the rest of the trip. It was nice to relax. But now, it’s all about JBay. HAVE YOU BEEN TO JBAY BEFORE THIS CONTEST? HOW HAS THE EXPERIENCE BEEN SO FAR? Yeah, I’ve been here before with the Huntington Beach High surf team. We didn’t get amazing waves, but it was definitely fun. JBay is a tricky wave. You can easily see if someone makes a mistake and it can also bring out the flaws in your surfing. It’s a long right hand point break and I feel like it suits my surfing well. I was able to get some good warm-up sessions in by coming a week early, so hopefully I can keep making it through my heats. WHAT ABOUT THE FOLLOWING CONTEST AT TEAHUPOO? HAVE YOU SURFED THERE BEFORE? I’ve never surfed there. It’s one of the spots I’m a little more anxious about. It’s definitely a wave with consequence. In Indo, we surfed a few solid left-handers so I’m feeling somewhat comfortable going into it. Hopefully the waves are good for the contest. I’m excited to surf with only two guys out there in some heavier conditions. We’re going to get barreled, so I’m pretty stoked. WITH THE TOUR DROPPING FROM 45 TO 32 AT THE HALFWAY POINT AFTER TEAHUPOO, WHAT IS IT LIKE BEING ONE OF THE SURFERS ON THE BUBBLE WITH A CHANCE OF BEING KNOCKED OFF? The last contest in Brazil, I never got going with any good waves and it felt like I chose the wrong equipment. That was frustrating to let that opportunity to slip by, but it’s past me now and I’m looking forward to making some heats these next two contests. I will need some good results to stay on the tour after the halfway cut. After Teahupoo there’s going to be a line drawn to see who gets to stay on tour. Everyone will be going for it and pushing the limits out there. There will be some pretty heavy wipeouts with guys trying to make it through their heats (laughs). So that will be a good one. WELL WE LOOK FORWARD TO WATCHING YOU IN YOUR NEXT FEW HEATS AND AT THE NEXT CONTEST IN TEAHUPOO. GOOD LUCK BRETT. Thanks. I appreciate it. Stay tuned as Brett Simpson looks to make it through his Round 3 match up against Michel Bourez once competition resumes. Brett would join fellow Hurley team rider, Ace Buchan, in Round 4 of the Jeffreys Bay Billabong Pro. Ace Buchan en route to a Round 3 heat win http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41238 Evan Slater Friday, July 16, 2010 See these shirts above? They are currently the frontrunners in our newest t-shirt design contest for the upcoming US Open of Surfing. If you like them, you should vote for them too, if not, there are many other entries to choose from on our Microphone for Youth website. If you want to add your own version, you should get to it now. Last day to enter is July 22. Winner gets $1000 and the honor of having his/her dream design become a reality. Share your vision and get stoked for the US Open! http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41236 Evan Slater Friday, July 16, 2010 The Hurley family and friends recently returned from a summer trip to Tavarua, Fiji. The group was blessed with a couple of swells and perfect conditions at both Cloudbreak and Restaurants. Hurley team rider and Tavarua boatman Aamion Goodwin recounts, “The week of the Hurley trip was probably the best waves we’ve had this whole summer at Tavarua. We were all surfed out by the end of it. It’s fun when you can get good Restaurants because it doesn’t happen very often.” Check the gallery for evidence of the Hurley brothers and friends shredding perfect waves. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41213 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 14, 2010 Pacifica, CA is not known for its summer’s waves. Kadin Panesi is well aware of this and decided to make the trek down to Southern California to show off some moves in the summertime crowds of Orange County. KADIN PANESI: I stayed in San Clamente for the last 2 months and got some really fun waves throughout the trip. Lowers was good pretty much the whole time. I head back home tomorrow. But I’m ready to get back and hope the waves are fun up north. Kadin Panesi finds a SoCal ramp Kadin letting his fins breathe http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41103 Evan Slater Monday, July 12, 2010 Most may think they went extinct 65 million years ago , but dinosaurs are officially back in style. The winner of the Microphone For Youth Weezer t-shirt design contest beat out more than two hundred entries by coming up with his ‘Dig and Discover’ design. Thousands of online voters and the Hurley design team decided on the winning design. With $1000 in his pocket and his t-shirt design landing a spot in the Hurley online store, Donnie Miller, is one happy camper. Hurley.com was able to catch up with the 26 year old New York City dweller to find out – why dinosaurs? HURLEY.COM: HEY DONNIE. CONGRATS ON THE BIG WIN! HOW DOES IT FEEL? DONNIE MILLER: I'm thrilled; it's definitely an honor! But I have to say, there were some other very interesting works in this contest, especially in the top line of course, and I hope those contestants get the recognition they deserve as well. YEAH, IT WAS DEFINITELY A CLOSE RACE. SO HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH YOUR T-SHIRT DESIGN? Well I first thought about the task at hand. It was necessary to come up with a concept that's truly custom made for Weezer and fully attributive to them. Some logo ornaments or casual pictures with the Weezer logo glued to it would definitely not be enough. It was also important to make a design with a message that would serve to promote Weezer to those unfamiliar with them, and get them interested and attracted (that's what band shirts are for). So with that in mind, I looked closely at the Weezer logo and it reminded me of a wooden dragon head, something that used on Viking ships. That was the initial point from which this design developed. Eventually it evolved into a composition with a time-space effect within an integrated layout where the parts correlate like puzzle-pieces. There is also a certain stylization- it's a traditional graphic design with minimal colors and logo-like expressiveness, so it's supposed to have a vintage/retro feel to it. AND WHAT ABOUT THE DINOSAURS? CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE MEANING BEHIND THE DESIGN? The design is not really about dinosaurs. It’s about digging Weezer, it’s about discovering Weezer. Actually, it's the Weezer logo being excavated and revitalized. WAS IT HARD TO CREATE THE HURLEY AND WEEZER THEMED T-SHIRT? It was a lot of work. As you can see, and my artist friends helped quite a bit. We usually collaborate on different projects. Of course the concept and art directing was all my own. HAVE YOU DESIGNED CLOTHES BEFORE? Well I don't look at this as fashion design. It's more in the sphere of visual imagery and graphic design. To me, t-shirts are more about messages; it's like wearing a poster. And yes, I've designed t-shirts before. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO SPEND YOUR $1000 PRIZE MONEY? I'm going to add this money to what I was already planning on sending to friends of mine abroad. The economic situation is much tougher out there, especially these days, you know? YEAH FOR SURE. WELL, IT'S AWESOME TO HEAR THE MONEY WILL BE GOING TOWARDS A GOOD CAUSE CAUSE. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS OVERALL ON WEEZER? I was a big fan of theirs as a teenager, and since then they've always found spots on my playlists. I'm glad to see them still going strong, and I hope to meet them at some point to ask what they think of my work. For more of Donnie Miller’s work go here. Below, are the four runner-ups of the Microphone For Youth T-Shirt Contest. It was a heated competition, but these designs were barely edged out by Donnie Miller’s winning ‘Dig and Discover’ design. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/41087 Evan Slater Monday, July 12, 2010 Check out the gallery for the Rip My Shred Stick Tour’s last two stops in Jacksonville and Daytona Beach, Florida. The eight-stop tour, allows kids 16 and under to hang out with the Hurley team, test-drive their boards and compete in a no-pressure, all-fun surf event. “We’ve had so much fun with the Rip My Shred Stick tour in years past,” says Hurley’s VP of Marketing Pat O’Connell. “And there’s no better place than the East Coast to bring it back. I know our athletes are fired up to get out there and mix it up with the Right Coast’s next generation.” The Hurley Phantom team has also been on hand to give away loads of Hurley gear along with customizable Phantom boardshorts. Regardless of whether you’re the Indo Dream Trip winner at the Cocoa Beach Nike Flywire Launch or a participant in one of the eight Rip My Shred Stick stops, we guarantee the experience will be unforgettable. Watch for the Phantom Truck and the Hurley Team to come rolling to a town near you these next two weeks. Official Rip My Shred Stick Tour Schedule: DATE LOCATION SHOPJuly 7 JACKSONVILLE BEACH , FL SUNRISE AND AQUA EASTJuly 8 DAYTONA BEACH, FL MAUI NIX July 10 COCOA BEACH, FL RON JON (FLYWIRE LAUNCH) July 12 ONSLOW BEACH, NC MARINE CORPS July 13 OUTER BANKS, NC REAL WATER SPORTS July 15 VIRGINIA BEACH, VA COASTAL EDGE AND 17TH STREET July 17 OCEAN CITY, NJ HERITAGE SURF SHOP July 18 LAVALETTE, NJ OCEAN HUT http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40953 Evan Slater Friday, July 9, 2010 Hurley’s Ambassador of Fun (aka Thrilla Gorilla) has another great event up his furry sleeve. Called “Transition,” it’s an art show and skate demo here at Hurley HQ this Saturday night. The show features hand painted skateboards, original artwork, prints, live music, live painting, and good food. What more can you ask for? The skate park will be open for an open skate session so bring your board. Event is free and is from 6-10 p.m. Check out the video promo here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40866 Evan Slater Thursday, July 8, 2010 Yes, this is the third WPS All Stars press release, but it’s the one you definitely want to read. All invited All Star surfers have officially entered the event, meaning we're one step closer to seeing these guys perform on Surf City's center stage. The star-studded crew of world tour standouts along with young guns Julian Wilson and Clay Marzo will most certainly be showing us where the future of surfing is headed. Buckle up.       Check Surfline’s breakdown of the WPS All Stars here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40825 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 7, 2010 Yes, this is the third WPS All Stars press release, but it’s the one you definitely want to read. All invited All Star surfers have officially entered the event, meaning we're one step closer to seeing these guys perform on Surf City's center stage. The star-studded crew of world tour standouts along with young guns Julian Wilson and Clay Marzo will most certainly be showing us where the future of surfing is headed. Buckle up.   Check Surfline’s breakdown of the WPS All Stars here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40824 Evan Slater Wednesday, July 7, 2010 COSTA MESA, CA, — July 1, 2010 — After a brief hiatus, Hurley’s Rip My Shred Stick tour will return to the East Coast this summer. The eight-stop tour, which allows kids 16 and under to hang out with the Hurley team, test-drive their boards and compete in a no-pressure, all-fun surf event, will begin July 7 in Jacksonville Beach, FL and conclude on July 18 in New Jersey. “We’ve had so much fun with the Rip My Shred Stick tour in years past,” says Hurley’s VP of Marketing Pat O’Connell. “And there’s no better place than the East Coast to bring it back. I know our athletes are fired up to get out there and mix it up with the Right Coast’s next generation.” In addition to the traditional Rip My Shred Stick surf event, the Phantom Truck will be on hand at every stop offering customized boardshorts, prizes and giveaways. The biggest event surrounding the truck will be our official East Coast Phantom with Nike Flywire launch at Ron Jon Surf Shop. There, participants will be able to trade in their old boardshorts, buy Flywires at half-price and be entered in a drawing for a trip to Kandui Resort in Indonesia with Rob Machado and the Hurley Team. So far, three other winners have been picked for the trip in October 2010. The event at Ron Jon will reveal the fourth lucky surfer to join Machado in Indo. “The Kandui resort is a special place,” says Machado. “I can’t wait to get out there and split a few peaks with these guys.” More info on the sweepstakes can be found at www.hurley.com/upgrade. Regardless of whether you’re the Indo Dream Trip winner or a participant in one of the eight Rip My Shred Stick stops, we guarantee the experience will be unforgettable. Watch for the Phantom Truck and the Hurley Team to come rolling to a town near you starting July 7. For more info, go to www.hurley.com. Official Rip My Shred Stick Tour Schedule: DATE LOCATION SHOP July 7   JACKSONVILLE BEACH , FL                              SUNRISE AND AQUA EAST July 8 DAYTONA BEACH, FL                                       MAUI NIX July 10     COCOA BEACH RON JON July 12  ONSLOW, NC            CAMP LEJUNE July 13    OUTER BANKS, NC                                       REAL WATER SPORTS July 15 VIRGINIA BEACH, VA                                      COASTAL EDGE AND 17TH STREET July 17 OCEAN CITY, NJ                                              HERITAGE SURF SHOP July 18 LAVALETTE, NJ                                               OCEAN HUT http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40823 Evan Slater Tuesday, July 6, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40799 Evan Slater Tuesday, July 6, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40777 Evan Slater Monday, July 5, 2010 Over the weekend Ace Buchan hosted the first ever Ace Buchan Traing Camp together with the good guys at Surfing Australia. According to Ace and the 16 fresh little groms the weekend was a hit, some of the kids went as far as saying it was the best weekend ever! The waves were pretty fun, first day was kinda small but Sunday was perfect for the kids, 2 foot fun little off shore peaks, Ace said. The weekend was fimed for Fuel TV and a clip will be coming to Hurley.com soon.     MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40752 Mitch Ross Sunday, July 4, 2010 The Brothers Powell, now junior business-men,have compiled all their entrepreneur expertise into one brick-s!#t-house of an entity. This entity, known as Carolina School of Surf, is just now beginning its ultimate reign of surf schools/surf instruction/custodial services/Costco surfboard provider. Our surf school is open for business so check out the site and make yourself comfortable. - BP Go here for more on the Carolina School of Surf. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40690 Evan Slater Wednesday, June 30, 2010 Aamion has one of the best jobs in the world. Well, that’s if you even consider working as a Tavarua boatman an actual job. Surfing perfect waves and hanging with island guests every week sounds like a pretty sweet gig to us. But it isn’t all play for Aamion. He also teaches Fijian kids and Tavarua visitors valuable tips and life lessons when it comes to surviving on a remote Pacific island. Ever wondered how to properly crack a coconut, make a hunting spear, catch dangerous finger-snatching coconut crabs or collect a feast with just a single palm fron? Well if so, Aamion is your guy. – Phil Bannan HURLEY.COM: HEY AAMION. HOW’S FIJI TREATING YOU? GETTING ANY WAVES OVER THERE? AAMION GOODWIN: I’ve been over here for about three weeks. We just had a few different swells come in. The week of the Hurley trip was probably the best waves we’ve had this whole time. It’s been really fun, but I go home tomorrow. I HEARD YOU’VE BEEN WORKING AS THE BOAT MAN OVER THERE? Yeah, I wouldn’t call it too much of work. It’s a lot of play. It’s really fun working as a boatman, it’s a pretty killer set up. It’s nice to come out here once the North Shore dies down in the summer months to get your sanity back. You can enjoy surfing a lot more. In Hawaii you’re always fighting for that next wave, but over here there are plenty to go around. HOW GOOD DID IT GET THE WEEK THE HURLEY GUYS WERE THERE? We had a great time. There were a couple of big swells. Both Restaurants and Cloudbreak got really good. Everyone was surfed out by the end of the week. It’s fun when you can get good Restaurants because it doesn’t happen very often. WOULD YOU TAKE PERFECT RESTAURANTS OVER PERFECT CLOUDBREAK? I don’t know about that. I think I would rather have perfect Cloudbreak. It’s a hard one, but one wave at perfect Cloudbreak will dwarf your waves at Restaurants. Sometimes you go out to big Cloudbreak and you don’t even get a wave, you just get pounded the whole time. But it’s definitely worth waiting for that one good one. That’s not to take anything away from Restaurants. If there’s a slight onshore wind at Cloudbreak, I’ll be at Restaurants for sure. ANY PLANS FOR AFTER FIJI? Yeah. I’m going back home to Kauai to regroup and then I might be going to Japan with my family. There’s a documentary on our family in the works, and the people filming it wanted to go over to Japan to do some shooting over there. THAT SOUNDS LIKE IT WILL BE FUN. WHAT’S THE DOCUMENTARY ABOUT? IS IT SURF RELATED? It’s surf and family related. It’s about eating healthy and stuff like that. We’re trying to combine surfing with healthy living in the way we’re raising our son. He just turned two in April. He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me…times a thousand (laughs). It’s super fun. They change so much at that age. I’m excited to get back home and see him tomorrow. Hopefully it will work out, and I can bring the family over here to Fiji next year. RIGHT ON. THAT SOUNDS AWESOME. WELL HAVE A SAFE TRIP BACK. Thanks. Have a good one. Not a bad place to wake up and go to work Aamion putting speed to good use Pre-Fijian feast http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40689 Evan Slater Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Traffic signal technician Dylan DeBie got the green light to head to Indo this weekend at the Switchfoot Bro Am in Encinitas. Only problem was, he wasn't there to claim the prize. "They told me the drawing was going to be at six, so I was just at home hanging with my dog." Fortunately, every other Phantom with Nike Flywire entrant got the same misinformation (who told them it was at 6 anyway?), which meant that Dylan, who arrived panting and power-fisting 15 minutes later, still won the prize. "You don't know how fired up I am right now," he said. "I usually go surfing with twins, so they're going to have to fight over who gets to join me." Dylan now joins Chris Hardt and Chris Palombo, along with Rob Machado and the Hurley team, on a dream trip to Kandui Resort in the Mentawais in late October. What does this mean for you? Two events remaining, two more chances for you to go to Indo. Next up: Ron Jon in Cocoa Beach. Go to www.hurley.com/upgrade for more info. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40634 Evan Slater Sunday, June 27, 2010 USA and Hawaii’s top juniors were met with epic Lowers courtesy of Hurricane Celia and a solid south swell. Mike Parsons and Peter Mel were frothing from the announcer’s booth claiming, “This is the best Trestles I have seen in a long time.” Perfect sets rolled through every couple minutes allowing spectators on the beach to mind-surf their brains out. The action packed day started off with the Boys Under 18 Quarterfinals in the water. Hurley’s Conner Coffin and Evan Geiselman went blow for blow in their Quarterfinal match up. If it weren’t for their colored jerseys, anyone would have guessed that they were trying to get clips for their next video part. The duo showed there is no longer any difference between contest surfing and freesurfing as they took turns splitting peaks and blowing up on any wave that came their way. Conner went to town on his first right, finishing the wave off with power gouge #34 of the ride, scoring an 8.00. Not to be outdone, Geiselman recorded an 8.50 as he let his fins breathe with snaps all the way to the inside section where he threw down a blow-tail reverse. After a few more man-sized carves and airs, Quarterfinal #2 wrapped up with Evan in 1st and Conner in 2nd. Both advance to the Semifinals where spots for the USA Surf Team will be on the line. Then, Girls Under 18 Quarterfinal heats took to the water in building swell and improving conditions. Quarterfinal 2 saw Courtney Conlogue rack up the highest heat score of the day with an 18.67. Courtney found a standup barrel to the amazement of the crowd. Brandon Guilmette asked, “Did she just get tubed at Trestles?” After logging tube time and ripping the rest of the wave, the judges awarded Courtney with a 9.27. At the end of the heat, Courtney found herself another bomb where she put everything on the line with two unreal snaps scoring a 9.40. Directly following Courtney’s heat, Lakey Peterson paddled into the pumping Lowers lineup to one-up her rival’s performance. Lakey took command of her heat, putting the other girls in a combination situation and leaving them to fight it out for second place. Lakey got the crowd on its feet by throwing a huge frontside air reverse, considered by announcer Ryan Simmons to be the best air ever by a girl in amateur competition. The judges awarded her a perfect 10 and a heat total of 18.5. The afternoon saw the Boys Under 12s get their shot in the water. Hurley grom and mini big-wave charger Jake Marshall recorded the third highest heat score of the day. His score of an 18.43 put him in the semifinals, which are set to take place first thing tomorrow morning. With surfers in all age groups blowing up, the limits of girls surfing being pushed to new heights, and the afternoon heats of boys Under 12s being the most exciting part of the contest thus far, tomorrow’s surfing is a must see. The conclusion of the Surfing America Championships will determine who competes for Team USA at the next ISA World Surfing Games. Action starts at 8am in what looks to be another day of Lower Trestles perfection.—Phil Bannan To watch the event live, go to www.surfingamerica.org. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40632 Evan Slater Sunday, June 27, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – June 25, 2010 – Top musical acts will join the world’s best action sports athletes for five days of free concerts on the sands of Huntington Beach, California for the 2010 US Open of Surfing. From August 3rd through August 7th, the following bands will conclude each day’s competition with a performance before thousands of action sports fans: Cold War Kids, The Soft Pack, Bedouin Soundclash, Iration, Switchfoot, Timmy Curran, Cobra Starship, Street Drum Corps, Hot Hot Heat and Weezer. "It's not everyday that you get to play overlooking the Pacific Ocean," said Rivers Cuomo of Weezer. "The band and I are excited to be playing at the US Open." The U.S. Open of Surfing presented by Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse is an action sports festival that brings together athletes from the worlds of surf, BMX and skate for a week of competition, art, fashion and music —all against the backdrop of the famed Huntington Beach Pier. From July 31 to August 8, 500 world-class athletes compete before more than 500,000 spectators. All of the action is accessible live on www.usopenofsurfing.com. “This is the strongest music lineup to play along side competitive surfing in Huntington Beach in 50-plus years,” said Sandy Bodecker, VP of Action Sports, Nike Inc. “It should be a great experience for fans to end a full day of competition with music of this caliber – all on the beach.” “I grew up in the Southland,” said Nathan Willett of Cold War Kids. “This will be our first show in Orange County in a long time. It’ll be fun to play in front of a home crowd again.” The U.S. Open features North America’s only combined Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Men’s Prime and Women’s Six-Star competitions. The event also hosts the U.S. Open Men’s and Women’s Junior Pro and the second annual WPS All Stars event which allows the public to choose 10 pro surfers to compete in the U.S. Open. Additionally, the Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro is a uniquely-formatted “park event,” featuring 25 invited riders. The Converse Coastal Carnage returns with a Super Mini-Park event for skateboarding featuring an impressive roster of 35 all-star skateboarders. Hurley’s Walk the Walk National Championship, a high school fashion competition, hits the U.S. Open stage on Friday, August 6. Six schools will create their own five-minute fashion show to win the grand prize of $25,000. Music Schedule: Tuesday, August 3 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Cold War Kids preceded by The Soft Pack Wednesday August 4 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Bedouin Soundclash preceded by Iration Thursday August 5 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran Friday, August 6 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps Saturday, August 7 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. http://www.hurley.com/. About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com. About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com. About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. ### Press Contacts: Nate Tobecksen Communications Director, Nike Affiliates Nate.Tobecksen@nike.com 503-532-5414 Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammk.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40628 Evan Slater Friday, June 25, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – June 25, 2010 – Top musical acts will join the world’s best action sports athletes for five days of free concerts on the sands of Huntington Beach, California for the 2010 US Open of Surfing. From August 3rd through August 7th, the following bands will conclude each day’s competition with a performance before thousands of action sports fans: Cold War Kids, The Soft Pack, Bedouin Soundclash, Iration, Switchfoot, Timmy Curran, Cobra Starship, Street Drum Corps, Hot Hot Heat and Weezer. "It's not everyday that you get to play overlooking the Pacific Ocean," said Rivers Cuomo of Weezer. "The band and I are excited to be playing at the US Open." Weezer is coming to the US Open of Surfing on Saturday, August 7. The U.S. Open of Surfing presented by Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse is an action sports festival that brings together athletes from the worlds of surf, BMX and skate for a week of competition, art, fashion and music —all against the backdrop of the famed Huntington Beach Pier. From July 31 to August 8, 500 world-class athletes compete before more than 500,000 spectators. All of the action is accessible live on www.usopenofsurfing.com. “This is the strongest music lineup to play along side competitive surfing in Huntington Beach in 50-plus years,” said Sandy Bodecker, VP of Action Sports, Nike Inc. “It should be a great experience for fans to end a full day of competition with music of this caliber – all on the beach.” “I grew up in the Southland,” said Nathan Willett of Cold War Kids. “This will be our first show in Orange County in a long time. It’ll be fun to play in front of a home crowd again.” The U.S. Open features North America’s only combined Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Men’s Prime and Women’s Six-Star competitions. The event also hosts the U.S. Open Men’s and Women’s Junior Pro and the second annual WPS All Stars event which allows the public to choose 10 pro surfers to compete in the U.S. Open. Additionally, the Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro is a uniquely-formatted “park event,” featuring 25 invited riders. The Converse Coastal Carnage returns with a Super Mini-Park event for skateboarding featuring an impressive roster of 35 all-star skateboarders. Hurley’s Walk the Walk National Championship, a high school fashion competition, hits the U.S. Open stage on Friday, August 6. Six schools will create their own five-minute fashion show to win the grand prize of $25,000. Music Schedule: Tuesday, August 3,  4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Cold War Kids preceded by The Soft Pack Wednesday August 4, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Bedouin Soundclash preceded by Iration Thursday August 5,  4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Switchfoot preceded by Timmy Curran Friday, August 6,  4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Cobra Starship preceded by Street Drum Corps Saturday, August 7,  4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Weezer preceded by Hot Hot Heat About Hurley Founded in 1999, Hurley is an authentic “Microphone for Youth” brand rooted in surf, skate, art, music and beach cultures. Driven by creativity and freedom of expression, Hurley develops world-class products for guys, girls and kids, including sportswear, footwear, eyewear, accessories, loungewear, swimwear and wetsuits. A wholly owned, independently run subsidiary of Nike, Inc., Hurley’s corporate headquarters are located in Costa Mesa, CA, with international offices in Tokyo, Sydney, Barcelona and Bali. www.hurley.com About Nike 6.0 The Nike 6.0 brand defines innovation and embodies the creativity of youth, united by action. Nike 6.0 delivers footwear and apparel to support the new generation of action sports athletes who are changing the worlds of surf, snow, BMX, moto, wake and freeski. Their unlimited potential and contagious energy deliver the future through performance and lifestyle. www.nike6.com About Converse Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”™ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including premium lifestyle men's and women's footwear and apparel. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 25 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, visit Converse on the web at www.converse.com About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com ### Press Contacts: Nate Tobecksen Communications Director, Nike Affiliates Nate.Tobecksen@nike.com 503-532-5414 Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40627 Evan Slater Friday, June 25, 2010 As I was preparing to write this story and get it up ASAP, I received this email below. After reading Jamie’s story I did not have a dry eye to spare, and I took some time to reflect on Zeke's life and the time I spent with him…long story short, I was reminded of how fragile, but yet powerful LIFE really is. A story is more than just words, and this story – The Zeke – will always be alive! – Noah Snyder A town is a place where people come together, live and tell stories tying into one another. Moments that are hilarious, terrible and amazing inspire nicknames and so on. People gather at their favorite places telling their stories to form a bigger one. This is the story of a surf town, Virginia Beach. Zeke died five years ago, his death a suicide, a choice and moment just like millions more, except the kind that's all too final, the kind that leaves no room for others. First Street, this ocean, this place, is where his ashes were scattered. Men who love the land, you give them to the land, but surfers do it different. Surfers paddle out, hold hands and make a circle, ashes to the water along with flowers. And then we scream and splash and say goodbye. Perhaps we scream because it's impossible. Zeke's friends did this on a freezing cold January day in 2006, two hundred people in the water and as many or more standing on the sand. I wasn't there that day, but I was there yesterday, for the 5th Annual "Zeke's Lil Rat Surfcus," a unique surf contest meant to make kids smile. Creativity is often born from suffering. Zeke's family and friends are doing their best to create something special in his honor -- beauty born from pain. Celebrating life The kids arrived and the contest began at 8:00 am. I watched as Zeke's mom, quiet and humble, worked to make sure everything was perfect for the kids. Every kid got an official contest t-shirt, black and white so that they could add the colors. She set up a table with fabric markers so that they could make their art. Zeke was always drawing and painting so this made perfect sense. She brought bubbles and water guns so that the kids could be kids, so that they could play and smile. This is crucial because as we get older we forget how to play, and the pain and worry replace our smiles. Mothers, the good ones, they fight to let us keep our smiles. Zeke is gone but his mother is still a mother. Nothing but smiles on the beach Midway through the morning, she walked away without announcement, away from the buzz and noise and laughter of the contest. She walked alone, away from the tents, across the sand toward the rocks that form the jetty. She walked with flowers. Nicole told me they were sunflowers, because you give sunflowers to the people that you truly love. The kids near us cheered and screamed for reasons unrelated, the surfers surfed and the announcers added noise. She moved slowly to the end of the rocks, stopped and threw the flowers to the sea. “She does this every year, today, on his birthday and on the day he died," Nicole told me as we watched. She paused for just a moment before walking back wiping her eyes. Later that day, I sat down in an empty chair beside her. "Today must be bittersweet for you," I said, after small talk and some silence. "Every day is bittersweet," she replied. We sat for some time, often without words, under a burning summer sun. I didn't offer answers because I had no answers to offer. When we did talk, we talked about family, pain and change. We talked about her wonderful brilliant grandson and we talked about my sisters. I was friends with Zeke when we worked together at Hurley, and his Nicole has become my friend over the last year. I came to Virginia to give her support and to meet the other characters, the friends with nicknames, his family, his town. I didn't know it when I bought my ticket but I came to watch a mother remember her son, to say in her own way, that she remembers, that he was significant, that she is still his mother. Setting up for the inside section Every single kid who surfed in the contest left with information about TWLOHA and a TWLOHA t-shirt. There was no epic speech but it moved me to know that every single kid left that beach with a bag marked "Hope is real. Help is real. Your story is important." The hope in all of that, the reason TWLOHA exists, is to keep the flowers from the sea. Death will come for all of us but let us fight to live. Let us bury our mothers and them not us. And if it should happen the other way or if it already has, I hope you get to know the privilege of seeing them remember. I hope you get to sit with them in silence, the silence simply honest and neither of you alone because the other is there. In Loving Memory: Zeke Sanders Rest in peace. — Jamie Tworkowski Additional links: Wright Coast Surf and TWLOHA. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40607 Evan Slater Wednesday, June 23, 2010 It isn’t often that a professional surfer finds himself in the company of celebrities such as Sting, Cameron Diaz and Faith Hill. But longtime Hurely rider Timmy Curran found himself shoulder to shoulder with these celebs and many more at the Larry King Gulf Oil Spill Telethon that aired Monday night on CNN. Curran was blown away when he got the call to be part of this event, and it couldn’t have been more fitting. He was the perfect candidate for “celebrity surfer guy” since he had been traveling along the Gulf Coast just before the oil spill for his Union Express tour. “Hanging out in that area, I got to know a bunch of the locals in town and saw on a first-hand basis how much their lifestyle revolves around the ocean,” Curran said, “To see this disaster first-hand makes you realize how devastating this really is — and how long it’s going to take to recover.” The two-hour event raised much public awareness and more than $1.8 million to aid in the Oil Spill relief efforts. During the broadcast, Kathy Griffin joked around with Curran, asking him “What are you famous for?” Curran thought about mentioning his front-flip, but he stuck with “surfer.” “You want to say what-up to everyone because you feel like you know them because you are so used to seeing them on TV,” said Curran. “But then you remember that you actually don’t know any of them.” All jokes aside, Curran tells us that there were no egos involved and everyone was there to support the cause. He even joined Larry King and the star-studded cast for a cocktail reception after the telethon. But Timmy’s a lot more about action than he is about cocktail receptions. He already has plans to make it out to the Gulf Coast in the near future and directly get involved with the relief efforts. If this doesn’t qualify as “A-List” celebrity status, we don’t know what does. — Chloe Barton To bid on Timmy's board and other items, go here. Proceeds go toward Oil Spill Relief efforts, and the items are up for bidding until July 7th. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40525 Evan Slater Tuesday, June 22, 2010 We already called it in Friday's breakdown, but the 2010 WPS All Stars have been chosen for the US Open of Surfing this August. Along with go-to heroes like Kelly, Rob, Andy, Mick, Taj, Dane and Jordy, we also saw the addition of relatively fresh faces like Clay Marzo and Julian Wilson. All of the 10 surfers will now receive invites to the All Star ceremony and to participate in the US Open of Surfing. Judging from what went down last year, we're only getting started with the only All Star event in surfing. Can you say, "slam dunk" at the HB PIer? Check the full results below. Thanks to everyone who made their voices heard.   Check Surfline's article here, and stay tuned to hurley.com for a confirmed list of WPS All Star surfers. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40524 Evan Slater Monday, June 21, 2010 We already called it in Friday's breakdown, but the 2010 WPS All Stars have been chosen for the US Open of Surfing this August. Along with go-to heroes like Kelly, Rob, Andy, Mick, Taj, Dane and Jordy, we also saw the addition of relatively fresh faces like Clay Marzo and Julian Wilson. All of the 10 surfers will now receive invites to the All Star ceremony and to participate in the US Open of Surfing. Judging from what went down last year, we're only getting started with the only All Star event in surfing. Can you say, "slam dunk" at the HB Pier? Check the full results below. Thanks to everyone who made their voices heard. Check Surfline's article here, and stay tuned to hurley.com for a confirmed list of WPS All Star surfers. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40522 Evan Slater Monday, June 21, 2010 The Phantom Truck was up to a lot of good again this weekend. This time: the PacSun Summer Solstice Beach Ballyhoo in Santa Monica. Indie favs like Minus the Bear, Ra Ra Riot and Matt and Kim played, 10,000 people were on hand and the Phantom customization station was working at full capacity. Check the photo highlights from yet another successful Phantom Truck stop.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40521 Evan Slater Monday, June 21, 2010 Who is Doug Matlack? He's a 19-year-old artist with big ideas and bigger talent. This Friday, he'll be displaying that talent in the form of a new gallery in LA. Called the Mad Factory Gallery, it's located on La Brea, in between Pink's Hot Dogs and Jet Rag. Come enjoy some amazing artwork, food that you owe to yourself and some used denim or a bowling shirt from Wisconsin for $3. To learn more, come to the Mad Factory Gallery or check his website. RSVP to the event here.   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40508 Evan Slater Monday, June 21, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – Friday, June 17, 2010 With three days left to vote for your favorite surfers and already thousands of voters deciding who will face off in the anticipated expression sessions, the 2010 WPS All-Stars Showdown is heating up. Last year’s event saw incredible performances from the world’s best, and this year is shaping up to be even more exciting. Help decide who will make the cut at www.usopenofsurfing.com. HERE IS THE CURRENT TOP 10: 1. Dane Reynolds (USA) Dane is one the world’s most exciting and popular surfers, so it’s not surprising to see him at the top of the leader board. His flawless mix of power surfing with new-age aerial shenanigans can likely steal the show. 2. Kelly Slater (USA) He’s a soon-to-be 10-time ASP World Champion…what more is there to say? 3. Jordy Smith (RSA) The South African prodigy is sure to turn heads in front of the biggest stadium surfing has ever seen. He’ll show us why he is currently ranked No. 2 on the ASP World Tour. 4. Clay Marzo (HAW) You never know what will happen when Clay takes to the water. Don’t believe us? Check out Clay demolishing an unsuspecting lip on the cover of Surfing Magazine’s August Issue here. 5. Rob Machado (USA) The stylemaster himself. Believe it or not, Rob doesn’t spend all his time inside the dredging left-handers of Indonesia. Come watch him tear Huntington to pieces as he aims for his fourth US Open Title in the ASP Prime Event. 6. Julian Wilson (AUS) One of the top young surfers from Down Under, Julian will take to the skies to show Huntington what a proper air looks like. 7. Taj Burrow (AUS) Look for the ASP’s current No. 3 to showcase his skills and prove to spectators that a world title is still only a matter of time. 8. Mick Fanning (AUS) How could you not watch the defending world champ take the stage against the world’s best surfers? Mick will put on a clinic using his signature combination of power and speed. 9. Andy Irons (HAW) After a solid 3rd place showing at the Nike 6.0 Lowers Pro last month, three-time ASP World Champ, Andy Irons, is a definite threat to soak up the spotlight in the WPS All-Star Showdown. AI is back in championship form. 10. Dusty Payne (HAW) Dusty’s surfing is pleasing to the eye, whether it be Pipe bombs or rippable beachbreak. The ASP World Tour rookie and free surfing phenom currently rounds out the top ten surfers slated for the WPS All-Stars event. Who’s missing? Who should be bumped off? You decide. Pick from surfing’s best while voting is still open at www.usopenofsurfing.com. —Phil Bannan http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40503 Evan Slater Friday, June 18, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – Friday, June 17, 2010 With three days left to vote for your favorite surfers and already thousands of voters deciding who will face off in the anticipated expression sessions, the 2010 WPS All-Stars Showdown is heating up. Last year’s event saw incredible performances from the world’s best, and this year is shaping up to be even more exciting. Help decide who will make the cut at www.usopenofsurfing.com. HERE'S THE CURRENT TOP 10: 1. Dane Reynolds (USA) Dane is one the world’s most exciting and popular surfers, so it’s not surprising to see him at the top of the leader board. His flawless mix of power surfing with new-age aerial shenanigans can likely steal the show. 2. Kelly Slater (USA) He’s a soon-to-be 10-time ASP World Champion…what more is there to say? 3. Jordy Smith (RSA) The South African prodigy is sure to turn heads in front of the biggest stadium surfing has ever seen. He’ll show us why he is currently ranked No. 2 on the ASP World Tour. 4. Clay Marzo (HAW) You never know what will happen when Clay takes to the water. Don’t believe us? Check out Clay demolishing an unsuspecting lip on the cover of Surfing Magazine’s August Issue here. 5. Rob Machado (USA) The stylemaster himself. Believe it or not, Rob doesn’t spend all his time inside the dredging left-handers of Indonesia. Come watch him tear Huntington to pieces as he aims for his fourth US Open Title in the ASP Prime Event. 6. Julian Wilson (AUS) One of the top young surfers from Down Under, Julian will take to the skies to show Huntington what a proper air looks like. 7. Taj Burrow (AUS) Look for the ASP’s current No. 3 to showcase his skills and prove to spectators that a world title is still only a matter of time. 8. Mick Fanning (AUS) How could you not watch the defending world champ take the stage against the world’s best surfers? Mick will put on a clinic using his signature combination of power and speed. 9. Andy Irons (HAW) After a solid 3rd place showing at the Nike 6.0 Lowers Pro last month, three-time ASP World Champ, Andy Irons, is a definite threat to soak up the spotlight in the WPS All-Star Showdown. AI is back in championship form. 10. Dusty Payne (HAW) Dusty’s surfing is pleasing to the eye, whether it be Pipe bombs or rippable beachbreak. The ASP World Tour rookie and free surfing phenom currently rounds out the top ten surfers slated for the WPS All-Stars event. Who’s missing? Who should be bumped off? You decide. Pick from surfing’s best while voting is still open at www.usopenofsurfing.com. —Phil Bannan http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40502 Evan Slater Friday, June 18, 2010 Timmy has been all over the map lately, promoting Union Express along with his new album VerseS while also traveling to Iceland for Taylor Steele’s Castles in the Sky. We talked with him as he catches his breath before summer kicks in to gear. The 6th annual Bro-Am surf contest and music festival is set for June 26th in Encinitas, CA. Timmy will be surfing for team Hurley as well as performing live that afternoon for your listening pleasure. Also, watch Timmy perform at the US Open of Surfing in a few weeks. Hurley, Nike 6.0, and Converse are combining forces to create what is sure to be the week of the decade. Don’t miss it! —Phil Bannan HURLEY.COM: ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SWITCHFOOT BRO-AM NEXT WEEK? TIMMY CURRAN: Yeah, I’ve been doing it for 3 years now. The Bro-Am raises money for Stand Up For Kids, an organization helping the homeless youth down in San Diego. The Switchfoot guys have done a great job turning it into a sort of festival. There’s nothing better than hanging on the beach, listening to music and surfing with friends. It’s a great weekend. I’m glad to be a part of it. THE JUDGES COUNT TWO WAVES FOR EACH RIDER: ONE WAVE SURFED NORMAL, AND THE OTHER SURFED SWITCH. HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTICING RIDING SWITCH TO GEAR UP FOR THE CONTEST? Yeah, I’m going to start practicing these next few weeks. My performance last year was a little rusty and I need to redeem myself this year. I didn’t know it was as serious as it is out there against all the switch-footers. So, it’s on! GOOD LUCK HONING THAT SKILL. DO YOU LIKE THE BRO-AM’S TEAM FORMAT FOR THE SURF CONTEST? Yeah. Anything with a team format is fun to watch. It makes you get extra competitive, rallying your team do well. It’s really fun. Timmy finds Bjork's Bay in Castles in the Sky. THERE WILL BE SOME INTENSE RIVALRIES OUT THERE. ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO PERFORMING AFTER THE SURF CONTEST? Yeah, I’m excited to share the stage with all the bands that are playing. It will be cool to play with bands like OK GO and my buddy Chris Shiflett. There are a lot of good bands and so many people down there. It goes off. HOW WAS THE EAST COAST TOUR FOR UNION EXPRESS AND YOUR NEW ALBUM? We had an amazing time hanging out with the locals at each spot and surfing with everyone. It’s fun because the film is only 35 minutes, so we get to perform for 45 minutes to an hour after. The whole trip was a blast and we keep getting offers at new venues, so we might be doing some more stuff with Channel Islands at surf shops around the country. WERE THERE ANY MOMENTS THAT STICK OUT FROM THE TOUR? We actually hit a turkey vulture down in Cocoa Beach. We were driving by this pack of twenty of them feasting on something on the side of the road. Me, trying to be funny, honked the horn as we drove by and they all scattered and flew away from us except for one. This one with like a six-foot wingspan did this big bank and went straight into our RV’s windshield. The thing blew out the windshield, there was glass flying everywhere, and everyone was screaming. The next thing I know we’re all stunned, sitting there looking at each other, realizing we just ruined a turkey vulture’s day. That was kind of heavy. Timmy gets raw somewhere near the Golden Gate. WOW, SOUNDS LIKE THERE WAS A BIT OF EVERYHTING ON THAT TOUR. CHANGING THE SUBJECT TO ANOTHER ONE OF YOUR RECENT TRIPS…DID YOU LIKE THE END RESULT OF YOUR ICELAND SECTION FOR CASTLES IN THE SKY? It was a great trip. I definitely want to go back there at some point. It was really cool getting to use the song that my friend, Andy Smith, and I came up with for the part. We recorded the song in my bathroom and then Andy came up with some cool beats and noises to go along with it. We showed the song to Taylor and he said it was a done deal and put it in the film. I was really, really excited to have that song in there. I feel like that’s the direction and sound we’re going to dabble with now in our music. CAN’T WAIT TO HEAR WHAT YOU GUYS COME UP WITH. WILL WE SEE YOU AT THE US OPEN? Yeah, I will be there. Hopefully I can get into the surf contest. I don’t have any points to qualify right now, so I might start doing a few contests here and there to try and get in that way. My little brother Nathaniel still has the bragging rights over me with his win in 2008, haha. He’s a super competitive grom, but I’m so stoked for him. But, yeah, this year is going to be awesome in Huntington. Hurley and 6.0 are promising it’s going to be even bigger than last year. They’ve done such a great job simplifying the event and showing what people want to see; it’s at a whole new level now. I’ve also heard the names of some of the bands performing on the beach throughout the week. It’s going to be a massive music festival. I’m excited to see what happens. For more on Castles in the Sky, go here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40496 Evan Slater Thursday, June 17, 2010 Four weeks before the end of the school year, visual arts teacher Matt Harward agreed to co-formulate a final project with his advanced art students around the theme of “water”. With a natural concern for and interest in environmental awareness, HBHS artists began with open dialogue on the myriad water-related global issues affecting all our lives. What followed are the pen and ink with watercolor art works on display. The emotional/intellectual/visceral energy that fueled student’s work, at its best, evokes contemplation: Raising awareness in oneself leads to raising awareness in one’s family….leads to raising awareness in community, nation, and ultimately, to a heightened global consciousness that, under the circumstances, begs attention. *Many thanks and great appreciation goes out to Evan Marks and The Ecology Center for graciously hosting this event! http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40470 Evan Slater Thursday, June 10, 2010 Evan Geiselman's golden competitive run continued at this past weekend's Arnette Pro Junior in Newport Beach. His runner-up finish behind Keanu Asing keeps him in pole position on the final lap of the ASP North America Pro Junior rankings. Translation: he's a lock for the upcoming ASP World Junior Tour later this fall. “I’m so psyched right now,” Geiselman said. “That was my main goal this whole contest, just to make the Final and get another good result because it’s the last Grade-3 before the cutoff. Me and Keanu just kind of switched off. I got him in Florida and he just got me here. He was ripping in that Final and I’m stoked for him.” In 2009, it was Kai Barger. Could Evan Geiselman be Hurley's second ASP World Junior champ in three years? We're believers. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40464 Evan Slater Tuesday, June 8, 2010 The 2010 Weenie Roast wasn't just about seeing fresh bands like Passion Pit, Silversun Pickups and The Temper Trap in the flesh. It was about boardshorts and customization and Phantom Fortune. The now-famous Phantom Truck posted up at this past weekend's Roast in Irvine, and the results were spectacular. Click the gallery for the photo highlights. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40461 Evan Slater Monday, June 7, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – Monday, June 7, 2010 – The world’s largest action sports festival wouldn’t be complete without an all-star event. And at this year’s U.S. Open of Surfing, held July 31-August 8 at the Huntington Beach Pier, we’ll see the return of the World Professional Surfers (WPS) All Stars. Last year, fans voted online for their favorites and were then able to watch eight icons — including Kelly Slater, Andy Irons, Mick Fanning, CJ Hobgood and Rob Machado — perform live in both the main event and in two specialty expression sessions. Not only did it help amplify Huntington’s stadium atmosphere to unprecedented levels, but it honored those surfers who continue to move the sport forward. “The U.S. Open of Surfing is just as much about the athlete as it is about the fan,” says Hurley VP of Sports Marketing Pat O’Connell. “And when we’re able to recognize greatness and elevate the experience both in the water and on the beach, everyone wins.” Starting today, June 7, fans can go to the U.S. Open website (usopenofsurfing.com) and pick their 10 favorite surfers from a list of 60 candidates. Each surfer will receive one point per vote. At the end of the two-week period, on June 21, the 10 highest-voted surfers will be announced and then invited to participate in the second annual WPS All Star Event. Last year, WPS All Stars were honored on stage, participated in autograph signings and amazed the crowd with two “PWC-assisted” expression sessions. There’s no doubt there will be all of that and more with this year’s WPS All Star honorees. “The 2009 WPS All Stars was a great event,” said reigning World Champ and 2009 WPS All Star Mick Fanning. “It gave the public a choice on who they wanted to see which really was a first for surfing. It was such an exciting event with the world’s best going for huge moves in big surf. I know the guys will have some exciting things planned this year and can't wait to see who will make the cut.” Voting is open now. Go to (usopenofsurfing.com) now to pick your favorites. About The U.S. Open of Surfing Staged at the famed Huntington Beach Pier July 31 to August 8, 2010, the U.S. Open is the world’s largest professional surfing competition, and hosts hundreds of world-class athletes along with skateboarding, BMX, music, fashion and youth culture. Boasting a rich history dating back to 1959, the massive event boasts North America’s only combined ASP Men’s Prime and Women’s Six-Star-rated events and is a pivotal point on the ASP World Tour. More information is available at usopenofsurfing.com About World Professional Surfers (WPS) World Professional Surfers (WPS) is the athletes' union representing professional surfers themselves. The WPS was formed in 2001 to safeguard the surfers' interests both during and after their surfing careers. All surfers on the World Tour are signatories of the organization and its media arm Worldprosurfers.com. The Worldprosurfers.com maxim is to deliver exclusive surfing coverage and innovative content, and to feature the latest news and footage in order to increase the connection between the pros and the public. The WPS also works to forge strong partnerships with surfing organizations, core and non-core industry, and all media in providing a clear, fresh and unified voice. www.worldprosufers.com About IMG Sports & Entertainment Operating in 30 countries, IMG Sports & Entertainment’s diverse businesses include: consulting services; event ownership and management; fashion events and models representation; licensing; golf course design; and client representation in golf, tennis, broadcasting, speakers, European football, rugby, cricket, motor sports, coaching, Olympic and action sports. IMG Academies are the world's largest, multi-sport training and educational facilities, delivering world-class training experiences to more than 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult, and professional athletes each year. More information is available at: www.imgworld.com. Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Jennifer Hernandez, Johanna Phillips, MKM Mike@teammkm.com; Jennifer@teammkm.com; Johanna@teammkm.com (714) 375-2188 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40446 Evan Slater Monday, June 7, 2010 Laguna artist Serge Armando is about to get a big run at 225 Forest. The exhibition, called “Spacial Order,” will kick off this Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. Music by Canyons, good food, no excuses. Especially considering that 15 percent of all art sales go straight to The Ecology Center. Go here for more info on Mr. Armando. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40416 Evan Slater Wednesday, June 2, 2010 All in all it's been an incredible year for young Mitch Crews who is the current ratings leader of the Australian Junior Series.  He started strong, winning multiple events, podium finishes at worst however there is still a battle for first spot underway between himself and Davey Cathels, a two horse race is unfolding and it is going to be an exciting finish. Right now Crews still has a solid lead but knows the battle is far from over. "Davey is an amazing surfer and i know he is capable of getting a few more huge results towards the end of the year," says Mitch, "but as you would know how he performs is out of my hands. I just have to worry about me and thats what i am now doing. I am super prepared, super focused... i just picked up a bunch of new Lee Stacey Boards which look super good so i am in a good spot. I just arrived in WA for the next Junior Event which kicks off in 4 days, i have arrived here a few days earlier to go and chase some waves with good friend Perth Standlick. The event is at one of the main beaches in Perth which is cool but as you would know the best waves are down south so thats the direction i am headed for a couple of days, then i will get back to the event beachbreak, get ready to snag a huge results."   Good luck to Mitch this week over in the West. I'm sure he will nail it!   MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40412 Mitch Ross Tuesday, June 1, 2010 Hurley opens its gallery“)(Space” this June with an exhibit by artist Mike Stilkey. With the advent of Kindle and other digital reading tablets, many books have been relegated to dusty shelves or donated into obscurity. Using these recycled, unused treasures, Stilkey meticulously stacks books’ spines facing outward and uses this surface to create wall murals and freestanding painted book sculptures. For the Hurley show, he is creating two 10 ft. x 12 ft. murals out of more than 5,000 recycled books sourced from the homes of Hurley employees, local libraries (leftovers scrounged from library sales) and from publishers who had books destined for pulping machines. "Giving all of these discarded or unwanted books a second life and reincarnating them into a new piece of art ensures that they are not going to be dumped in a landfill” said Stilkey, who will be working at )( Space from May 20th until his opening June 5th. Exhibit closes June 25, 2010. Following this show, sections of the mural will be relocated, book-by-book to the Nike 6.0, Converse and Hurley co-branded store “225 Forest” in Laguna Beach, CA. A 10' x 22’ foot high wall mural will be reconstituted in the middle of the retail space. WHAT: Mike Stilkey Exhibit at the new “)( Space” Gallery WHEN: Saturday, June 5, 2010, 6-10 p.m. Free and open to the public. WHERE: Hurley Headquarters, 1945 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa, CA To RSVP to the event, go here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40410 Evan Slater Tuesday, June 1, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40405 Evan Slater Thursday, May 27, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40402 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 26, 2010 Still going...I literally haven't stopped moving since I got here. As my father likes to say, "extremely busy, totally happy!" I sit here now at our base camp in PAP and ponder the past few weeks. I'm leaving back to US tomorrow so just gathering my thoughts over a cold Prestige. I spent the last few days in Jacmel visiting Paula. She has really embraced our program down there and it was incredible to see her operation first hand. This work really is a collaboration based initiative. I simply cannot do it without people like her, or Fritz in Leogane, etc... They know their communities inside and out, and the style in which they distribute reflects that very knowledge. They are soldiers fighting to make their communities better and our program is just one of their tools. I went to areas where whole villages are now operating entirely on our filter systems and not one of the villagers had a clue who I was. This is beautiful!... And exactly the point. All I did was empower a select few who then empowered their community. It's a viral grass roots program that is thriving. Being back in PAP after three days in Jacmel is an abrupt shift. But this time around I have a subtle sense of satisfaction flowing through me. I've said many times throughout my journey in Haiti that it is hard to ever feel satisfied with so much devastation and despair around you. But this trip was different. There is still just as many problems here... And in some cases even more than before the quake. But at least with the little sliver that I have some control over, things are noticably better... And with that comes a glimmer of satisfaction that I have been truly longing for. I told a friend a few nights ago that when we follow your heart and make all our decisions from that frequency, the universe takes care of us. There is a certain synergy that I have been experiencing lately that is a tangible affirmation of this... That said, I have a renewed confidence towards our quest to bring the people of Haiti clean water... but mostly because I know I'm not doing it alone. Much love... Jon http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40401 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 26, 2010 Vancouver Island's Peter Devries, Hurley rider and 2009 Coldwater Classic Winner, just won the second round of Taylor Steele's Innersection. His beautifully filmed part, set to the evergreen backdrop of Vancouver island, won the praises of soon-to-be 10-time world champ Kelly Slater and thousands of other online viewers. It was no surprise, really: Pete was a runaway winner in this round. What does this mean? It means that Hurley's own Devries will be featured in Taylor Steele's next film. He now has the rest of the year to work on his "part" and keep improving his clips til the end. "We actually had a bad season this year," said Pete. "So I know there's so much more I can do. And now we have plenty of time to get it done. I'm so excited and honored to be a part of this thing." Canada's finest just keeps getting better. Congratulations, Pete!   To see the Innersection interview with Pete, go here. Don't forget: Brett Simpson and Conner Coffin are still in the running for the Top 5. Stay tuned to www.innersection.tv to see what happens. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40399 Evan Slater Monday, May 24, 2010 Fierce northwest winds blew white caps the size of a VW bus this past Saturday at Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz. Even though it was the end of May, Spring-like conditions prevailed at the contest this year. There was a good south swell pumping and a huge kelp bed outside the line up that prevented the wind from overshadowing the surfing. Surfing is an integral part of the Santa Cruz community and people turned out in numbers to support this grass-roots event. “It’s a fun contest that the whole community comes out to see- people make a day of it,” said Bubb Rader, Manager and co-founder of the Spring Fling. The Pro/Am Invitational had an all-star cast of surfers this year: Jason “Rat Boy” Collins, Shawn “Barney” Barron, Kalani Robb, Adam Virs, Mike Morrissey, Johnny Craft, Shawn Dollar, Randy Bonds, Josh Mulcoy, Tyler Fox, and Russel Smith- to name a few…. The Hurley Phantom Truck was on site at this year’s event showcasing all of the latest Phantom board shorts available. People were able to customize their own board shorts and also participate in Hurley’s “Phantom Fortune” for the chance to win loads of free product. A big shout out to all of the sponsors that supported the 3rd Annual Spring Fling, and to the community of Santa Cruz for supporting us with another great event! We couldn’t do it without all of you. —Hula Results PRO/AM 1. Tyler Fox - $3000 US 2. Josh Mulcoy - $1250 US 3. Randy Bonds - $500 US 4. Omar Etcheverry - $250 US JUNIORS 1. Cole Walter 2. Pete Mueller 3. John Wilson 4. Willie Eagleton 5. Seth Nowlin 6. Max Nunes GROMS 1. Wyatt Barabee 2. Carlos Carpenter 3. Willen Ranks 4.Chester Newling 5. Tenzin Mendenhall 6. Ben Coffey WOMENS 1. Kim Mayer 2. Amy Mc Vickta 3. Cindy Yang 4. Kim Zimmerman 5. Asia Carpenter 6. Kelly Edmonds 7. Michaela Alkshe 8. Shae Cruz http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40396 Evan Slater Sunday, May 23, 2010 Josh Piper traveled with the English team to Viana de Castelo, Portugal, for the European Junior Championships which were held from May 8th – May 16th. Competing in the U18 division, Josh came 7th overall helping England to 4th place in the championship behind France, Portugal and Spain. The event was invaluable experience for Josh as he competes in some European Pro junior events this summer. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40392 Evan Slater Thursday, May 20, 2010 My experiences in Haiti have tought me a boat load of things, but one of the more unexpected byproducts has been a newfound understanding and appreciation for the global military community. In the first month after the quake I was working close with the 82nd Airborne (US military) unit and was blown away day in and day out by their incredible discipline and efficiency. They were such a great group of guys who genuinely enjoyed helping the local people through such a rough time. Fast forward: I've spent the last two days living with the Chilean battalion of the UN Minustah Military (Minustah is the name for the UN's Haiti operation). The Chileans are in charge of patrolling and securing the North section of Haiti. My stay here is part of a preliminary mission to start laying foundation for a collaboration/ partnership between the UN Minustah operation here, and my water program. The idea is to utilize the Minustah Military's knowledge of this area to help us establish and operate our program. It is an exciting step towards our goal of getting everyone in Haiti clean water... this kind of support is the very backbone of such a goal. The Chilean soldiers are hospitible and genuine people. They have let me in to their world and I will never forget it. Especially their cook, who insists on calling me "California!" It's been nice to be away from the intensity of PAP. However, the day before I came up here to the North I visited two camps in Cite Soleil - Haiti's most desperate and crime ridden area. There is a project going on there, spearheaded by Patricia Arquette, that involves our filtration systems. She has created a testing facility in one of the tent camps to try a few different sustainability concepts. She and her team have mainly been addressing the sanitation challenges of this area - human waste, trash, etc... All of which are on the verge of creating a secondary disease-driven epidemic. She is incorporating our filter model into her program to combat the potable water challenges, but her main focus has been on composting, recycling, and bio-digesting. It was an incredible project to see and I'm honored to be a part of it. I really believe that there is such enormous opportunity in Haiti right now. We have a chance not only as foreigners, but as humans, to try agressive solutions here - that, in the future... could end up being benchmarks for the global community. There are amazing people here doing amazing things... and once again I feel confident in our ability, as a species, to collectively change our destiny. More to come... Humbled and grateful, Jon http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40391 Evan Slater Thursday, May 20, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40390 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 19, 2010 Rob made the big time. At least in the fashion circles he did. And while Machado may have never seen Gossip Girl or is as casual about a Mario Testino Vogue shoot as he is at 6- to 8-foot Pipeline, it IS the big time. For him. For surfing. For Hurley. Here are just a couple of spreads from the June issue shoot with Blake Lively on the cover. Be sure to go here for the full story on vogue.com. For the Behind the Scenes video on vogue.com, go here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40387 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 18, 2010 You know how our very own Conner Coffin and his brother Parker are always coming up with cool stuff. Their blog alone www.youngwisetails.com will keep you entertained for days. And now they want to pay you for it. Conner and Parker have apparently earned some extra cash at their lemonade stand and they want to pass it on to you if you can design them a logo that lasts forever. So, go here, design the best youngwisetails.com logo and you will win $500 plus a bunch of Hurley, Volcom and Oakley gear. No restrictions, color preferences or "guard rails," just get creative and have fun with it. When these two magical acts occur at the same time, chances are you'll come up with something amazing. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40386 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 18, 2010 SIMA's annual Surf Summit is many things to many people. For some, it's an excuse to surf for four straight days. For others, it's an excuse to tie on the bandana and take advantage of the all-you-can-drink bar. And for many, it's an opportunity to connect with others and learn something about our ever-evolving industry. But for the majority, it's most likely a little bit of all of these. Here are just a few Hurley photographic highlights from this past week in Cabo. Stay tuned for more as they arrive in our Inbox.  Rob Machado closes out the event with a chat with 1989 world champ Martin Potter.  Pottz, Fernando Aguerre and Rob.  Yadin, Brett and Jim, Tracy and Brittany Heritage.  Ace, ASG President Norb Garrett, our boy Saxon and Fisher King Paul Gomez.  Right to left: Pat O, Web, Jenna, Yadin and some guy called Bootleg.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40381 Evan Slater Sunday, May 16, 2010 Where do I begin? I'm sweaty and sleep deprived but the work is good. I've had a 13 hr day yesterday with Fritz in Leogane. Like I said in my last update, my networks have been exceeding all of my expectations. Mainly in their organization and persistant work ethic. Coordinating and operating a filter distribution is HARD work and they are not getting paid. They have truly embraced the empowerment aspect of this program. Yesterday I went to some villages only accessible by a 4 wheel drive up a riverbed. In each mud/stick hut there was our filter systems... Operating perfectly! One mother said that her baby had severe diarrea and now with the filter, it has stopped. It really is that black and white.... They say the differences in their health are nothing short of extreme. There has been more civil unrest in PAP. Organized crime is getting more organized... And there are more and more reports of kidnappings and killings. Some aid workers have now been victimized. Which, is unsettling since I have been out in the thick of it almost everyday. I am relying on trust and quick wit... Psychologically, that's all I have. About to crack into my trusty Jack Daniels stash. Im banking on it to make the bags under my eyes feel less heavy. Signing off cause this update is now making me sweat more... —Jon Read Jon's first dispatch here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40380 Evan Slater Sunday, May 16, 2010 Looking at your section now and stacking it up against the competition, are you satisfied with it? No, not at all. I think there's a lot of room for improvement. What was the hardest thing about making this part for Innersection? Probably just filming and getting clips before the deadline. How long did it take and how involved were you in the edit? Well, I don't really know how long Mike Lopez would know but I was involved and we were changing things a lot and moving clips around. Is dance/electronica the new go-to track for surf vids? Um...it depends on what you like. What's your favorite clip in your part? My Pipe clips and the other left barrel. Who helped make your part possible? I don't even know. Every section has airs, turns and barrels and everyone can do that but I've really been looking at the concept and the style of the surfer. If you had a campaign slogan, what would it be? Vote for ME haha!!! Go here to vote for Evan. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40376 Evan Slater Thursday, May 13, 2010 Looking at your section now and stacking it up against the competition, are you satisfied with it? I beileve so! There's definitely some great sections and cool manuvers but i think in the whole scheme of things ours turned out well. Magnificent editing with amping music with some good surfing. I'm confident in our part. What was the hardest thing about making this part for Innersection? Well, in our case it was a bit last minute but it turned out to be alot of fun. i just made a goal out of it and did my best and get it as complete as i could with the time we had. Variety for me and i think in anyone's case dealing with only about a month to put it together would be the main struggle. Even though we went throughout Australia and made it happen. How long did it take and how involved were you in the edit? Well, we were in Australia for about a month and did as much as we could. We did a bit on the Goldcoast, West Aus and the Victoria area. I wasn't too much involved in the editing side with Tom Aiello but i trust him and his work 100%. It turned out even better than i was expecting. He has done an awesome job. I did pick and choose some waves i did and didn't like but when it came down to it, I let the brains do the job. Is dance/electronica the new go-to track for surf vids? I'm not really sure. The music side definitely goes in phases. I really think it all depends on how you surf and what fits your style the best. Our pick was a La Roux remix that was a bit more electronica but i felt it fit well and got ya excited to go for a surf!. That's what i think it all comes down to. What's your favorite clip in your part? I can't really pick just one. It's a package deal. Who helped make your part possible? I'd have to say Hurley for letting Tom Aiello come over to Aus and getting to work with him was great. And thanks Tom for dedicating his time and effort in filming and editing every little bit. If you had a campaign slogan, what would it be?  I'm a great white you's a flounder! Go here to vote for Brett. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40375 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 12, 2010 Looking at your section now and stacking it up against the competition, are you satisfied with it? CONNER COFFIN: Well, all of the parts are really, really impressive! It was interesting to see the variety of people that made a part. I was blown away by some of the surfing in them. I am stoked on our part but time will tell if it can make the cut. I feel like there is definitely a lot of room for improvement. What was the hardest thing about making this part for Innersection? Hmmmm. Waves are always a challenge. I would say the hardest part was trying to find a song to work. That was a complete and total nightmare. How long did it take and how involved were you in the edit? I wouldn't know how long the editing took because I didn't sit there with Ryan while he did it. Once he had a first cut done, I watched it and gave him my feedback, but not once did I sit there while he edited. He likes to do his own thing. Is dance/electronica the new go-to track for surf vids? NO!!! We tried to bring a bit of a different song into the mix. That is what I miss most about older surf films was the sick sound tracks with bands like Pennywise and Offspring. Rock and Punk are always going to get me pumped. What's your favorite clip in your part? I think that my favorite clip is the grab rail carve towards the end. Who helped make your part possible? So many people! My sponsors played a huge role making our trip to Mexico possible and of course Ryan played the biggest role. Without him I would still be scratching my head trying to figure out how to get clips! He is the man and has pretty much become something like an older brother to me. My parents make everything possible. Can't thank them enough for everything that they do. There are so many more that those few barely scratch the surface. If you had a campaign slogan, what would it be? HAHA! I don't know! Something involving not leaving too many bad comments on our video. Go here and let the world know that Conner belongs in the Top 5. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40372 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 11, 2010 Good morning! Been here for 2 days now and finally starting to adjust. It's a weird sensation for me to be back. On some levels I feel more comfotable than ever but there's also been a lot of change. Mostly good changes - debris removal, better structures in the tent camps, and definitely a resumed sense of commerce and low level economic growth. But there has also been a vibrational shift within the people that is very noticable. The sense of emergency has subsided and with that comes two things - most feel gracious for what seems to be a return towards normalcy... But for others, that normalcy is a return to a very unpleasant reality. The quake brought so much destruction and loss but it also brought people together... and in some ways, served as a distraction from what was already an incredibly hard life. It put a freeze on a lot of the existing problems because everything was about basic survival. Plus the ammount of international attention and support. Now that the dust has settled the old issues are resurfacing in a sobering fashion. For me, The experience this time is completely different. My sadness for their situation is the same except it's not as specifically focused on quake victims, but rather the bigger picture - jobs, upcoming election, and corruption. Thr focus, with my work, has shifted in he same manner. Less disater relief - i.e. "band aid" type solutions and more long term ideas such as rain harvesting or potential well digging sites. Also looking into natural spring sources in the hills that could be contained and then piped down to villages. On my way to Saint Marc with my bro/driver/comedian, Sylla. So great to see him. He's been taking me to some of the regions he's distributed filters to and I've been seeing first hand the evolution of this program. He has done a fantastic job! The filter systems are in peoples huts and working great! These are all people I never demonstrated for and that is exactly the point. Sylla has taken the knowledge and started empowering his communities... Just as I'd hoped. Please continue to spread the word. It DOES make a difference. Much love! — Jon For more from Jon, go to www.wavesforwater.org. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40371 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 11, 2010 How hard was the process in making this piece? Rumor has it you guys locked yourself in a log cabin for a week. PETER DEVRIES: The last week before the comp was hard.  Trying to get clips when the waves were terrible.  I had 0 backside clips with five days left so we had to try and get something.  Other than that there were a few days that let us put it all together.  We didn't have the best winter for some of the better waves up here so that was tough.  Lots of big swell and lots of bad wind.  The wind would always come in the middle of the night when it was dark.  But no, we didn't lock ourselves in a cabin for a week. Your part makes Canada look like it has some of the best waves on the planet. But if the average surfer traveled there, chances are they'd get a lot more rain than roping right tubes. Give us an idea of how difficult it is to find those golden windows.We had one good day this year in terms of hollow waves.  Luckily there were a few good clips from that day, and the other barrels came from days where I would just get one good wave.  The last wave was from a boat/camp trip up the coast.  Noah Cohen, Raph, Ryan, Jeremy and I went up overnight and the slogan of the trip was 3 surfers, 2 hours, 1 wave.  I was the lucky one who got the wave.   That was after a 3-hour boat ride and two hours of waiting for the tide to get right. Canada isn't exactly the high-performance capital. Where are you getting your influence and inspiration?I've basically grown up watching Taylor Steele movies for inspiration and to see where the performance level of surfing is set.  There are only a few guys ripping up here so in order to see different styles and approaches you have to look at videos.  It's great to have the opportunity to enter a contest like this because I really do owe a lot to his movies.  I'm the type of person who is easily self motivated to surf and I love it also.  It doesn't matter how cold it is.  That's just a part of life up here. Is it weird for you to surf without booties? I love my booties!  It's hard to take them off at first but after a few days it's all good.  You get used to whatever you surf in so for me a 3/2 and boots would be ideal.  Unfortunately I have to wear a 5mm and boots most of the year and gloves for 5 or 6 months.  That is what really sucks!  I hate gloves.  There is one alley-oop from Nova Scotia in the clip where I was wearing 7mm mits.  It was my first surf out there in 1.8 degree water/ 34 F or something like that.  For anyone who is surfing in the cold never wear 7mm mits!  Trust me, you can't paddle. If you made the Top 5, would you scrap this and start all over again? If I got in we would ideally replace every single clip in the section.  Bigger airs, bigger deeper barrels, more backside and more combos.  It would be something that we would spend a lot of time working on.  It would have to be all cold water though.  No boardies.  We might have to get rid of the song too...looking at some of the early comments. Ha. I hope it grows on people like it did on me.  I guess when you do an edit and hear something 1000 times you get into it. Who helped make this possible?Jeremy Koreski and Adam Chilton were huge in all of this.  I've been filming with Adam for a while and we've been racking up a few good clips. Jeremy jumped onboard a little while back when he got his 7D and 5D.  He's done a couple movies in the past, Numb and Shrink, but he has primarily been a still photographer over the last few years.  He took that approach to this project and to all the video he shoots in general.  For him it is not necessarily about getting the surfing straight on from the beach.  It's all about showing more in the clip along with getting all the action.  He's very talented and shoots everything with a unique eye.  The intro and lifestyle stuff are all his and we have plenty of ideas for the future.  We are really excited to get out there and try some different things.  It's nice for him to change his medium too so he's pretty fired up right now. Kuan-Jian foo helped out with the edit.  Mainly with the sound and titles.  Dean Azim and Shayne Stadnick helped out during the final week with the double angle on a few of those backside clips too. I can't forget my family for being so supportive.  My fiancee Lisa Hasse, son, Asher and my dog Naia. Go here to vote for Pete now. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40370 Evan Slater Monday, May 10, 2010 I love surfing my home break, Brooks St. Laguna Beach. I grew up surfing this famous Laguna Break. I rode my first Second Reef wave when I was 10 years old. My mom was really mad cause I left her at Thalia St. and went out by myself. Some regulars out there are Pat O' Connel, Jeff Booth, Watto, Sean Brown and many other local characters. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40368 Eli Viszolay Monday, May 10, 2010 Taylor Steele's new video concept, Innersection, currently has its second round of submissions posted and Hurley guys are all over it. Here's how Innersection works: over the course of the year, dozens of top surfers — both known and unknown — post their two-minute "parts" to Innersection.tv. Those parts are then praised, bashed and voted on, to be considered for the "Final Cut." At the end of the two-week voting period, a Top Five will go on to be a part of Taylor's next big film. It's a great idea that's already capturing the imaginations of forward-thinking surfers and filmmakers the world over. Four of those surfers are Hurley family members, and they've been deep in the woodshed the past couple of months making the best video possible. All that hard work is now live on the site, and they need your help. Here's the lineup and links for each video. Also, stay tuned for interviews from each guy on the making of their part. 1. Pete Devries: an all-coldwater shredfest in and around the rugged Vancouver Island. Pete's video stands out big time and is the current leader. Go here to watch and vote. 2. Brett Simpson: Brett and Hurley's Tom Aiello spent two months in Oz putting his part together and the results are amazing. Slick-edited with World Tour-caliber surfing, Brett needs your vote to push it into the Top 5. Go here to vote. 3. Evan Geiselman: EG goes for it both in and out of the water, with a classic skit and some huge, signature air reverses. Evan also shows that he's not afraid to pull in. Go here to vote. 4. Conner Coffin: At only 16 years of age, Coffin is one of the younger Innersection candidates. But his rail surfing is well beyond his years, as his is choice in music. Coffin has the best song of the entire bunch. Go here and let the world know he belongs in the Top 5. This is rally time. Forward this to your friends. Lean on your social networks. Tell your Internet-savvy grandma. The more votes, the better and you can vote for all of 'em. In our eyes, they all deserve 10 stars. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40360 Evan Slater Sunday, May 9, 2010 It has officially begun again: Hurley's True Performance House in Bali. The house has been locked in for couple of months for all of Hurley's top pros and friends to check in, catch incredible waves, train hard and have fun. The first group to hit the house were the retailers, with Barton Lynch there as the coach — sure, the house is about fun but it is also set up to help these guys out in the water... Check out a whole lot of photos from the week. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40331 Mitch Ross Saturday, May 8, 2010 HB local and HBHS senior Christian Saenz did it again. With a second-place finish at last weekend's NSSA Open season, he clinched his second consecutive season title. The last time this happened? Way before the internet when three-time world champ Tom Curren did it in 81/82. Next up for Saenzy: his first Open Men's National Title. Event starts June 16 -- be sure to cheer him on. Special Surfboard Design Note: Saenzy clinched his title riding a Hurley-shaped "secret weapon." http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40263 Evan Slater Thursday, May 6, 2010 Photographer and community activist Faye Chapman will be displaying her striking collection, “Faces of the Shadows,” during the upcoming First Thursday Art Walk Exhibition Opening in Laguna Beach on May 6. The image collection — featuring dozens of Southern California’s homeless — sheds light on our communities’ ever-present problem of providing food and shelter to those most in need. Chapman has been documenting the homeless for more than a decade. After experiencing hardship in her own upbringing, she naturally gravitated toward individuals “living in the shadows” as her photography developed. This particular book project began in Venice Beach, when a homeless woman came into her viewfinder. “I couldn’t help but wondering: doesn’t someone —anyone— care about her?” she said. That started a years-long mission to “humanize” the people who are ignored far too often. She traveled up and down Southern California, from Skid Row to San Diego, and compiled a stunning collection of images. The results, “Faces in the Shadows,” is now a published book. Chapman’s work also extends beyond the art itself. As Chair of the Laguna Relief and Resource Center, she is active in making a difference in her subjects’ lives. At Thursday’s exhibit, for example, 60 percent of all her photography sales will go to the Laguna Relief and Resource Center. Come to Laguna’s 225 Forest on May 6 and help our area’s homeless get the attention they deserve. What: Faye Chapman Photography Exhibit When: Thursday, May 6, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Where: 225 Forest Ave., Laguna Beach http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40261 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 5, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40260 Evan Slater Wednesday, May 5, 2010 I was lucky enough to be attending the festival in Seattle this weekend alongside Jonno and Pam Skuse (star of documentary). The 4 day event showcased over 190 films, all directed by filmmakers under 22 years of age, making it the biggest youth film festival in the world. I attended last year with Surfing 50 States, so to return with a completely different film in under one year was pretty tops. The level of production this year was insane, some super talented grommets out there i tell ya. This is the 2nd award for Somewhere Near Tapachula and we’re super stoked on it.  Best Feature Film of the National Film Festival for Talented Youth 2010 Shakas & Huge Smiles!     Stef. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40259 Mitch Ross Wednesday, May 5, 2010 Evan Geiselman doesn't mind taking chances. And in his quarterfinal heat today against Gabriel Medina and Granger Larsen, he decided to go big or go home. His first couple of attempts? He came up empty with botched frontside air attempts. His third? A huge air reverse off the main peak, a series of combos, plus an another air as an exclamation point. The result: a 9.5, the heat win and a trip to the semis. "Gabriel (Medina) went crazy in his first heat and I didn't really have the best opener and I just got mad," Geiselman said, who's leading the ASP North America Pro Junior ratings right now. "Then I saw that I was surfing against Gabriel and I thought, 'alright, I'm going to have to do some pretty big stuff,' and that's what I did. Luckily I kept getting those lefts and it just worked out. I knew I was going to have to do big airs if I was going to compete with those guys." Conner Coffin took a more even-handed approach with solid, all-rail surfing throughout the event. "My first round heat this morning was gnarly too," Coffin said. "The whole contest is so gnarly because it's a small field and all of the international juniors are here. Every heat out here seems like it could be a final, so I'm stoked to have made the Semifinals." Evan and Conner: opposite ends of the draw, and looking solid for 1 and 2 at the Oakley Pro Junior. Check back here tomorrow for more from our guys from the NIke 6.0 Lowers Pro. Also, stay tuned for their submissions on Taylor Steele's Innersection.They're going to blow you away. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40258 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 4, 2010 Welcome to the 2010 US Open of Surfing presented by Nike 6.0, Hurley and Converse. You might already be asking: with its massive waves and massive crowds, how can we top last year? While we may not be able to control Mother Nature — yet — we can assure you that this year’s US Open promises to be the most significant happening of the summer. It’s an Action Sports All-Star week, music festival and mega fashion showdown all rolled into one — and it’s going to keep you screaming for more for eight straight days. Here’s just a brief overview of what’s in store: Surf: Five events, more than $350,000 in prizemoney and the best surfers in the world on Surf City's center stage. What more can you ask for? Skate:The Converse Coastal Carnage will up the wattage this year, with a crew of heavy hitters, big prizemoney and the best beachside mini-bowl in the world. BMX The Nike 6.0 HB BMX Pro has quickly become an athlete and fan favorite. The best course + the best location + $100,000 in prizemoney = the best contest of the year. Walk The Walk: Project Runway meets Friday Night Football when five schools assemble for the Walk the Walk National Championships on the Microphone for Youth Stage. With a $25,000 donation and major bragging rights at stake, watch these kids redefine the term, "fashion show." Music: There's no better way to cap of an action-packed day in the water or on the ramp with a free concert from your favorite band. From 4 to 7 p.m. each evening, we'll be doing just that. And we guarantee these bands are at the top of your playlist. If the events themselves aren't enough, keep in mind that the US Open of Surfing attracted 500,000 people last year. There is something for everyone at the world's largest action sports festival, and we're looking forward to seeing you here. If you can't make it in person, rest assured that www.usopenofsurfing.com will keep you glued to your laptop. Major webcasts of all the above events. A morning and evening show. Heats on demand in surf, skate and BMX. Daily photo galleries, videos and stories. Everything you need to keep you informed, entertained and inspired. Stay tuned to www.usopenofsurfing.com over the next three months for updates, giveaways and more chances for YOU to get involved in the world's largest action sports event. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40256 Evan Slater Tuesday, May 4, 2010 Yeah, we know it was almost a year ago. But when you look back at the standout images, there's really no debate: it was, hands down, the best US Open in history. Here are our favorite images from the unforgettable event. Let's plan on doing it all over again in 2010. Even the lifeguards were on their toes. Bomb south swell, keeping it exciting. Brett Simpson, en route to the largest prize purse in surfing history.  Ready for battle: Slater makes his first HB appearance in years.  If you hadn't heard of Phantom Man, you knew him after this event.  16-year-old Courtney Conlogue put on the best women's performance in US Open history.  Andy Irons on one of the bigger ones of the event.  Curren Caples: miles ahead.  Standing room only at the Walk the Walk National Championship.  Walk the Walk: San Clemente wins fashion award.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40255 Evan Slater Monday, May 3, 2010 CHEYNE’S BACKSIDE 360 OP Pro, 1982 What a way to bring pro surfing back to the mainland. After a decade of no major events in Huntington (blame it on the ’70s), the then-equivalent of the ASP, International Pro Surfers, and clothing brand Ocean Pacific teamed up to create the $35,000 OP Pro. It had the crowd: a packed beach over 30,000 strong. It had the weather: blistering temps, windless, “Indian Summer” conditions and decent south swell. And it had the attractions: all the best surfers in the world, including rookie Tom Curren, along with a lineup of talent on the beach in the form of the Miss OP Bikini Contest. Now all it needed was the magic to make it unforgettable. And in the final of the first-ever OP Pro, in front of a roaring crowd rivaling a Stones concert, Cheyne Horan delivered that magic. Fellow finalist Shaun Tomson had been humming all event, but Horan — who had finished runner-up three years in a row — was equally in tune, disposing of fast-rising Curren in his quarterfinal heat. After a few big exchanges in the final, Tomson remembers sitting out the back when Horan took off on a seemingly harmless 3-footer. “It was a smaller one and kind of a closeout,” says Shaun. “So I didn’t think much of it. I watched him pump down the line backside, flip the nose up above the lip…then the crowd just went into a roar. It was one of those moments where — as a competitor — your heart just sinks. Like, ‘OK, it’s over.’” Cheyne’s backside 360 — the equivalent of pulling a huge backside air or rodeo flip at the time — didn’t just earn him the cash , a Dodge Truck and a temporary lead in the ratings. More important, it started the legend that is the OP Pro. A legend that lives on to this day.<p> Next week: the floater from hell.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40254 Evan Slater Monday, May 3, 2010 Boys finalists. Diego Mignot: best air.  Girls winner: Asaya Brusa.  Best local: Mikey Velasco.  Nome Mignot.  Mens winner Travis Southword.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40252 Evan Slater Monday, May 3, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH, California/USA (Monday, April 19, 2010) – ASP International has awarded PRIME status to this year’s US Open of Surfing presented by Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse at Huntington Beach. The ASP Technical Committee, comprised of representatives from the surfers, judges, events and ASP administrators, confirmed the awarding of ASP PRIME status to the event based on a variety of factors including: increase to a US $250,000 prize purse for the men, webcast quality, site infrastructure, marketability of the event, history and prestige of the event, the inclusion of a women’s ASP Star event , etc. “The US Open of Surfing is one of professional surfing’s longest-running and most prestigious events,” Brodie Carr, ASP Intl CEO, said. “The history that pumps through the sands of Huntington Beach is like nothing on Earth and Nike, Inc. have stepped up in a major way to provide the surfers, the fans and the sport a landmark event in the heart of the surfing industry. We’re thrilled to announce the awarding of ASP PRIME status to the 2010 US Open of Surfing and hope the swell delivers once again this season.” Brett Simpson (USA), 25, defending US Open winner and 2010 ASP Dream Tour rookie, posted the biggest win of his young career at home in Huntington Beach last season, and the awarding of ASP PRIME status to this season’s event has the progressive natural-footer fired up for a repeat performance. “I couldn’t be happier,” Simpson said. “It’s a huge addition to this year’s high class ASP Prime series. It always turns out to be one of the more dramatic events of the year, and the addition of ASP Prime status is indicative of the prestige and audience numbers surrounding the event. The top surfers come to Surf City in the prime time of summer as they battle it out in the biggest arena on the globe. Home sweet home!” Pat O’Connell (USA), 38, former ASP World Tour competitor and Hurley’s VP of Sports Marketing, echoed these statements, citing last year’s banner event as a game-changer for both Hurley and the sport of surfing. "Last year, the stars aligned for the best US Open in memory," O’Connell said. "We're excited to have the support of the ASP and surfers to get back to HB and make the event even bigger and better this year. With Nike 6.0 and Converse as our partners, I'm confident we're going to deliver. The event is owned and produced by IMG Action Sports, a division of IMG Worldwide; the premier global sports, entertainment and media company. The US Open of Surfing pres. by Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse will run from August 2 – 8, 2010 at Huntington Beach in California. For more information, log onto www.aspworldtour.com or www.aspnorthamerica.org. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40202 Evan Slater Friday, April 30, 2010 HUNTINGTON BEACH and LOS ANGELES, Calif. – IMG Action Sports today announced a multi-year sponsorship agreement with NIKE, Inc. for the prestigious U.S. Open of Surfing, www.usopenofsurfing.com, staged July 31 to August 8 in Huntington Beach, California. Building upon last year’s historic event that showcased epic waves, 500,000 fans and record prize money, the dynamic relationship integrates NIKE, Inc. brands Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse and the sports of surf, skate and BMX into the U.S Open to create one of the largest and most innovative properties in action sports. “As we saw last year, there’s no better ‘surf stadium’ than Huntington Beach,” says Bob Hurley, Hurley Founder and Chairman. “We’re always looking to improve the experience both in the water and on the sand, and we’re excited to continue working with Nike 6.0 and Converse to help make that happen in 2010 and beyond.” The U.S. Open of Surfing is owned and produced by IMG Action Sports, a division of IMG Worldwide; the premier global sports, entertainment and media company. Founded in 1994, the U.S. Open is the world’s largest professional surfing competition, and hosts hundreds of world-class athletes along with music, fashion and youth culture. Boasting a rich history dating back to 1959, the massive event boasts North America’s only combined six-star World Qualifying Series (WQS)-rated men’s and women’s events and is a pivotal point on the ASP World Tour. The 12 acre festival is held adjacent to the famed pier. “Last year’s relationship with Hurley, Nike 6.0 and Converse provided a glimpse of the U.S. Open of Surfing’s true potential,” said James Leitz, IMG Action Sports SVP.  “The NIKE, Inc. action sports family raised the bar in all areas and continues an aggressive push towards excellence in 2010.” “Some of our best creative work comes out of the collaboration of our three brands,” said Sandy Bodecker, Vice President of Global Design and Action Sports for NIKE, Inc. “Our goal is to help transform the US Open into one of the most exciting sporting moments of the summer.” http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40201 Evan Slater Friday, April 30, 2010 Kuta Beach, Bali (Sunday April 25th, 2010): Today Canggu's Jeren Kiring surfed his way to victory over a highly competitive field of talented junior surfers at 'Halfway' Kuta Beach to wrap up the three-part Rusty Gromfest Series Bali 2010. Jeren has been the standout surfer of the series with finals births at both Keramas and Pererenan and following his win today at Kuta has cemented his reputation of being Indonesia's top grom. As the overall under 16 division champion Jeren was awarded a free, expenses paid trip to Australia to compete in the 15th annual Rusty Gromfest held at Lennox Head in July. "I'm really happy to win this event and the series," beamed Jeren after the podium presentation. "I can't wait to surf Lennox Head, Snapper Rocks and all the great waves in Australia... but first, it's time to celebrate!" Other notable performances today came from Koko Mitsua, Nyoman Blacky, and Mansur Ramlin, who was in top form in the early rounds and managed to stick several tweaked 360 reverses. In the under 14 division Jay Esquival from the Philippines was on fire, securing excellent scoring rides in all his heats by taking to the air. In the final Nyoman Alit snatched victory from under Komang Sastrawan's nose, with favorite Jay Esquival coming 3rd, and Andre Anwar in 4th. As the overall under 14 division winner, Komang Sastrawan received a tricked out Sony PSP and a new handphone from Sony Ericsson. This year at each junior event Coca-Cola ISC has rewarded the ’surfer that shows the most potential’ with a new custom surfboard. Today ‘Bomer’ from Sumbawa claimed the new board and he was visibly pumped. All finalists received awesome prizes in the form of Rusty clothing packs, Sony Ericsson handphones, Creatures grips and leashes, free surfboard art and repairs from Freedom surfshop, plus other products from event sponsors Sabre, Macbeth, Stomp, Zinka, and Walls. The Rusty Gromfest Series Bali 2010, held in conjunction with the Coca-Cola ISC Junior Tour, has once again been a great success that was made possible with the generous support of the local communities at Keramas, Pererenan, and Kuta. See you again next year! Gromfest Halfway Results: Under 14 1. Nyoman Alit 2. Komang Sastrawan 3. Jay R. Esquivel 4. Andre Anwar Under 16 1. Jeren Kiring 2. Nyoman Blacky 3. Mansur Ramlin 4. Koko Mitsua Overall Rusty Gromfest Series Bali 2010 Rankings: Under 14 1. Komang Sastrawan (4425) 2. Agus Saputra (4000) 3. Komang Bereng (3439) Under 16 1. Jeren Kiring (6200) 2. Nyoman Blacky (4582) 3. Ediana Putra (4500) http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40196 Evan Slater Thursday, April 29, 2010 This last weekend i flew up to virginia with eg and jake" ze grom" mcguire. We met up with pj raia from new jersey.  I was taking our amateur team riders down to buxton, NC to compete in the last surfing america prime event. The waves were pretty small the first couple days but we had a couple fun sessions together. The first day of the contest was about ankle to knee high. Really tough conditions to surf and evan was the only guy to make it through to the last day. By the time the finals came it was overhead and side shore lefts. It was hard to surf but perfect for eg with left air sections everywhere.. He ended up winning with his last wave in the under 18 division to make that seven wins this year already. After they gave out the awards we packed up quickly cause we heard it was head high and offshore up north in town. we ended up finding really fun waves and getting barreled for our last session before we had to head back to virginia to get our flights home.  Check out the expn blog from our last session here. — Asher http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40179 Asher Nolan Wednesday, April 28, 2010 Almost a month without proper waves to hold the Hurley Pro , we waited this past Thursday with bated breath. We arrived early in the morning and, judging the alternatives, we decided to go for it. The event was ON. When the light started to come up we could see some rights breaking down giving us a good sign for a good day of surf at the Hurley Pro. The event started up with the grommet's hits and followed by the junior, the young surfers showed that they trained well for this event. In the end it was Dean Almog who showed them how it is done with a domination through out the event. In the womens, it was a battle between Tal Sporta and Roni Eshel up until the end. Tal, 2009 Israeli champion, showed off her new tricks and claimed the final with a friend's board after breaking hers in the semis. The open was full of surprises. Vovka Mariles, who was one of the favorite of this event, held down his quarter heat. Five-time Israeli champ Aviv Vakin came up short in the semi. In the final, Hurley teamrider Moshe Peretz nailed his first victory with a nice tuberide. In the background, with the sun setting on Tel Aviv, the Blue Pill band played an emotional performance in front of the "big blue," closing the Hurley Pro. —Shai http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40166 Evan Slater Monday, April 26, 2010 Rachael Tilly won the ISF Middle School State Championships down in Oceanside this past weekend. Keep in mind this was her rookie year in middle school. A huge accomplishment. More importantly, she also won the ISF Scholar Award, which is an award given to the finalist with the highest GPA. Way to go, Rachael! http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40165 Evan Slater Monday, April 26, 2010 RSVP for the event here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40153 Evan Slater Wednesday, April 21, 2010 Somewhere Near Tapachula is the heartfelt true story of Mision Mexico, a children's refuge started by Australian couple Alan and Pam Skuse. Based in Tapachula, Chiapas (on the southern coast of Mexico) this inspiring documentary focuses on Mision Mexico Boardriders Club, the unique surf community of orphaned, abused and homeless children. Directed and produced by Australian surf filmmakers Stefan Hunt and Jonno Durrant of Surfing 50 States, the film premiers at Newport Beach International Film Festival on Sunday 25th April 2010 at 3pm at Edwards Island 3 and will tour around the USA. Stefan, Jonno and Pam Skuse will be in attendance. For the first time the Skuses and the kids of Mision Mexico, tell their phenomenal tale of survival, love, hope and surfing. Documenting the stories of the 54 children of Mision Mexico, who have come from places of unimaginable poverty, trauma and abuse; and their experiences of healing and transformation through surfing, faith and love. The film is a powerful lesson on the important things in life, and the power of riding waves, whether you are a surfer or not. With 6 kids of their own in Australia, Pam and Alan set off for Tapachula in November 2000 to volunteer for 12 months at the Mision Mexico orphanage where their daughter had previously volunteered. Shortly into their stay the major benefactor withdrew and the kids were to be turned onto the street. The couple’s volunteering adventure quickly turned into a life saving mission and Mision Mexico, Giving Love, Life and Hope was born. Mision Mexico’s mum and narrator Pam Skuse says: “In their short lives the children of Mision Mexico have experienced things that most of today’s society will never experience. Surfing is a potent form of therapy for these children. The ocean is not just a place of fun; it’s an escape from what life used to be for them. Through Mision Mexico we provide a family and community which supports, guides, disciplines, encourages, and directs these children to better themselves.” “Surfing is something special, it’s not just a sport its part of my life, I feel like I don’t need anything more, I don’t need to take drugs, there is nothing better than surfing” says Jose one of Mision Mexico’s 18 year olds, also a former street kid who was caught up with drugs and gang violence at the age of 9. The filmmakers, Aussie surfers Stefan Hunt and Jonno Durrant got involved in Mision Mexico when they were asked to donate a DVD of their documentary Surfing 50 States. Moved by the children’s plight Stefen decided to volunteer for two months. Touched by the truly inspirational story, Stefan asked Jonno to join him and bring some camera equipment, which they borrowed from Walking On Water productions, and Somewhere Near Tapachula was born. 11 months later, and the wacky duo Jonno and Stefan have completed their second award winning* feature documentary and a massive Australia tour. The film was screened at 24 venues, over 3000 people attended and $80,000 was raised for Mision Mexico. "We were so touched and inspired by the amazing work of Pam and Alan Skuse, that I felt the story had to be shared. We are thrilled to be attending the North American Premiere at Newport Beach Film Festival, and even more excited that Pam Skuse will be in attendance also” says Stefan Hunt. “Newport Beach is our home away from home as most of the film was edited just down the road and Hurley is based here and they have helped us so much with this film”. "100% of the profits from Somewhere Near Tapachula will be donated to the Mision Mexico 'Future Fund'. This will allow kids to attend university and follow their dreams, something they never thought was possible" says Jonno Durrant. For more information visit www.somewhereneartapachula.com. RSVP for the event here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40152 Evan Slater Wednesday, April 21, 2010 [Editor's note: Brock submitted this a month ago, which dates it even more. Our bad for not posting it. Still, it's as relevant as ever.] I wrote this blog a long time ago. I thought I sent it in, but obviously I didn't. I feel a lot better than I did back then. Sitting around hurt led to some depression, and thoughts about getting old. I should write a blog on it, but no one wants to hear me whine. I'm lucky, my shoulder is fine, ribs all good, and I just surfed 10 ft. Lanis. I was planning on writing this blog before I wrote my last one. I've got a sore shoulder and for some reason, I feel like writing. My last blog will explain why my shoulder is sore. I feel like pretending the last blog didn't happen. It's been about 4 weeks since the ribs got hurt. The Eddie happened about 1 and a half weeks ago. Sorry to be such a wimp about my ribs, just setting up the story. I'm ready to go surfing, Waimea is 12 to 15, and looks fun. Waimea seemed like a good wave to get my feet back on my board. It has a big channel and at 15ft. it isn't very hard to surf. I was out for about half an hour, catching all kinds of waves. I had a couple of good ones, a couple of wipeouts. It felt good to be in the water after a month off. In general, I was taking off pretty deep, right on the boil, when a 15ft. wave came in. I swung around and went. A couple of guys dropped in on me, so I decided to jump off when I got to the bottom of the wave. I was suprised how much power the wave had where I jumped. I must have been right on the boil. Anyway, the wave tossed me around pretty good, but I was fighting it, and about to get to the surface. Right when I thought I was going to get some air, the wave shoved me down deep. Now we got problems. I didn't get a good breath before I went under, and now I was super deep. I figured if I fought, I'd come up in the next wave. I tried to relax, and slowly make my way to the surface. As I was coming up, I could hear the next wave rumbling towards me, so I kind of went limp. I knew I shouldn't waste energy. The second wave finally came over me. Luckly, it wasn't very strong, and it didn't really push me back down. I made my way to the surface, and got a fricken breath. I couldn't believe it, the first 2 wave hold down of my long life. I got married on Waimea point. I pretty much made a career out of surfing the place. I grew up 5 minutes away. I should feel comfortable out there. At any size the place scares me. I've come close to dying out there a few times. Every time I begin to feel good about my relationship with the bay, the place tries to kill me. I'm not sure what I'm trying to say, but as I sit here with my dislocated shoulder (from Waimea), I just wish the place would give me a break, and I don't mean the physical kind.— Brock http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40136 Evan Slater Tuesday, April 20, 2010      Fellowship of christian Athletes , and Cliff Jenkins hosted 95 plus kids for a FCA event ! I got asked to be the guest speaker for the morning ,and boy was i in for a treat ! The kids were all so pumped on the morning !!!! I mean when is the last time you could get almost 100 kids to meet before school at 7:45 in the am. Needless to say the kids gave me their attention for a short Q&A , and encouraging word. Then it was Hurley time !!!! Stickers and lanyards went the distance for all that came out ! These guys were awesome ! Till next time - Always Believe !!! Noah Snyder http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40135 Noah Snyder Tuesday, April 20, 2010 Been a long fun month for me. at first after scoring some late winter surf, a couple nssa comps came around. I ended up winning event 9 in the open season in pumping surf at creek. the week after that was the nssa states and really enjoyed doing that event it was a differnt vibe because it a team event and its my last year in school so i was gonna try to do my best. I ended up winning that event as well and it was really nice to win in front of the home crowd with everyone coming down to support me. Right after the comp I ended up goin to australia with the huntington high surf team. we stayed and hung out around bells for the beginning of the contest and got to see brett compete and support him. After that we ended up going to sydney and got to stay with my friend max weston in avalon. I had such a great time gettin to stay with such a great family and surf some different spots like narrabean and experience a different lifestyle for a few weeks. we even went to the zoo to check out some animals and do some out of the ordinary stuff and it was an awesome experience. now im home just goin to school, trying to get some boards all dialed in, and getting some photos. great to be home surfing with friends and having some home cooked meals. alright enough reading for you go surfing,              saenzy http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40125 Christian Saenz Sunday, April 18, 2010 This past weekend our team rider Evan Geiselman continued his dominance this year at the Landshark pro in his hometown New Smyrna. EG took out both the junior pro and men’s pro divisions, earning him a 7500-dollar payday. This contest is one of the biggest events of the year on the East Coast and the competition was very strong. Evan didn’t want to let his local rival Aaron Cormican win the event like last year, and he pulled it off with a big air in the final to take him down at the end. He actually beat Cormican all three times that he had to surf against him. This year has already been amazing for him. EG won both the Sebastian Pro Junior and the Sebastian Prime event. The Land Shark Pro is overall his best accomplishment, just because of winning at his hometown in front of his family and friends. Another one of our team riders Michael Dunphy made a big presence in the event. He finished second behind Evan in the junior pro, making it a Hurley sweep. In the men’s division he was blazing through each round but came up a little short in the semifinal. Overall it was a great turnout for the contest and Evan G dominated the event! —Asher For full results, check out www.landsharkpro2010.com Evan Geiselman is on a hot streak, and there's no signs of a cool-down. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40121 Evan Slater Sunday, April 18, 2010 What a great day yesterday was... Barton Lynch being the good guy he is got Hurley on board to help out some super awesome local kids. The day was great, it began at 9.30 am down at Dee Why beach with a fun surf session There were roughly 20 grommets down there and hardly any of them had surfed before, by the end of the session the majority of them had stood up, of course BL was a huge part of that happening as he was in the line up pushing them into waves all morning. After the surf session it was into Hurley HQ to say G'Day and eat lunch with the staff. The Hurley Crew shared our world a little and the kids enjoyed the whole experience!Steffan Hunt, one of the men behind 'Surfing 50 States' and Somewhere Near Tapachula' came along and made a cool little edit that you will see soon! -- MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40110 Mitch Ross Thursday, April 15, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40092 Evan Slater Tuesday, April 13, 2010 What a season for Evan Geiselman. Tons of media coverage. A Surfing America win. A Pro Junior win. And now another stellar showing at the NSSA Easterns. Geiselman finished first in Explorer Juniors, first in the airshow and second in Open Mens at Sebastian Inlet this past weekend. The event gives him a record-breaking 15 wins at the Easterns and some serious "mo" going into the Surfing America Championships and NSSA Nationals coming up this summer. Another job well done from the East Coast's best in show.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40070 Evan Slater Monday, April 12, 2010 Hurley likes artists who push the boundaries a bit, and UK painter Charming Baker is one of those artists. He recently teamed up with Green Day manager Pat Magnarella for a big boost of publicity and elevation to "rock star status" in the art world. The Overachievers. Judging from the reception to his controversial videos on youtube (a painting blasted with shotgun, an interactive painting of Christ's cross), he's getting noticed. As Baker told altsounds.com, "The effect I'm aiming for is that slightly unnerving feeling you get when you have your arse patted in public —but you're not exactly sure who's patting it." Let's Start a Rumor.  Be sure to check out Baker's New York Show, STUPID HAS A NEW HERO, opening May 14 and running through May 30 at NYSG, 154 Stanton Street on New York's Lower East Side. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40047 Evan Slater Friday, April 9, 2010 At it once again and continuing on his incredible form in 2010 is Mitch Crews... This time in Cronulla he proved too strong for rivals such as, Chris Friend, Garret Parkes and Davey Cathels... Already 4000 points ahead of the pack entering the event it was Crews who pinned his ears back and proved to be to good winning the final with a couple of solid scores which totaled 15.25 points Below are Mitch's results for the year, Jan 3-7 Bells Beach, Victoria-Australia Quiksilver Jetty Surf Pro Junior- 2nd Place Jan 22-26 Burleigh Heads,Qld-Australia Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior- 3rd Place Feb 1-5 Gold Coast,Qld-Australia Couran Cove Island Resort Pro Junior- 2nd Place Feb 9-13 Nth Stradbroke Island,Qld-Australia Oakley Pro Junior- 1st Place Mar 4-7 Merewether, Newcastle,NSW-Australia CHIKO Pro Junior- 1st Place Mar 15-19 Tuanotu-Tahiti 2010 Tahiti Nui Sattelite RANGIROA PRO JUNIOR - 2nd Place Apr 3-7 Cronulla,NSW-Australia Geared Pro Junior- 1st Place   Keep an eye out on Mitch to see when he locks the series up!   MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40038 Mitch Ross Wednesday, April 7, 2010 The Rip Curl Pro at Bells can be a challenging event. Extended lay-days. Non-stop "festivals." A little chilly. But so far, our boys have survived the test. Round Two went yesterday in some chunky conditions at Thirteenth Beach, about 10 miles east of Bells. Due to the bleak conditions at the famed right point, organizers are looking at all of the surrounding area's options.  Ace dominated his Round One heat, going straight to Round Three. Brett narrowly lost Round One, so he had to face Kekoa Bacalso in Round Two. It was classic California vs. Hawaiian battle, but Simpson found the conditions to be a lot closer to HB than Sunset Beach. toward the middle of the heat, he let a big alley-oop fly, stuck it, and netted a high 7 for the single maneuver. "I've had a tough couple of heats," he said. "Hopefully this last one gets me in rhythm again." If true, it couldn't be better timing. Brett faces Adriano De Souza in the first heat of Round Three. Ace also has a tough one against small-wave maestro Jeremy Flores.  But we have faith. If we've learned anything from Brett and Ace's stint at Bells so far, it's this: they're survivors.  To see Brett's Round Two heat, go here and click on Heat 13. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40035 Evan Slater Tuesday, April 6, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/40032 Evan Slater Monday, April 5, 2010 A one week vacation down to the Caribbean was well worth it. The time has finally come to where we can all eagerly say that the brutal chills of the winter are behind us. Of course I am referring to "we" as the ones who are sitting up here in the northern hemisphere that absolutely froze our "Inconvenient Truths" off this winter. Speaking on behalf of all of "us", I can say that we are filled with joy and relief that those times are finally over for another few months, at least. For a majority of this winter, I was trapped inside my neglected, unkempt home watching re-runs of Seinfeld, solving sudoku puzzles, and eating apple pies like your average american citizen. Because of this extended period of blandness, which was brought on due to the weather, I decided to cut my losses and head south to paradise with my loving girlfriend. Our destination of choice for the trip was Dominican Republic. This trip was an overall success and it had done what I had initially wanted it to do: Alleviate the pain of the mind-numbingly cold weather that has plagued the eastern seaboard this year.-- Ben Powell http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39977 Evan Slater Wednesday, March 31, 2010 Hurley's had plenty of noteworthy celebs show up on campus. But when Prince, Dr. Phil, Mr. T, Hall and Oates, Gallagher, Cheech and Chong and Tom Cruise make an appearance on the same day, you know something special is happening. The awesomeness that is Moustache March got a whole lot awesomer this year with more and more dudes using that strip above their lip as a license to get freaky.  And man, did they get freaky. Wally Sato, Crawford. Smiley, Solow and Marsi. Bruce and Jorge. Prince. And Tom Cruise aka Aaron Belchere, all bringing down the house in their own special way.  Of course, none of this would have been possible without our Ambassador of Fun, Robby Adams, making it all happen and providing the bacon. (mmmm, bacon) On top of that, we raised almost $1,000 for the Orangewood Foundation.  Not a bad for an afternoon of shenanigans. Alas, all that fun must eventually come to an end. (Except for Weber and Valle, who will be wearing their side-effects for months.) Time to bust out those razors and start plotting for next year.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39969 Evan Slater Monday, March 29, 2010 Hurley family member and former pro surfer Jodie Nelson has seen her fair share of challenges. Which couldn't have been better preparation for her biggest challenge to date: stand-up paddling from Catalina to Dana Point — solo — in the name of breast cancer awareness. She completed the monumental task today, finishing the 39-plus-mile crossing in nine hours and fifteen minutes. She couldn't have picked a better day to do it, as a big group of friends, loved ones and well-wishers were there to greet her in hot, slack-wind, summer-like conditions. According to friends on the assist boat, she never wavered the entire paddle. Nelson, whose mom and good friend have both battled breast cancer, has received tons of press coverage on her mission, with regular features on local news stations and updates on KFI. All the well-deserved publicity has gotten her closer to her goal of $100,000 for breast cancer research, but she still needs your help. Go here to make your donation now. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39885 Evan Slater Sunday, March 28, 2010 Los Angeles artist Jason Hernandez creates beautifully haunting works on paper and wood panels, from Bosch-inspired triptych paintings to detailed drawings of tortured souls and many-eyed monsters. Hernandez's pieces are not only truly an 11th Century type of awesome, evoking a biblical dread mixed with veneration, but also the skateboarder / surfer dude type of awesome. OK, gross. An Art Center of Design graduate with an illustration degree, Hernandez flexes his knowledge of intricate line work, harmonious balance and composition, and use of negative space in works such as The Evolution of Man, The Gene Pool Curse, and The Open Sea. Mainly working with a black and red palette, Hernandez's artworks explore eschatological and religious motifs as well as cosmological. “I definitely have an interest in Medieval Art as well as Flemish art of the 14th and 15th centuries,” he says. “Mainly because of their depiction of theological concepts. I've been getting into Cosmology and our relationship with the cosmos as well as the Heavens.”   I Am Master of the Universe.  To create his devilishly delightful masterpieces, he draws like a man possessed with only an image in his mind, sometimes finishing a drawing in a day or taking up to two weeks. “I don't really plan out my drawings,” he writes, “I just start out with a figure and keep up my momentum until I run out of fuel.” In Bats, Flames and Agony, Hernandez takes a simple image and expounds on it: “By the time I had a man getting eaten by another giant I knew I was headed in a hellish, Dante's Inferno direction. While drawing the piece I thought it would be interesting if the image could be viewed in either direction, upside down, or sideways.” As a result, Hernandez transformed his original piece with the use of multiple perspectives and focal points, conveying a sense of agony, torture, and well . . . Hell. It's like there's two artists working within his head. “It's kind of like playing exquisite corpse with myself.” (Or Dungeons & Dragons one might add.) Sea of Terror.  Just as intricate as his drawings, Hernandez's paintings are definitely more epic in scope and scale. By integrating techniques and motifs such as Latin text, triptych panels, fantastical imagery and grotesque beasts into his paintings, Hernandez evokes non-secular, moral and biblical narratives and themes to his works. For example, in The 7 Sins, Hernandez hand-built his triptych panel and painted scene of Purgatory, Paradise and Hell while in I Am Master of The Universe, Hernandez incorporates the use of Latin text as well as gold leafing. For Hernandez these techniques can be as challenging as painting: “The gold leafing is a grueling process…it just tears apart in your hand [and] if you’re not tearing it apart you’re blowing it away as you breathe.” Hernandez found inspiration early on in cartoons such as Ninja Turtles and Ghostbusters and almost found himself working in animation; however, he gave that up long ago to pursue work as a gallery artist. “I guess it beats drawing the same thing 150 times,” he jokes. Currently, Hernandez is designing a series of shirts for a company called 1910co., and preparing for his first solo show at Black Maria Gallery in June 2010. –Michael Hsiung / Hurley Art For more on Jason Hernandez’s art, go here. I Will Either Find A Way.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39842 Evan Slater Monday, March 22, 2010 Top Pro Junior surfer Mitch Crews remained on a roll this past weekend when he finished runner-up at the TNS Rangiroa Pro Junior. The event was a record-breaker in terms of surf, with flawless righthand barrels producing a handful of perfect scores at the Tahitian outer island. Mitch stayed on it through to the end, losing a close one to Tahitian Tamaroa McComb. The event keeps Crews on top of the Aussie Pro Junior rankings. Right on, Mitch! http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39835 Evan Slater Sunday, March 21, 2010 Both Adrian Buchan and Yadin Nicol survived huge conditions at the Drug Aware Pro at Margaret River, WA. The sea was angry, roughly 8 to 12 foot with a few bigger ones! The pair surfed the big conditions with ease, and dominated up until the quarters. Unfortunately, Yadin fell to current world no. 1 Taj Burrow and Ace went down to Josh Kerr. But it's still a solid result with this being a prime event.  Big-wave tales and big results for Ace and Yadin. A great start to 2010! —MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39831 Mitch Ross Friday, March 19, 2010 Yesterday I went to San'O for a surf session and the waves were ripping. The rights and lefts were just lining up perfectly. I got some really fun waves. Some of them i would ride all the way in, and having it low tide, i would have to do a belly flop onto the rocks. I went right after school and left when it was dark. One of my rights i got a really nice hang five and the banked left and got another nice hang five and a quick hang 10. That session was the best and i didn't wasnt to get out but the problem was i couldn't paddle. My arms turned to Spaggtti!!!! Well I was just really excited about that surf session and I wanted to tell people about it!!! Thanks for reading!    Rachael http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39825 Seaweed Thursday, March 18, 2010 Jon MacNair could easily have illustrated the Grimm's Fairy Tales back in 1812, and though Jon probably wouldn't admit it, he might even have an extensive knowledge of orcs and elves, THAC0's and polyhedral dice–Dungeons & Dragons speak, for the uninitiated. Bad Deed.  And like the kids in trench coats who hung out in libraries, Jon was exposed to fantasy in the literature– The Chronicles of Narnia and A Wrinkle in Time– and VHS stylings of The Hobbit and The Neverending Story, which would seep into his artwork, like black ooze. Creating his world was a long gradual progress, emanating from daily sketchbook drawings and posting doodles on his blog. He's compared the process of creating his artistic netherworld to that of a fiction writer where once characters are created, they begin to dictate their own actions. A creepy thought. And like a writer, Jon's creative process begins with a word(s) and/or phrase(s), which then morph into thumbnail sketches. Through the process of erasing, penciling, and more erasing, his ideas eventually transmogrify into his dreamlike worlds in which alien flora and tentacled trees intermix with dark cosmic backgrounds filled with full moons and bright stars. A place where all the hills have eyes, and even the mounds of dirt too. Harvesting Tears. Thematically, Jon's artwork captures certain moments or “vignettes” like a frozen glimpse to the pre-creation of nature, the world and universe. Like legends and folklore from ancient times from every culture in the world, MacNair's world mirrors that of our own, but by making the familiar unfamiliar and the strange, even stranger in order to convey an observation about the human condition – survival, power, loss, death, and fear. With titles ranging from the mystical and mythological (Some Sort of Mystical Explanation and Consulting the Wise One) and to the mundane and humorous (Mobile Home and Evicted) Jon isn't all fire and brimstone; he's got a humorous side, albeit a subtle gallow's humor. Mystical.  Jon will be haunting the spring issue of Beautiful Decay as well as in The Washington Review. His works will show at galleries in Glasgow, Culver City, and Buenos Aires in 2010. —Michael Hsiung / Hurley Art For more on Jon MacNair, go here. Wise One.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39811 Evan Slater Monday, March 15, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39810 Evan Slater Monday, March 15, 2010 Two in a row! That's what our boy, Evan "Golden" Geiselman just pulled off this week at Sebastian Inlet. It started last weekend at the Hurley Surfing America Prime, and it finished today at the Ron Jon Sebastian Inlet Pro Junior. He took out Keanu Asing, Gabe Garcia and Chase Wilson in the final, and is now in the lead of the North America Pro Junior ratings. This was a big event. A Grade 3 Pro Junior means major points toward the ultimate goal of qualifying for the overall Pro Junior World Championships. Judging from Evan's form today, I'd say he's well on his way. EG makes it a double at the Ron Jon Sebastian Inlet Pro Junior.  Our other teamriders also represented well. Conner Coffin went hard and made it to the semis. And Michael Dunphy did his thing and finished equal ninth. But today — and this week — was ultimately all about Evan. In some difficult surf, he managed to fit in turns and airs where others couldn't. EG: too much to handle. PHOTO: MEZ/EASTERNSURF.COM Congrats to Evan, Conner and Michael. Next stop on the Pro Junior tour: Huntington Beach, March 24. —Asher For more coverage on the Ron Jon Sebastian Inlet Pro Junior, be sure to go the one-stop-shop for all East Coast surf news, www.easternsurf.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39804 Evan Slater Friday, March 12, 2010 “Portland is full of vibrant energy, ecologically conscious folks, affordable living, healthy environment, good food, inspiring music and art, mosses and mushrooms…” Listening to the husband-and-wife art duo Apak rave about their home base in the woods of Oregon, it would be easy to believe that they’re actually describing the fantastical dreamscapes of their warm, personable works. It’s a world of vibrant, muted color and a congruent sense of wonder unity between man, animal and environment, courtesy of the “Rainbow Children” that populate the pair’s wide range of products. While gouache/acrylic paintings on wood are their primary medium, the produce everything from t-shirts to postcards to “Kokeshi,” traditional Japanese wooden dolls. Tinlark.  “The Rainbow Children represent pure vibrating light and harmonious flowing life energy,” they explain. “We believe everyone has a rainbow child inside.” Apak grew out of the love relationship of Aaron and Piland and Ayumi Kajikawa, who met in art school. “We were invited to be in a show together and thought it would be fun to collaborate on the same pieces together, and we got a good response from the Portland art community.” Pilans recalls. “Since then, we’ve shown work in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Edinburgh, Melbourne, and Paris to name a few. For us, love and art are intertwined. Art is our tool for expressing our love for each other and the universe. We’re fortunate to be able to focus on our art surrounded by this beauty, and not worry so much about making money.” Lucky Tigers. Apak happily characterize their own harmonious working relationship “as pretty defined, but it varies, too. Usually Aaron sets up the mood and environment with his fantastic and other worldly influenced plants and structures. Then I join in and let my characters play and explore the environments,” laughs Ayumi. “Those are the basic APAK roles. Lately, we are enjoying not talking about the pieces and waiting to see what mysteries get revealed to us.” “It’s like we’re playing a game where one of us starts a sentence and the other finishes it, except we’re not using words,” elaborates Aaron. “It’s a visual conversation, and the result is a painting. Sometimes we can anticipate what the other will say, but then other times we’ll be completely surprised. Those tend to be our favorites pieces.” –by Scott Sterling / Hurley Art For more on Apak, go here. Lotus Eaters.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39798 Evan Slater Thursday, March 11, 2010 "Vote for Ollie" is our new slogan for a while. Because Hurley's Oliver Kurtz is locked deep in a battle for a slot in Taylor Steele's next video. It's called Innersection, and it's the first time Taylor's sent out an invitation to the entire world to be in his next video. The only catch: you have to be voted in, and it'll be happening during four separate "quarters" during the year. Five guys per quarter, 20 surfers total. Oliver's one of 16 surfers to submit a video for the first quarter, and his effort is solid. Granted, the majority is filmed in Florida slop, but Kurtz still gets the job done. Check the video here. And remember: vote for Ollie. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39797 Evan Slater Thursday, March 11, 2010 Hello People! I don't know if anybody is reading this but this is my first blog! My name is Rachael Tilly and I am 11 years old. I am sponsored by Dewey Weber, Hurley, and Smart Girls Who Surf. So now that we have introductions over with I can tell you about yesterday's after-school session. It was super windy and i went down to one of my local spots, T-Street. No one was out because it was super blown out. So i went out and I got a quick, fun session. The wind made it a little frustrating but i adapted to the conditions and got some pretty good waves. The lefts were longer than the rights but i did get a fun right. I paddled really hard for it and i caught it and ended up getting two nosrides on it. One of my lefts I got this air drop that was really cool. Also, when I was getting out of the water this wave snuck up behind me and knocked me right off my feet! haha. So overall it was a fun session! Thanks for reading my first blog. I'm really excited! Rachael http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39796 Seaweed Thursday, March 11, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39791 Evan Slater Wednesday, March 10, 2010 The Hurley Surfing America Prime went down this past weekend at Sebastian Inlet. With a solid little north swell and cold northerly winds blowing the whole time, it made for some tough conditions for the kids. Lots of closeouts and big chops made it extremely hard to get good scores. In the Under 18 division, Evan Geiselman and Evan Thompson battled the whole time, throwing out 8s and 7s in both their semis and the final.But it was Evan "Golden” Geiselman who shined the brightest in the finals with quick and solid surfing. Hurley team rider Jake McGuire also surfed really well in the under 16 division and placed a respectable third place. Good job boys! —AN For more on the event, go to www.surfingamerica.org. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39788 Evan Slater Tuesday, March 9, 2010 Today Mitch Crews continued his hot streak, this time taking out the Chico Pro Junior, all a part of Newcastle's Mark Richards Surfest. Once again it was Davey Cathels who battled Crews for the win and once again it was Mitch who got the win. This pair are building a great little rivalry. Mitch is currenlty ranked number 1 and Cathels number 2... In the 16's division at the same event in Newcastle, Cooper Chapman won again, this guy has been on a tear of late, too!   Go, Boys!—MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39781 Mitch Ross Sunday, March 7, 2010 Meet the future James Camerons and Katie Courics of the world. At the Student Television Network's Annual National Convention this past week at Disneyland Hotel, more than 1800 kids with black belts in creativity converged for a series of film competitions. There was a Public Service Announcement, a 16-hour killer that challenged students to build an entire piece around a single word. And then there was the commercial contest. This year, Hurley extended its microphone and asked the students to come up with their version of a Phantom Boardshort commercial, with the winning team getting a trip to the 2010 US Open of Surfing to join our film crew. We'll be posting more galleries, videos and the winning entries soon, but in the meantime, check our gallery from last night's "Carnival." Remember these faces. You could be working for one of them very soon. For the full Carnival gallery, check our Facebook page. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39588 Evan Slater Friday, March 5, 2010   <b>This winter has been abnormally cold and flat.</b>  i think i surfed three times from january till around the sixth of February.  it was kind of nice because i got too hang with my daughter everyday and catch up on work and home-life. but eventually i got the surfing itch back and had too get out of jacksonville.      I saw a clean swell going down to puerto rico with good conditions so i hopped on a plane down there. The first week we got great waves and a heavy left that was a memorable session. After that i hopped on another plane and met some friends farther south on the island guadeloupe for a surfing magazine trip. This was the first time too this island so it was all new territory too explore. We surfed some fun waves and had a funny awesome time.   After that it was back to puerto rico for the rincon corona contest. The surf was really fun but i got knocked out in the third round. I couldn't find a wave in that heat. The heat before i only stood up on one wave but luckily it was a nine. For some reason the ocean kept on going flat when i was in position. it was still a great contest and i got too see some young puerto rican rippers so hopefully we will work on having a awesome Hurley puerto rico team in the near future.   It was a great three weeks in the Caribbean. Now I'm back in florida and its cold and flat. Hopefully this pattern will change soon or i might  head back down too the good life.   Asher   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39396 Asher Nolan Friday, March 5, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39392 Evan Slater Friday, March 5, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39327 Evan Slater Thursday, March 4, 2010 Timmy Curran is evolving. Yes, he remains one of California's greatest talents. Yes, he still dreams of new variations on the flip. But he's also expanding his horizons. He talks all about it in a recent interview on ESPN.com, so be sure to check it out. For more on his new album, "Verses," go here. For more on his new film project with Josh Landan, Union Express, go here. PHOTO: CHRIS BURKARD http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39326 Evan Slater Thursday, March 4, 2010 Whata'ya know? The East Coast has been flatter this winter than the standout performer of your local junior women's swim team. In the past three months I have spent more time playing Texas hold'em at the regional Elks Lodge than I have surfing. Every day it seems like the winds have been blowing offshore, sending beautiful surf down to the Caribbean. When are those winds going to switch around and send some love to the mid-atlantic you might ask? Ahh...probably not until hurricane season, which is a lingering four months away. Enough with me trying to describe to you the HORRIBLE waves. We have some pretty cool project going on down here in the bible belt that I thought was worth documenting. The Great Lakes Dredging company has advanced southward to Wrightsville Beach all the way from the Great Lakes in order to generously provide our beaches with deep channels and velvety sand (not quite, its actually an aggregate of aged shells and huge rocks that will put a stone bruise on even the toughest of feet). If you have ever seen dredging work being done, then you know that there is a massive convoy of tugs, bulldozers, and little construction men that make the whole process operate smoothly. Along with these power houses there are miles and miles and miles of pipe. These guys are going to be here for the next month according to one of the Army Corps of Engineers employees that is supervising the project. I tried to take a photo of him but he wasn't having it. I guess he doesn't like being in the spotlight. Any who, I got some photos for a more vivid take on what is happening. --BP http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39325 Evan Slater Thursday, March 4, 2010 At the Rusty Gromfest in Bali, Karamas Jeren has picked up a nice little result to finish in second spot. Jeren only 13 years old competed in the under 16 division and still surfed good enough to turn a whole lot of heads... In the end it was Nusa Lembongan's Ediana Putra who took the title. The Gromfest is a series of 3 events with the tour winner earning a free trip to Oz to compete in the Lennox Head Rusty Gromfest... Go Jeren!   MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39324 Mitch Ross Wednesday, March 3, 2010 The contest is down to the final 4 surfers and both of the Hurley boys have been knocked out. Brett went down to the 2 times world champ Mick Fanning to pick up a 17th in his first event on tour. Ace was unlucky not to have gotten past Adriana DeSousa in one of the closest heats of the day, it was down to the last exchange and the Brazillian go the nod by less than a point... Next up for the boys is Bells in a month's time... I'm thinking Dane might get his first win tomorrow..—MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39323 Mitch Ross Wednesday, March 3, 2010 In case you haven't heard, home school is totally out. Because home school means you wouldn't get to participate in projects like a current collaboration with Hurley, 225 Forest and Laguna Beach High School. Another variation of our T-shirt design contest, we partnered with LBHS teachers Scott Wittkup and Kerry Pellow to give art students the ultimate experience in design and screen-printing. A crew from Hurley (led by Wally Sato, Jon Crawford and Ryan Hurley) traveled to the school to go over the details: -Design and print four Hurley T-shirts -Make a live presentation back to the Hurley Team -Winners will be displayed and sold at the 225 Store in Laguna -Hurley to donate $1500 to the Art/Screenprint Class at Laguna High Needless to say, the students put everything into it and the results have been amazing. Winner will be announced this Friday. But in the meantime, check out a few of the designs they came up with. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39316 Evan Slater Wednesday, March 3, 2010 Did you ever have fun in school like this ? Well, I got the chance to come in and encourage the FCA class , and get lit up in dodge ball in one session. The kids were pumped to say the least -- they had so much energy it was crazy! I took a few moments with the kids to talk about life, faith ,and surfing! I gave them a little preview of some surf footage that was filmed with a GoPro camera. Needless to say they were glued to the screen , but as soon as the movie was over they had one thing on their minds . Hey,  Snyder can you dodge a wrench ???? Dodge ball was on , and yes i got lit up a few times. At the end of it all I rewarded the kids with the ultimate sticker toss . Check photos for all the action . — Noah Snyder    http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39307 Noah Snyder Monday, March 1, 2010 Florida artist Johannah O’Donnell creates explosive, vibrant paintings in acrylic on wood panel, using neon color schemes with rich multi-layered backgrounds. Though the paintings are primarily portraits that question our collective view of beauty, her panels are also rich with existential subthemes. Polaroid Baby BIG. Her paintings portray young women placed before elements of nature – trees, mossy green lawns, and starry backdrops. You will also find silhouettes of animals such as sparrows, elk and bats. Layered into the backgrounds are patterns like cheetah print, a tangled web of graffiti style arrows, dripping paint, or a repetition of stars and circles. Menacing images such as a skull or hands with a mouth in the palm bearing a devilish tongue may appear along the perimeter. Different For Girls.  To create this multi-layered effect she uses tools like Photoshop to mock up her painting before she commits paint to the panel. She says, “I come from a printmaking background, which is all about planning, so I plan my paintings before I start them.” Regarding her daring color scheme, she says, “I’ve just always loved color theory, the way certain colors bounce off each other. It makes an otherwise static composition come alive, and it creates dimension on a flat surface.” O’Donnell finds inspiration for her work from the local art movement, pop culture and music. She often envisions a painting after listening to a song. She says, “Fully formed pieces will pop into my head. Some call it the artistic muse. I call it awesome, because it reminds me that I’m merely an instrument of creative forces, not the force itself. This helps with reducing the artistic ego, which is not your friend.” Her latest creations portray hybrid human animal figures, such as a guy striking a relaxed pose in a v-neck sweater who happens to have a wolf head and a girl with a drink, a smile and whiskers. She says, “I have a soft spot for invented creatures, animals that don’t exist outside of the realm of human imagination. To me, they’re the mascots of the artistic mind.” As to why she paints fantasy, she says, “I think I’m drawn to it the same way I’m drawn towards heavy metal music. It’s nerdy and sincere. It’s art without irony - pure enthusiasm, imagination, and talent. I’m a big believer in sincerity in art. Sarcasm and irony are just self-defense mechanisms, a way to keep others at a distance. I have no interest in art that alienates the viewer.” –by Camille Lowry / Hurley Art Panda http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39274 Evan Slater Sunday, February 28, 2010 Brett Simpson dove head first into his rookie season on the ASP World Tour, surfing the first heat of the year and drawing Dane Reynolds. And if anyone questioned whether he was ready, they have their answer now. Simpson found the two best scores of a wave-starved heat, connecting the dots on one for a 6.67 and finding a quick barrel behind the rocks on another. "Hey, I'm first in the world for, like, 15 minutes," he joked to Chas Smith of Surfing Magazine. The heat was no fluke, though. With Ian "Kanga" Cairns in one ear and Pat O'Connell in the other, watch Brett raise a few more eyebrows as the event wears on. Of no surprise was Ace Buchan's performance, who also won his heat. Ace spends plenty of time in Gold Coast waters, and after a knee injury and up-and-down 2009, he's ready to break Top 10 territory once again. As of Monday, organizers are pushing deep into Round Two. Our boys get to skip that round and prep for the next battle in Round Three. We'll keep you posted. To see Brett's heat, click here. To see Ace's heat, click here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39273 Evan Slater Sunday, February 28, 2010 Cooper Chapman took out the Quiksilver King Of the Groms yesterday at Snapper Rocks, a lead-up to the main event kicking off today. In fun, 2- to 3-foot wally righthanders, Cooper proved to be too strong for the groms to book a spot in the international finals to be held in France later this year. The field was a very strong one -- guys like Creed MacTaggert, Jack Robinson and Mikey Wright were ripping but today was all about Cooper...<b>—MR</b> http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39267 Mitch Ross Friday, February 26, 2010 Last night was the night of the ASP Banquet, a night where all of the surfing world get together to say goodbye and congratulations to the winners of 09' and say hello to the new year of 10'. World Champs were crowned and plenty of awards went out on the special night... Bob Hurley was in town for the event as were Pat O, Simon Haskell, Jason Haynes, Barton Lynch, Brandon Guilmette and of course the athletes, Brett Simpson and Ace Buchan, who are getting ready for competition which kicks off tomorrow... Attached are a few photos and for more, check out lifewithoutandy.com—MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39266 Mitch Ross Friday, February 26, 2010 Myself and photographer Beau Roulette headed out for night of surreal fun at Cal State University Northridge last Saturday for the opening of Robert Williams art show, "Conceptual Realism in the Service of the Hypothetical." The gallery was packed with art stars and fans alike. Hurley is a contributing sponsor of the show and is featuring Robert Williams as the brand's featured artist for Spring 2010. The show runs through April 3, 2010. — Jason Maloney For more on the Robert Williams exhibit, go to www.juxtapoz.com. The author (and artist), Natalie Fabia and Bad Religion guitarist Jay Bentley (Miles' dad).  Gwynn Vitello and the enigmatic Craig Stecyk, author of Curse of the Chumash.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39251 Evan Slater Thursday, February 25, 2010 Kevin Earl Taylor was one of those skate-or-die kids in high school. Those were the days when he was sponsored by Thunder Trucks, skipped prom to skate, and listened to punk. Skateboarding was important for another reason, too. The San Francisco-based painter says it helped him to develop an artist’s mindset. “When you’re skateboarding, you’re kind of walking down the sidewalk, and everything you look at has the potential to be something else,” he said. “If you’re behind a shopping center, and there’s nothing to skateboard on, all the sudden you start looking at the trashcans, and the dumpsters, and this crappy piece of wood that’s lying on the ground. And you start to almost make this kind of recreational sculpture.” An Assembly Eternal.  Taylor still skates. But, today, his motto would more likely be paint or die. And he aims to maintain a sense of this scrappy playfulness in his artwork. Just take the pun-infected comics, or “punny fages,” he draws when he’s not painting—in one, a metal kid throws devil horns at his roof. Title: “Ceiling Fan.” The lighter side of Taylor’s work often gets overlooked. His paintings have a reputation for being ominous, thanks to the otherworldliness of moody scenes featuring animals and androgynous humans. Taylor prefers to think art can be serious and have a sense of humor, too. Again, he’s influenced by his skating days, when bands like The Circle Jerks sang about overdosing and junk mail. “They have a good balance of this is a really serious moment, but let’s not take ourselves too seriously because the world’s going to end one day.” Aqua Miami.  Taylor does take up meaningful themes in his paintings, often focusing on the animal world, as though he’s striving to remind humans that we’re animals, too, (if Taylor were an animal, he’d be a raccoon, which he likes to think of as bandits). Animals not only make great subjects for paintings; Taylor believes we could learn a thing or two from our furry, fanged friends. “If we could think a little bit more with that [animal] part of our brain that we’ve kind of lost touch with, I think that we would make some smarter decisions about our future, and the way we treat our habitat and other people on the planet,” he said. -- Sarah Tomlinson/Hurley Art For more on Kevin Earl Taylor, go to www.kevinearltaylor.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39215 Evan Slater Tuesday, February 23, 2010 The waves were pretty fun. Typically a Saturday makes the crowd that much shittier around here, but for whatever reason people were over it today. Maybe it's partially the fact that they are getting spoiled from non-stop perfect surf and today was a little less than perfect with a slight wind on it. Well, I missed lots of good swells last week so I was still pumped. Conner at "uncrowded" Rincon. Photo: Sean Lesh One of my buddies Sean Lesh recently got on the 7d program and bought a housing for it and he swam out today to try and get a few photos. The current made it difficult and I felt kind of bad when I would be on the other end of the point but he ended up getting a couple cool ones. Look for more to come from him! Trying to keep up with Conner. Photo: Lesh Ryan was down in Long Shlong Beach shooting a music video and driving around in sweet mercedes benz's they rented while Parker was in San Clemente for a WSA Prime, so i was solo. Here's the results from Sean's swim. -- Conner For more "tails" from Conner, go to youngwisetails.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39185 Evan Slater Sunday, February 21, 2010 Last week Bob Burnquist was out in Oz for Bowlarama at Bondi... The week was epic, in the end he got 3rd in the event with up and comer Pedro Barros taking the win. Amognst the event Bob did a few promo's for SDS and also got to hang with Hurley up-and-coming team rider Curren Caples... The pair had a skate and enjoyed the summer times of Sydney... Attached a few shots but for more go to lifewithoutandy.com.   Peace. --MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39184 Mitch Ross Sunday, February 21, 2010 Surf City’s highest-ranked professional surfer, Brett Simpson, received a proper send-off Friday evening as he embarked on his rookie year on the elite ASP World Tour. Just hours before he headed to the airport, Simpson attended the Go Brett Send-Off Party at Huntington Surf N’ Sport, where hundreds of friends, family and well-wishers showed their support. “This is a dream come true,” said Simpson, the 2009 US Open of Surfing Champion. “I’ll wear Huntington on my sleeve wherever I go on tour.” Simpson with Mayor Cathy Green and Council Member Joe Carchio. PHOTO: LALLANDE Simpson, who finished 10th on last year’s ASP World Qualifying Series, received an “Official Commendation” from Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green for his “competitive excellence” and his “dedication to the community and schools.” “It is athletes like Brett who help make this city’s next generation the best they can be,” said Green. In addition to the accolades from City Council, HB High School’s cheerleading squad came down to give him a proper send-off cheer. “I think this is the first time an ASP World Tour surfer had a cheer made up for him,” Brett joked. “I’m ready to do this city proud.” Checking the Go Brett movie by Aaron Lieber. PHOTO: LALLANDE Judging from the night’s premiere of “Go Brett: The Movie”, a short film documenting Simpson’s record-breaking year in 2009, he’s already done the city proud. Now, with a wave of support behind him, he’ll be heading to the Gold Coast of Australia with all the momentum in the world. Go, Brett.       http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39174 Evan Slater Sunday, February 21, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39149 Evan Slater Sunday, February 21, 2010 Illinois rockers Alkaline Trio will be in Canada this weekend, but not just for the Olympics. On Sunday, they'll be at retailer West 49 to kick off their Hurley collaborative collection and play a live set for the audience. Show up and get a free signed Alkaline Trio poster, and a free AT/Hurley pleather wristband comes with any collaborative piece purchase. Everyone is welcome. Come one come all. Come say hi to Alkaline Trio and see their only Vancouver performance live. Date: Sunday, February 21, 2010 Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Location: 2842-2929 Barnet Highway West 49 Port Coquitlam, Vancouver BC Get their record "This Addiction"out February 23rd. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39131 Evan Slater Saturday, February 20, 2010 My Father took me to Fiji when I was one and made that a part time home for all of my life. Every year we try to go down there and connect with our Fijian family. Mark Healey has fallen in love with the place as well and the village has adopted him as their albino son. This year we caught a ton of fish and some coconut crabs as well to sell so the village had some extra money. Coconut crabs taste like the best thing you ever tasted.... the best crab meat ever, with a hint of coconut. It is a true delicacy, and when you're on a deserted island they are like finding gold. The only thing about these crabs is they can cut your finger off if they get a chance to and in order to capture these bad boys you gotta wedge them out of thick roots or smoke them out of their holes. Because I've been doing it my whole life, it's no big thing.... but don't try this at home. Here's some shots from this last trip. Stay tuned for more pics from my Fiji home. -- Aamion Goodwin http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39112 Evan Slater Friday, February 19, 2010 The time has come. Brett's bags are packed, full of Phantoms, Sex Wax and fin keys. The mayor's fine-tuning her commendation speech and the cheerleaders are dusting off their pom-poms. Tonight is the official Go Brett Send-Off party at HSS. We'll be premiering Aaron Lieber's new short film, Go Brett, and will be handing out giveaways and a grand prize package including a Bob Hurley surfboard. In a few days, Simpson will begin his campaign as an ASP World Tour rookie. Until then, Hurley and the City of Huntington Beach will let him know how many people are backing him. Check the Go Brett trailer here, and be sure to swing by tonight, 5-7 p.m., at HSS on Main Street and PCH. See you there. Oh yeah. And check these photos from the past week in HB. As you can see, he's ready. PHOTO: MICHAEL LALLANDE http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39107 Evan Slater Thursday, February 18, 2010 His superheroes fight backaches and uncomfortable spandex. He’d like to draw a 200-page comic of someone watching TV from the perspective of the TV. He likes depressing music. Meet Levon Jihanian. Levon Jihanian lives in a world of islands, isolated people acting apart from each other—monsters, robots, outsiders—who all see themselves as outsiders even if they’re not. In this fantastical place, creatures worry about making it until payday. He says, “Humanity is a series of cyclops. I like the idea of giving these characters the problems we have, and real feelings: love, loneliness, desire, insecurity. I always try to figure out what that part is really, at the root of a person.” Set Jihanian up with a bag of cheap micron pens and he’ll draw a monster. He begins with a shape and tries to uncover who is behind it. “I start from the most random detail. I might start from the armpit, whereas other people might start with the head.” Post It.  Born in Allepo, Syria, 1978, most of Jihanian’s childhood was spent immersed in Dungeons & Dragons. He graduated with honors from Art Center College of Design seven years ago, and admits that D&D deeply informs his art. “It totally fits my mentality of world-building and inventing things, not just things but people. It’s funny because others think of D&D as you creating this idealized version of yourself as a dragon slayer, but usually you're some four foot tall dwarf.” Jihanian imbues his monster portraits with human challenges, like a cyclops surrounded by all different types of chairs, or a robot battling an alien water cooler. Fantasy faces its mundane details through his comic books, Ordinary Fieldbook, Enjoy The Hot Dog, and Fork Frenzy. His superhero in Bitter Disappointment fights backaches and uncomfortable spandex. If his characters came to life, what would they say to their creator? “They kind of talk to me already,” Jihanian claims. “They'd probably complain or maybe stay quiet. They're kind of all manifestations of myself. They'd probably make sure people liked them.” While we might giggle at his goofy, slightly pathetic monsters, Jihanian describes his work as quiet and sad, “not really zany.” He’d like to draw a 200-page comic of someone watching TV from the perspective of the TV. He likes depressing music and cries when the gypsy women go crazy to the sound of triangles in Bizet’s opera, Carmen. Grassman. Currently, Jihanian has rediscovered print-making, particularly enjoying the happy accidents that leads to finding new colors or palates. “It's part of the discovery that I like about art.” He also continues work on his opus, a graphic novel called Danger Country. “It’s an extension of this world I am talking about. ‘If the monsters came to light.’ It should be out sometime in 2045.” —Daiana Feuer For more on Levon, go to www.levonjihanian.com   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39082 Evan Slater Thursday, February 18, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39050 Evan Slater Saturday, February 13, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/39027 Evan Slater Thursday, February 11, 2010 There was a thread that bound kids like Mel Kadel, growing up in the suburbs outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. “Every kid I knew there had one thing in common, which was to get out of that town as soon as they graduated from high school.” The dull landscape of strip malls nudged her along, first for a short time in New York City, where nothing clicked. “I made a very blind move to LA,” she explains, “I got a job as a receptionist and made drawings at night. It was a shocking move. I didn't know the city, didn't have any friends, and swore I wouldn't stay more than a year. That was 11 years ago.” Today, she and fellow artist Travis Millard share a cabin high atop a hill in Echo Park, with drawing desks a few feet apart. With a little wood stove and a rustic feel, it’s the kind of urban retreat perfect for a self-barricading writing session with an acoustic guitar, or for this pair of artists to work. Spacing Awake. Mel’s artwork, done almost exclusively in micron pens and ink washes on coffee-stained paper, immediately seemed to tickle my amygdala, an uncanny blend of the special artwork stored in my back-brain childhood. “Shel Silverstein was my favorite,” she says, “I would read his books over and over. The drawings and stories were a perfect balance or weird, dark, and funny.” As in the line drawings of the great, weird poet and storyteller, there’s a tension in Mel’s work, too. Her characters – a company of actors in similar garb in tableaux of action – are pushing, pulling, riding, rising, often against great, ornate quilts on the verge of becoming their own animal and force. Falling in Line.  Along with her successful studio art practice, Mel’s managed to keep her hands in zine-making, a most labor-intensive and non-remunerative art form – especially when one prints them on paper lovingly coffee-stained by hand and distributing her small-run zines by hand or via Travis’ Fudge Factory Comics. Should you find yourself in Sydney in March, look for Mel and Travis at the Semi Permanent Conference in Sydney, Australia. While the thought of it, she says “makes me nervous, it'll be a great honor.” –by Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art For more, go to melkadel.com http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38273 Evan Slater Monday, February 8, 2010 Born out of a drawing in the sand during the summer of 2000, Leaf was initially a movement of ’05/’06 Laguna Beach High School art students with a love for the ocean. With inspiration and guidance from longtime LBHS art teacher Peter Tiner, that movement naturally expanded beyond Laguna’s shores. “Leaf took the local community of Laguna Beach by storm at the first annual Peace Pipe Pageant held at the Woman’s Club back in 2008,” says Leafer John-Paul Olson. “Since then, there has been a snowball effect, with more buzz and larger crowds at following productions.” Examples of this can be seen in their recent exhibits in San Francisco, where additional artists joined the cause. Leaf’s ultimate goal is to reach a pinnacle of design, art, music while keeping the family and community as a central theme. Essentially a collection of photography, films, prints, and paintings, the Time Tablets exhibit creates a strong feeling of one communal voice. Artists represented include Laguna Beach locals: Scott. Z Stinnett, Sam E. Ferguson, Edgar Nelson Obrand, Seth Barnard, Isaac Zoller, Dustin Pettit, and John-Paul Olson. Other Leafers, including Travis Parr, Robert Polizzatto, and Mathew Marsh Green, will also be represented. The Time Tablets are now on exhibit at 225 Forest in Laguna. The collection will be on display until Feb. 14. The images are from the exhibit’s opening night, where a good number of the local art community came out to recognize the project.   For more on Leaf, visit www.youarewithleaf.blogspot.com For more on 225 Forest, the Hurley/Nike/Converse retail experience that prides itself in customization and community ties, go to Go to www.225forest.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38242 Evan Slater Sunday, February 7, 2010 Self-taught Philadelphia painter Jim Houser combines words and storytelling with cartoony renditions of recurring motifs, everything from ten-gallon hats to snakes. An honorary member of the artists collective Space 1026 and a life-long skateboarder, Houser had a busy year in 2009. “I moved out of and back into my house, put in a new kitchen, got married, had hip surgery, got Jessica pregnant, and did three shows.” It’s a wonder that his paintings, sculptures, and installations don’t show the same frenetic pace – instead, they’re the near opposite: purposeful, considered, and peaceful. Incredibly peaceful. The Sound of a Drum. Jim has a vocabulary of images that he draws on continually, among them vines, cowboy hats, hands, scalloped patterns, octopuses, and wallabee-like shoes. Throughout his paintings, he combines his imagery with lines of text, rarely with a line longer than a few words. Such text is planned, but only to a point. “Whatever it is I write down usually changes or is changed by the time I paint it on a painting. I carry as much of the stuff around in my head as possible at one time, and whatever order it comes out in usually is about 35% governed by my conscious and the rest just is what it is.” Two Face. Among Jim’s friends, he has a reputation as a homebody, and he agrees. “I like being home more than anywhere,” he says, “I am half-heartedly looking for a studio right now, since once the baby comes, I need to get out of the house. My studio is the whole 3rd floor of the house, and I need to clear out room.” Does that mean he’ll be looking for a studio in its typical form? “Rather than a dirty warehouse-y place, I'll probably rent an apartment. I need a comfortable place with cable and a sofa, or I will never go there to work. I don't think i have the personality to share a space with another artist.” The Hit Taker. At the moment, Jim is putting finishing touches on a February solo show at Monster Children in Sydney, and on return, plans to paint a bedroom in his house for his and Jessica’s lil’ player to be named later. “A couple other shows after that, a lot of diaper changing and baby singing, in the near future, I think. Can't wait.” The Barrage. Like a lot of artists, I like to collect art, and like a lot of collectors, I find that each piece on my wall develops a bit of a role in my daily life. The small piece of Jim’s lives by my door, and when I see it, I’m reminded to take a long, slow breath and find my center. That baby room will be a wonderful place. –Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38224 Evan Slater Friday, February 5, 2010 Erin Ashley wishes she would have learned a different instrument. "Learning the saxophone pretty much limits me to jazz or ska. And I've done both," she says. But right now, she's the chief horn-blower for the up-and-coming band Go Go 13. "We're playing Warped Tour this year," says the 27-year-old from Long Beach. "Better late than never." Erin rides a 9'6" double-step deck single-fin shaped by Dano. She enjoys surfing Blackies in Newport because everyone keeps an open mind there. Erin -- also known as "Worm" -- also frequents spots like Malibu when she's in the mood. "I like to roam," she says. Erin recently spent the day with talented photographer Justin Jay. "Blackies was bad, so we went to Seal," says Erin. Justin -- who's photographed some of the best in the music biz in their most intimate moments -- captured a few gems both in and out of the water. Erin Ashley is the newest Hurley Slider. She's nice, drives an old car, thinks for herself and can hang on the nose way longer than you. She also plays saxophone, but wishes she would have learned a different instrument. --es http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38221 Evan Slater Thursday, February 4, 2010 November 2009 was a huge month for the Dubyouth boyz. For the first time in their DY musical careers, they were invited to play shows in Europe (Paris and Berlin). The Paris show was organized by Chinese Man crew, who got fully hooked in by Dubyouth after seeing them perform in Yogyakarta. The show in Paris took place in the legendary Elysee Montmarte building, while the Berlin show was organized by the House of World Cultures for the Worldtronic Festival 2009. This was BIG for the Dubyouth crew; something they never imagined would happen when the group were first starting up in their humble bedroom studio. What it has done is proven that Europe (or even the International community) is now welcoming their music. Europe has been funked by the grooved up sounds of Dubyouth! http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38202 Mitch Ross Thursday, February 4, 2010 Rockies has always been one of my favorite waves, for high performance surfing, on the North Shore. I was stoked to be able to meet and surf with fellow team riders, Brett Simpson and Micheal Dunphy. PHOTOS: Moses Slovatizki Colin http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38192 ColinHerlihy Thursday, February 4, 2010 Bob Does Bali!Last week we were really happy to see our founder and Chairman Mr. Robert (Bob) Hurley drop into Bali for a quick tour around our stores and some surfing with Riz and the boys.He kept it low-pro staying at Un’s Hotel in Kuta and just generally hanging out, meeting the locals and soaking up the sun and even managed to snag a few decent four foot lefts at Turtle island.For a lot of the local people working here it was a chance to meet the man behind the name and the brand & it had a deeply profound effect on some of them. Our product manager Marlon exclaimed that the experience “was like meeting God!”Bob was as cool and approachable as any one you have the had the pleasure of meeting and he was really stoked on what he saw in Bali and the development of the brand here; as only a little over a year ago there was no real sign of the brand anywhere… We hope to see his smiling face, surf stoke and words of wisdom back here soon…Hurry back to Bali, Bob! --Nicholas Farris http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38191 Mitch Ross Thursday, February 4, 2010 Illinois pop-punk band Alkaline Trio has a long-standing relationship with Hurley. This latest collection is another example of that. Be sure to get your limited edition tees, jeans and polos at West 49 right now or in the US on March 1, where the collection will be available at Active, 255 Forest, Hurley Irvine Spectrum and www.hurley.com. Alkaline Trio's new album, This Addiction, will also be out later this month. Check it out here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38164 Evan Slater Thursday, February 4, 2010 Born out of a drawing in the sand during the summer of 2000, Leaf was initially a movement of ’05/’06 Laguna Beach High School art students with a love for the ocean. With inspiration and guidance from longtime LBHS art teacher Peter Tiner, that movement naturally expanded beyond Laguna’s shores. “Leaf took the local community of Laguna Beach by storm at the first annual Peace Pipe Pageant held at the Woman’s Club back in 2008,” says Leafer John-Paul Olson. “Since then, there has been a snowball effect, with more buzz and larger crowds at following productions.” Examples of this can be seen in their recent exhibits in San Francisco, where additional artists joined the cause. Leaf’s ultimate goal is to reach a pinnacle of design, art, music while keeping the family and community as a central theme. Essentially a collection of photography, films, prints, and paintings, the Time Tablets exhibit creates a strong feeling of one communal voice. Artists represented include Laguna Beach locals: Scott. Z Stinnett, Sam E. Ferguson, Edgar Nelson Obrand, Seth Barnard, Isaac Zoller, Dustin Pettit, and John-Paul Olson. Other Leafers, including Travis Parr, Robert Polizzatto, and Mathew Marsh Green, will also be represented. The Time Tablets are currently being transported from San Francisco to Laguna Beach, where they will be installed for Thursday night’s exhibit at 225 Forest. The collection will be on display until Feb. 14. For more on Leaf, visit www.youarewithleaf.blogspot.com. For more on 225 Forest, the Hurley/Nike/Converse retail experience that prides itself in customization and community ties, go to www.225forest.com. Be sure to come to 225 Forest in Laguna Beach at 6:30 p.m. and watch the vision unfold.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38155 Evan Slater Tuesday, February 2, 2010 greetings from the land of aloha. it's been quite a winter.  for a while there it seemed like it was never gonna stop.  swell after swell... after swell... after swell.  i almost got the feeling  of being surfed out... almost. but when's there's no swell in the islands i like to partake in other ocean activities with my friends over here. everything from canoe paddling, hawaiian sailing canoes, open ocean stand-up paddling...  basically anything that keeps my mind occupied and my body in the ocean. so here is a few photos of some of my adventures over the past month. enjoy.—rob http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38141 Evan Slater Sunday, January 31, 2010 Jake Halstead, star of Sliders TV and other Hurley.com videos, had the event of his life at the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Games in New Zealand this past week. The 15-year-old powerhouse from La Jolla muscled his way to the Under 16 final after a long, grueling run in the repercharge rounds. In the round before the final, he narrowly beat out teammate Kolohe Andino for the last spot. He then put together an impressive display in the punchy sandbar peaks of Piha, but came up just short of Australian Matt Banting for the world title. The runner-up finish helped Team USA secure a Bronze medal at the games behind Hawaii and gold medalists for the fifth straight year, Australia. A huge congrats goes out to Jake and Team USA for their efforts. The party's on us when they get home. For more, go to www.isaworldjuniors.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38129 Evan Slater Wednesday, January 27, 2010 The cinematic phenomenon known as The Drifter reached its pinnacle Tuesday night as Rob Machado accepted his award for “Athlete of the Year” at the X-Dance Film Festival in Salt Lake City. The movie, which packed theaters worldwide for the past few months, also won “Best Director” (Taylor Steele) and “Best Soundtrack” (Chad Davis and Warner Brothers Records) at the event. Keep in mind that the X-Dance film festival isn’t some rigged insider bro-down like certain video awards events. It’s an unbiased showcase of all the best action sports films of the year. And naturally, The Drifter stood apart. A huge congratulations to the entire Drifter machine (especially Rob) for making Hurley history. For more, go to www.x-dance.com http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38128 Evan Slater Wednesday, January 27, 2010 Francesco LoCastro’s new paintings are a pulsating mix between abstract eruptions and pop-infused realism. They’re sleek, calculated, but, at the same time, completely guttural. “I make the best decisions when I don’t think about them too much,” LoCastro says. “It doesn’t come from logic. It comes from something more primal than that.” After years curating, organizing, and working to make South Florida’s art scene sizzle, LoCastro has taken some time out—“I’ve been trying to come back to silence and get rid of all the noise, clutter and outside pressures”—to pin down exactly what he wants to say in his own art. What he’s finding is that his connection to counter-culture irreverence and free-spirited imagery may all be part of a subconscious search that started years ago. LoCastro grew up in the middle of a culture clash. He spent his childhood in Germany and, at one point, lived near Stammheim Prison. Members of the Red Army Faction, the anti-imperialist group that, among other affronts, killed high ranking officials and hijacked an airliner, were held at Stammheim, and the prison acts as an unhappy symbol of what happens when youthful unrest veers out of control. “I saw all of that go down, and it’s taken me this long to digest it,” LoCastro says. When he left Germany for Ft. Lauderdale, LoCastro was 17. He caught wind of the iconoclastic underground festering in New York and California and when he saw an issue of Juxtapoz with Mark Ryden, king of lush phantasmagoria, on the cover, “it all just kind fell into place.” The “lowbrow” language of Ryden and other artists in that scene was one LoCastro could speak to. And though he’d grown up thinking of drawing as a hobby, not a career, he soon had his first show at San Francisco’s Shooting Gallery. Since then, LoCastro, who still works out of Ft. Lauderdale, has exhibited nationally, spearheaded exhibitions that included artists like Shepard Fairey and Dalek, and started the Vanguard Art Fair—he wanted “to show artists that they could be as free as they want.” And now, even though he suspects the underground scene he’s championed is about to break open, LoCastro is laying low, revisiting his youth, rediscovering himself, and making resin covered paintings that marry flare-ups of color with controlled rendering. “I have more fun doing these than I ever have,” he says, “because I feel like they’re more my voice than me trying to be part of anything that’s been done before.” –Catherine Wagley / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38122 Evan Slater Tuesday, January 26, 2010 Dean Bowen (Gerroa, NSW) today claimed the 2010’s Grade – 5 Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior claiming a professional junior surfing world-record USD$25,000 winner’s cheque. Bowen defeated Chris Friend (Alex Headland, Qld) in a seesawing final, which saw Bowen fall behind early, before retaliating with a blistering 9.17 (out of a possible 10) wave, registering a combined two-wave total of 16.17 (out of a possible 20) to Friend’s 14.63. “I’ll definitely be having a few drinks tonight with family and friends, and possibly take a quiet little trip to the Gold Coast casino,” an excited Bowen, 19, said. “The Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior is easily one of the best junior surfing events in the world and despite not being able to surf the famous waves of the point this year, its still been a great event and Hurley definitely know how to put on a show,” he said. Bowen's backhand did the trick.  Meanwhile for Friend, it was a bittersweet day with the likeable natural-footer not quite having enough gas to get him over the line in the final. “To come so close and not be able to walk away with the USD$25,000 is disappointing, but in saying that placing second is still a great result,” Friend said. “Dean (Bowen) is such a competitor in the water and he’s as Aussie as they come, so it’s great an Australian walked away with the cash in the end,” he said. With four Australian surfers competing on the final day, the end result was always going to spark patriotic celebrations, however, Bowen’s win did spoil the party for the local contingent, as three Queenslanders including Blake Ainsworth (Coolangatta, Qld), Mitch Crews (Currumbin, Qld) and Chris Friend were eliminated in the semi-finals and final respectively. A big turnout for the final.  All is not lost for 19-year-old Mitch Crews, with the Gold Coaster attaining the number-one position atop the ASP Australasia Junior Men’s ratings, holding a 770 point lead over his nearest rival Davey Cathels (Narrabeen, NSW). Visit www.hurleyprojnr.com for news, photos and updates relating to the 2010 Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior with plenty of action from the event’s Australia Day celebrations. 2010 ASP Australasia Junior Men’s Ratings 1. Mitch Crews (Currumbin, Qld) – 4770 points 2. Davey Cathels (Narrabeen, NSW) – 4200 points 2. Dean Bowen (Gerroa, NSW) – 4200 points 4. Chris Friend (Alex Headland, Qld) 3930 points 5. Blake Ainsworth (Coolangatta, Qld) 3390 points Results – Day Five Semi-Final One: Dean Bowen (Gerroa, NSW) 15.67 def Blake Ainsworth (Coolangatta, QLD) 13.66 Semi-Final Two: Chris Friend (Alex Headland, QLD) 13.03 def Mitch Crews (Currumbin, QLD) 12.23 Final Dean Bowen (Gerroa, NSW) 16.17 def Chris Friend (Alex Headland, QLD) 14.63 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38110 Evan Slater Monday, January 25, 2010 Over the past few days, surfer Jon Rose's organization Waves for Water has been deep in the trenches in Haiti, helping distribute water filtration systems to the hundreds of thousands in need. He also had friend Sean Penn helping him out (who happened to be wearing a Hurley/Surf n' Sea tee during the mission) and they're well on their way to getting more than 3000 filters to earthquake victims. Check out the video of Sean Penn in Haiti here. To learn more about Waves for Water or to donate, go here. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38109 Evan Slater Monday, January 25, 2010 Waves were even a little smaller today than the last few, but luckily the beachbreak still had some shape and competitors made the most of it. There were only 8 heats run today and they were 8 good ones.... The highlight by far was in Quarterfinal 3, Mitch Crews vs Peterson Cresanto. Mitch, who earlier in the day locked in one of the best performances of the day, was on the ropes against the Brazilian. Peterson had a 7 and 6 and Mitch was stuck with a mid range 4 point ride... 30 seconds to go Mitch gets a chance... In search of an 8.50 Mitch goes crazy and does some of the best surfing of the event to lock in a 9.17 and book a spot in the semis... A crazy performance! Mitch Crews with a buzzer-beater.  Today's matchups: Dean Bowen vs Blake Ainsworth Mitch Crews vs Chris Freind Click here for the live webcast. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38108 Evan Slater Monday, January 25, 2010 With the swell down once again it was time to go mobile... Rather than going south to D'Bah we headed north to Surfers Paradise and ended up at "Southport Spit." We were super lucky. The waves were basically non existent at Burleigh but at the Spit it was a fun 2 foot with the occasional  3 footer. The bank was a real tidy A frame with plenty of opportunities for big scores. Nike 6.0 rider Nat Young powers through at The Spit.  The level of surfing has been solid and we're now down to the Round of 16. Watch for Hurley's Mitch Crews and Chris Salisbury to continue to do damage. Stay tuned as the world's richest pro junior gets down to business or click here for the live webcast. — Mitch Chris Salisbury on his way up.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38100 Evan Slater Sunday, January 24, 2010 International competitors have dominated day one the 2010 Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior presented by Nike 6.0, with overseas imports going toe-to-toe with domestic stars in round one of competition. However, there was as much action out of the water, with Hurley officially opening the event with a media conference that had everyone talking. Special guests included 1978 World Champion Wayne Bartholomew who received a gift from founder of Hurley International - Bob Hurley. Bob Hurley traveled to the first day of the event all the way from his Californian home and presented Bartholomew with a replica of a surfboard Hurley shaped for Bartholomew in the 1980s. Bob and Rab talk shop.  Before that, 1988 World Champion Barton Lynch and former top world tour competitor Pat O’Connell as well as a host of top junior surfers including Mitch Crews (Currumbin, Qld), Chris Friend (Alex Headland, Qld), Chris Salisbury (Newport, NSW), Davey Cathels (Narrabeen, NSW) and Nat Young (Santa Cruz, USA) entertained an eager media gallery who were clearly excited to be in the same room with so many surfing legends. The main theme of the launch touched on Hurley’s initiatives in regards to prize money after it was announced late last year that the winner of this year’s event would receive a professional junior world record USD$25,000. Kicking off another historic event for Hurley. Meanwhile, in the water - Coming from the same Hawaiian Island as three-time World Champion Andy Irons, 18-year-old Dylan Goodale sent a warning shot to his rivals registering a day high combined two wave total of 15.08 (out of possible 20). Goodale said he was enjoying the small, tricky conditions treating the beach-break of Burleigh Heads like a skate park. “It wasn’t quite the Burleigh Heads that I’ve heard so much about, but it was still fun on the beach break despite not being able to surf the point,” he said. The January 22-26 competition window of the 2010 Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior presented by Nike 6.0 will also see the event’s finals conclude amidst the celebrations of Australia’s national day, bolstering the already festival style atmosphere associated with Hurley surfing events. The Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior presented by Nike 6.0 is proudly supported by Hurley, ASP Australasia, Surfing Queensland, Electric, Redbull, Coastalwatch, Australia’s Surfing Life Magazine and Aerial 7. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38099 Evan Slater Friday, January 22, 2010 A few months ago, we told you about former Hurley employee, Jamie Tworkowski and his organization. Well, now is your last chance to vote for him to receive this year's MTV Woodie award. So, go here now and voice your approval of all his amazing work. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38097 Evan Slater Friday, January 22, 2010 If you read my last blog, you know I missed the Eddie, and hurt my rib. If you didn't read it, please do. I put time and effort into my bullshit. Anyway, here we are six weeks after hurting my rib and I'm ready to go. I've surfed 3 or 4 times, swam a little in big surf, and feel pretty confident. By the way, surfing with a hurt rib sucks...lying on your rib trying to paddle is not pleasant. The point of these excuses is, I haven't surfed much. So here I am, home, ready to start surfing more, feeling good, and about to go to bed. I decide to take a quick look at the buoy before I go to sleep; it's 25ft., 17 seconds. For people who don't speak buoy language, that's GIANT. Its as big as Waimea can handle, or possibly even too big for the bay. I have no reason to be nervous, the Eddie is over, and I've proved myself enough times. F*&%, I still can't sleep. Brock didn't have any photos from this year, so we wanted to remind him what he's ridden before. When I wake up in the morning and drive down the hill, I see its really big. I have a doctors appointment I shouldn't blow off, so I go. Driving around the bay I'm seriously hoping it will drop by the time I get back. When Waimea is this big, its not fun; it will kill you, or me. When I get back from town, around 11, its as big as it gets. I'm not sure why, but I have to go out. Waimea has nearly killed me twice at this size. I'm afraid. One of my things at Waimea is I don't like to watch it before I go out. I get down to the beach and paddle out. People usually follow me because I've been around a while, but jumping in when I do is a bad idea. This time my friend Arnold Dowling followed me out. He paddled towards the channel, I stuck next to the rocks. He got his ass kicked in the middle of the bay, I got tossed around by about 20 waves, 5ft. whitewaters next to rocks. When the waves finally let up, I paddled my ass out to the line-up. All the way out I was worried about a close out set. When I made it out, I was winded. I knew I shouldn't be out there. I was not in shape, mentally, or pysically for maxed out Waimea. Usually, when I'm on the beach, I'm scared, I feel sick in my gut. On my way out though, those feelings start to change,and by the time I reach the line up, I'm fearless. This day was different. When I got out I could only think, shit, its going to be hard to catch a wave in. Not the right mindset. We know we've run this sequence before, but we don't care. It's still king in our book.  All my life I've seen when people surf closeout Waimea, most of them don't want a real wave. They paddle out thinking they want one, but when they get out there, they figure out its a bad idea. On days like this one there were 20 guys out, but only 3 or 4 who wanted a 20+ wave. I was suprised by Kahea Hart, he charged. Arnold, and this nice South African also wanted one. Pretty much everyone else looked like they'd seen a ghost. I was on the so called fence, not sure which way I was going. I told myself many times if I was one of the guys not wanting one, I'd quit. All of a sudden I realized, I might be one of those guys....I'm 42, got a great wife, I can't achieve much more wave-wise than what I've already done in the past. Why am I out here when I know it can kill me? I also know that when I'm out in the thick of things , I make bad choices in regard to my well being. So all this crap is going though my head, but I'm starting to get my wind back. I've been out about 10 minutes, and a set starts to form way out in the ocean. Horns are honking, everyone is paddling for the horizon. I don't paddle out because I know if you want to catch one, you have to stay close to the reef. For some idiotic reason, all of a sudden my mindset has changed, and I'm going to get one. When the set came, I was too far in for the first one, out of position for the second one, and the third (and biggest) was aimed right at me. I turned around and took off, knowing I'd make the wave. It was outside the main reef, so getting in wasn't very hard. A wind chop pushed me in, and before I knew it I was half way down the face. Then the wave hit the regular Waimea reef, and created a little bump. I went over that, and knew I had the wave made. After a sigh of relief, my board slowed down but my body didn't. I'm not sure what happened, but I went shoulder first into the bottom of the wave face. It wasn't a big deal, I knew I'd be under awhile, I've done it before. I got worked, and when I made it up, I felt fine. We'll still stack this one up against anything ridden this year.  Then I noticed that although I was swimming with 2 arms, one was just floating. I freaked out, screamed like a little girl. I had dislocated my left shoulder. It was so heavy to be thinking I'm moving my arm, and then look at it just dangle. There was a 20ft. wave coming so I had to start thinking about functioning with 3 limbs instead of 4. I took off my leash, because I didn't think it would be a good idea to drag my arm though the water, with the leash pulling me. The wave thrashed me around pretty good, but not too bad. While I was underwater I swam like I had two good arms, it didn't feel any different than normal. When I popped up, both arms were working. I was actually swimming. Did that just happen? Somebody who was on the shoulder came in and let me jump on the back of his board. I'm sure he heard me screaming, because before that wave I truly yelled like a big fffnnn pussy. Clyde Aikau came over to help push me into the channel. Everybody was waving for the jet ski. The weird truth was, I felt fine. I was paddling on the back of some guy's board and my arm didn't even hurt. The lifeguard (Abe Lerner) came over on the ski and had me climb onto the sled. He took me in, and dropped me perfectly right on the sand. End of story... How many of these can you take in a lifetime? But I don't know. I've come a lot closer to drowning, broke my kneecap blah, blah, blah...I think what I'm asking myself is should I keep surfing giant Waimea? I know this is cocky, but usually I'm the best guy out,even now (Shane and a few others are definitely better than me). I can't pass up a close out, if I'm in the spot, and in the mood. I'm 42 with nothing to prove. No decision, but leaning towards walking away...we'll see.   Just saw the photo, kind of a nothing wave, nothing fall. Not very good for my ego. If my shoulder pops out on a medium wave at the bay, what happens on a real wave? Makes me think about Mark Foo's medium wave at Mavericks. I think I think too much.-- Brock http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38041 Evan Slater Thursday, January 14, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38038 Evan Slater Thursday, January 14, 2010 Legendary L.A. graffiti pioneer RISK has been responsible for his fair share of graffiti firsts. He helped introduce New York style graffiti writing to the streets of L.A. in the 1980s. He was one of the first L.A. writers to paint freight trains, one of the first freeway bombers in the city, and one of the first writers to put his graffiti to canvas. A true trailblazer, known for his fearlessness on the face of grievous bodily danger, law enforcement and extreme heights, RISK is one guy who truly fits his name. Says RISK, “A lot of these things, being the first to do something, came out of wanting to push the limits and gain more notoriety. It’s hard to say if I ever did things specifically to be the first or if they just happened. I always liked it after it happened, but it’s hard to say if I ever thought about it beforehand. It comes from just taking things one step further.”   RISK ventured into the world of graffiti aged 16, in 1983, while a student at University High School on the Westside of LA. He decided to make the high school his personal canvas, tagging SURF (his first writing name—he was an avid surfer) everywhere during the day and returning at night to do pieces. He found that his efforts often disappeared by the next morning, and realized that he had to get creative if he wanted his graffiti to stay up. One night while RISK and another writer, JIMBO, were driving through the San Fernando Valley looking for a place to paint, they stumbled across a freight train yard behind the Budweiser plant. The two were most likely the first writers in L.A. ever to paint freight trains, and the artist formerly known as SURF would later go back and paint his first piece as RISK on a freight train. In L.A., as in just about everywhere outside of New York, graffiti was still almost entirely foreign, aside from gang markings and wall scrawl. RISK credits gang writing as an influence on his style, but he also wanted to find something more like his other primary influence—New York-style graffiti.   Everyone wanted to push graffiti further—hitting more spots, more visible spots and more unusual spots, with bigger pieces and crazier styles. Writers often talked about how cool it would be to do a piece along the freeway, but it seemed like a pipe dream to most of them. Says RISK: “One night I was sleeping, and I woke up and was like, ‘What am I doing?’ So I went to the freeway. It was an obscure spot, the Mulholland overpass on [Interstate] 405. I did a piece, drove by the next day, and looked up at it like, ‘Wow.’ Another first for RISK—and for L.A. graffiti—came soon after the freeway incident. RISK, WISK, MEC and SER were all drinking together while sitting on an overpass above the Pasadena Freeway just north of downtown L.A. when RISK, in his drunken state, decided to hit one of the signs hanging over the freeway, known as a “heaven.” To get to the sign, he had to shimmy across a piece of wood supported by two cables. His friends, scared for his life, begged him to come back to the overpass. That night spent hanging over the Pasadena Freeway was hardly the first or last time RISK encountered danger while writing graffiti (and it certainly wasn’t the last time he’d find himself hanging over a freeway). Contemplating the arc of his career, RISK attributes his success to something deep inside him. “I think I was the first to do a lot of stuff because I was competitive. I always wanted to take things one step further. If everyone was painting blocks, I’d put up a background. If everyone was painting blocks with backgrounds, I’d put up a border. If everyone went as high as they could reach, I’d paint the whole wall. “The reality is, you can’t be the best at anything. You always want to be the best, but there’s always gonna be someone better than you—and that’s what’s great about it. Because if there wasn’t someone better, why would you do it? You’d have nothing to strive for.” –Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/38005 Evan Slater Tuesday, January 12, 2010 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37994 Evan Slater Sunday, January 10, 2010 “I’m a perfectionist,” sayd Miso of her meticulously-crafted, otherworldly sculptures and paintings, “and it drives me crazy to the point where I don’t get any sleep. I’m pretty much an insomniac. I have weird ideas always going on in my head and I have to work.” She creates small figures and fantastic characters so believable that they begin to take on a life of their own. Miso is the nom de plume of Los Angeles photographer Karen Hsiao. Karen makes dark, haunting photographs; Miso carves, casts, and paints warmer, though still mysterious, figures and images. Miso adopted her second identity a few years ago to avoid confusion—those interested in her photographs tend to be attracted to fetish—but the duality resonates with her project. “I like the idea that what goes on in my head, people can also see and experience,” she says, and her invented name immediately blurs the line between imagination and actuality. A Los Angeles native and a graduate of Art Center, Miso initially thought she would pursue entertainment. But her time in art school convinced her that the studio and gallery life suited her better. She became enamored by the craft involved in sculpting and rendering and she realized she was the type who could spend days obsessing over every detail. She began exhibiting work in 2007. Miso recently finished the work for her upcoming show at Corey Helford Gallery, A Cold Return. “I’m loosely basing things on global warming but I’m not trying to be political about it,” she says of the exhibition. “I’m fascinated by the ice age and the extinction of animals during that time and also the talk of the polar bears being extinct in thirty years.” Her figures, often vulnerable and dependent on their environments, sometimes resemble strange sheep-like specimens. Then there are what Miso calls “white marshmallow creatures with horns,” and a recurring character, a rabbit girl who has long hair that covers her eyes and a posse of bats that take care of her. “She needs her little friends to pull her hair up. They’re like her sight.” A Cold Return opens in January, and then Miso will decide what to next. Eventually, she wants to bring all of her characters into three-dimensions, and she'll continue to take a meticulous, methodical approach to her work. "It almost makes it seem that my characters do exist," she says. —Catherine Wagley / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37960 Evan Slater Sunday, January 10, 2010 The Australian Junior Series is up and running once again for 2010 with the first event down at Bells Beach. It was a great event for the Hurley Team. Gold Coast surfer, Mitch Crews who has just recovered from injury, did extremely well in the event to finish runner-up. According to contest director and General Pants Group employee Matt Owens, Mitch was the surfer of the event and was unlucky not to have won. All in all a fantastic result for Mitch which now puts him in second position on the Junior Series. New Hurley recruit, Chris Salisbury also did well to finish equal 5th in the event, a solid start to the year.Next up for the Juniors is the World Juniors at Narrabeen and then the Hurley Burleigh Pro Junior up on the Gold Coast which boosts a 25k first prize cheque. Break's over. Time to boogie again. —MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37953 Mitch Ross Thursday, January 7, 2010 When most people think of Israel, they don't think of surfing. But this New Jersey-size country in the Eastern Mediterranean actually gets its fair share of waves in the winter months. The legendary Dorian Paskowitz brought surfing to its shores in the '60s and there was even a major pro event -- The Tel Aviv Pro -- held here in the early '80s. Fast forward to this past weekend, where Israel's thriving surf community held its national championships. Our man on the ground, Shai Swissa, informed us that two Hurley riders brought home the gold in their respective divisions. Local legend Aviv Vaknin won his fifth men's championship in a hotly contested final, while 19-year-old Tal Saporta won her first women's crown. Here are a few photos from Aviv and Tal's big day. We'll also be calling them during this week's Sliders TV web show this Wednesday at 4 p.m. It'll be 2 a.m. their time, but they promise us they'll still be up celebrating. Congratulations to two very worthy champions. Aviv gets soaked.    Tal (left). You know, the one with the Hurley hat.  Aviv racks one up in the final.  Tal: carving her way to her first Israeli championship.  Tal: thrill of victory.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37947 Evan Slater Tuesday, January 5, 2010 Another year, another ISA World Junior Games title on the line. Fortunately, the USA is in good hands in 2010 with three Hurley family members on the squad. Evan Geiselman, Conner  Coffin and Jake Halstead are less than two weeks away from packing their bags, zipping up their team sweats and heading to the land of sheep and kiwis. After a grueling year and a selection process that rivals American Idol, these three Hurley riders got the final nod from head coach Ian Cairns.   Evan Geiselman, showing team spirit in HB. PHOTO: MICHAEL LALLANDE   Which is no easy task. Cairns isn't afraid to call it like he sees it, and is the only coach this century to guide the Americans to gold. (He did it last year with the pros at the ISA World Games.) And now insiders are saying he can very well do it with the Juniors. "No promises," says Cairns, "but I think we've got a very strong team in every division."   Conner Coffin isn't making any promises either. He's been on two previous world teams (the ones in France and Ecuador under coach Joey Buran), and knows how unpredictable it can all be. "We thought we had the best team ever in France but we didn't even do that well," he said. "There are so many variables that a lot of things have to go your way. I'm so stoked on our team, but we just have to put our heads down and get it done."   Conner Coffin, getting it done. PHOTO: LALLANDE   Coffin also thinks Cairns is the right man to get them to gold. "He doesn't hold back to make you feel good," said Coffin. "And I respect that. Plus, he's made us all such better competitors."   For young Jake Halstead, this will be his first ISA World Junior Games. But he already has the right mindset. "Everything changes in these team events," he says. "You might have friends from Hawaii or other countries or whatever. But once that contest starts, you're all about the USA."   Jake Halstead, good thoughts and good deeds going into NZ. PHOTO: DHUMP   The 2010 ISA Juniors event will take place January 20-28 in Piha, New Zealand. Click here for more info.   Here are this year's team members: Boys Under 18 Conner Coffin Evan Thompson Evan Geiselman Andrew Doheny Boys Under 16 Kolohe Andino Jake Halstead Trevor Thornton Parker Coffin Girls Under 18 Courtney Conlogue Lakey Peterson Kaleigh Gilchrist Taylor Pitz http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37944 Evan Slater Monday, January 4, 2010 With only a few weeks off, the Junior Series in Oz is up and running once again and the first event down at Bells Beach is The Jetty Surf Pro.   New Hurley Team Rider, Chris Salisbury started this thing with a bang, knocking down the highest combined heat score of the day, first wave was a high 8 and then got a few 6's for good measure... Chris was riddled with injuries in 2009 but this year he has his sights set on glory and really wants to win the Junior Series and then a Junior World Title... Stay tuned. —Mitch Ross http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37940 Mitch Ross Sunday, January 3, 2010 Craig “Skibs” Barker loves women —the shoe-wearing, skirt-draping parts of them anyway. Yes, this Huntington Beach surfer is a leg man and, like most artists, he paints what he likes, as evidenced in his new show, “Stay Right Here” at Thinkspace in L.A.   “I am definitely a ‘leg man’,” he says “but it started as a series of suggestive paintings of women, and my wife/model was a little shy about having her face in them. It gives the work that kind of voyeuristic, anonymous feel. I do paint the entire figure a little more often now, but I still enjoy the legs.” Southern California culture also plays a huge role in Skib’s compositions, even though it may be an entirely subconscious effort on his part. The “old Polaroid” influenced color palette, the skirt lengths, and the pair of pointy kitten heels in every frame lend themselves to a time warp of his own making, modernized by depictions of his wife’s tattoos. “I don’t consciously say ‘I’m going to use distinctly Southern California colors’ it just kind of ends up that way…I just mix colors that I like,” says Barker. “When I take pictures for my paintings I let my wife and her friends (my models) pick whatever they think is cute. Which I suppose is somewhat regional since we live here. If I lived in New York my work would probably be different. I think climate, fashion, and culture are very influential in art, but it’s hard to say how different it would be.” The type Barker uses in his images pays tribute to the stenciled slogans associated with punk. However, he conceptually softens the original harshness of the font edges with more heartfelt messages, like “still here”, “carefree”, and “true”. Whereas Barker was in high school during the punk rock 80s, it proved to be a definitive time in his life—it was then that he got his nickname (Skibs), made his career choice (art), and discovered his favorite music (the Clash). “I got the nickname “Skibs” when I was about 14 or 15. I used to hang around with one of the older H.B. punkers nicknamed “Scab”. Everyone said I wasn’t big enough to be a full “Scab” I was just a little “Skib”…from there it has been every variation you can think of…Skibbles, Skiblets, Skibbies, Skibaroo…etc. But, “Skibs” is the one that has stuck the longest. I’ve had friends for years that never knew my name is Craig, “ explains Barker. “It was around then that I realized that you could make a living as an artist. The majority of my working life has always been in a creative field of some kind…I work as an Art Director now. So, after a few life detours I’m giving the fine art/gallery angle a solid try. My “Sight For Sore Eyes” show at Thinkspace gallery has been big boost for me. I think the day that I can have painting and gallery shows as my full time job, that‘ll be pretty big.” —Shelley Leopold / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37932 Evan Slater Sunday, January 3, 2010 Heavenly creatures abound in the whimsical wonderlands brought to us by artist Amy Sol. Long-limbed, waiflike, doe-eyed girls are portrayed in nature, with sweet looking foxes, sea ponies, and air balloon-bearing pandas. Their graceful locks move in concert with the dancing vines that surround them. A quality of movement so lovely and graceful, it’s as if these figures were under water. At the same time, these ladies might be illuminated by sunlight or cradled in clouds.   Sol, a Korean-born, Las Vegas-based painter, creates alluring surrealist fantasy, inspired by Manga, folk art and children’s illustration. She started pursuing a career in art around age 22, though her creative leanings began as a child. Sol recalls, “I remember it was my place of retreat, where I could explore a world apart from daily life. I did not play with toys or role-play as much as other kids but I got a similar enjoyment out of drawing.” Her work conveys a state of quiet contemplation. Her subjects, both the maidens and animals, are often portrayed with their eyes closed, their emotions contained, their state almost meditative. Sol says, “I like to imagine the girls, animals, and plants are sharing one dreamscape and each living thing is equally present in thought.” She emphasizes this tranquil mood by employing a muted palate of pastel grays, pinks, greens, and soft browns. Sol says, “Semi-muted frequencies have always captured my eye as well as misfit color combinations. I can fall in love with colors and would enjoy just mixing pigments and pairing tones for hours and hours.” She often paints in acrylic on wooden panels, with the grain serving as a guide for her creativity. Sol says, “I started using the wood grain as a base to structure my palette off of and it provided subtle direction of motion for some of the compositions. The panel has become an important part of my technique, but I am beginning to practice on other materials, such as canvas, cotton, and bamboo panels.” There exists an intimacy between the gals and the animals. Each of their interactions is a vignette of companionship. Sol says, “I suppose the female character is an embodiment of a mother nature-like figure, I don't ever think of her as a human. I put the character there to translate for a viewer how I want you to feel if you are in the picture.” It makes sense that Sol’s paintings are imbued with dreamlike quality, given that she creates at night while the rest of us are sleeping. Sol explains, “For some reason my imagination seems exceedingly stimulated at night and there are far less distractions.” --by Camille Lowry / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37914 Evan Slater Wednesday, December 30, 2009 “I sometimes speak English in a very French way,” warns artist Turf One with a good-natured laugh before discussing the work that makes up his latest show, “Shining Darkness,” which is on exhibit at the Thinkspace gallery in Los Angeles through the end of November. But much like his bold, uncompromising paintings, the former graffiti artist’s thoughts are direct and right to the point. Utilizing a wide range of found objects to serve as his canvas, Turf One’s latest works reflect his process of letting the subconscious mind guide his art. “The title ‘Shining Darkness’ actually came in the middle of working on it,” he explains from his current home base of Montreal, Canada. “I already had a few pieces done for the show which were very much playing on the notion of the juxtaposition and correlation of darkness and light. This is an underlying theme in my work in general, but I explored a more serious aspect of it for this show with pieces like “MEAT” or “FORTUNE TELLING MONKEY AUTOMATON.” Animals play a large part in the exhibit, with monkeys, pigeons and a disembodied pig’s head just a few of the creatures represented in the paintings. “I don’t really know where they come from. They each symbolize different things,” the artist muses. “I think the monkey, for example, is probably a symbol of the unconscious. The pigeons and sparrows are the messengers between different levels of reality. Most of the animals I paint are often vermin placed in a sacred context. Holy pigeons, rats and mice, cockroaches are amongst my favorite subjects. Living in a big city, they are also the species that share my environment.” “Montreal is definitely a great city,” he continues in regards to his present big city of choice. He relocated after vacationing there in 2000 and falling in love with the Quebec province. “The combination of cultures is very rich and inspiring and makes it unique. It’s not too big, so Montreal is still a very human city. People in general tend to be very chill and open.” Music fuels Turf One’s painting sessions, citing a panoramic soundtrack that includes everything from legendary hip-hop producer Jay Dilla to revered jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. “I just like good music,” the artist shrugs. “I never paint without music. It fuels me. It’s all about good music and coffee.” While Turf One has nothing specific planned for the time being, he’s been dabbling in taking his vision to the screen, co-directed the feature documentary “Dead Space” with his partner Lela Quesney a couple years ago. The pair has also been working on a TV show pilot based on his work. “I basically see myself as someone who has a vision and a need to create,” Turf One says finally. “I don’t necessarily define myself solely by the mediums that I use to give life to my creations. Painting is just one of these means I found to give shape to my vision. Filmmaking could be another one.” –by Scott Sterling / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37897 Evan Slater Monday, December 28, 2009 The surf has been pretty non-stop since I've been home from Hawaii. For this last one, I got the car ready the night before because I knew in the morning I would be half awake. We woke up at 4am and were on the road by 5. The tide was really high in the morning but there was still a few good waves. Once the tide started dropping out around 11 it really started to turn on. We had about an hour of good waves before the northwest wind started howling. Definitely worth the mission.--Brad Ettinger http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37868 CMH Tuesday, December 22, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37862 Evan Slater Monday, December 21, 2009 Just after returning from a teaching project in Norway, Baltimore stencil artist Chris Stain left a message on his web site, Woody Guthrie's 'So long, it's been good to know you.' We’re not sure what that means, except that we’re glad to have him home. What were you up to in Norway? I was in Norway working with Josh McPhee founder of JustSeeds.org. We had a creative workshop incorporating stenciling, music, dance, performance, installation, and painting, consisting of 80 students. The school's art director had asked us to come and work with the students on the theme of consumerism. How have you liked it? Has it been a good place to paint streets? We were on an island three hours south of Bergen. It was very rural so there weren't any "streets". Our main concentration was to work with the students. I think we both learned from each other more than just us talking at them. Can you tell us something about growing up in Baltimore that influenced you a lot, but that we'd never know unless we had spent a lot of time there? My neighborhood was very working class and my family as well. I grew up in the 70s and 80s. Rap, graffiti, and breakdancing were starting to filter in slowly and then more heavily once "Beat Street" dropped. So I have this blue collar steel worker mentality mixed with Run-DMC, Grandmaster Flash, Revolt, and Phase 2. How do you go about composing your images - do you work from source photos? Is art a full time gig for you, or do you do other work as well? I do source images from old photobooks, stuff I find online, and photos I take myself. For the past three years I have stayed home with my kids while my wife worked. At that point art was full time but also the times were better economically. I have now applied to several general labor jobs to help pay the bills. You had a big show this past summer in Brooklyn - can you tell us about that experience? I was working with Armsrock on that show. The show was titled I KNOW THERE IS LOVE and was taken from the CRASS song of the same name. It was a nod to the band as well as our own wanting to find light in the darkness of these times. I think artistically the styles worked well together. What do you have coming up that you are excited about? I have been turning a lot of things down. I'll be excited when I can get some steady money coming in. --By Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37839 Evan Slater Sunday, December 20, 2009 When Roland Tamayo was growing up in Glendale, outside of Los Angeles, his parents took him fishing – “on boats, piers, barges, in lakes and streams, you name it,” he remembers. As immigrants from the Philippines, it was “a cultural thing, the eating and catching of fish,” but Tamayo came away inspired by the detail and beauty of sea creatures. He paints them to this day, but seems more drawn to those he’ll never catch: creatures like narwhals and whales. Like many Los Angeles area artists, Tamayo honed his skills working in industry, in his case, as a concept artist, helping create the look and feel of games series like the Ratchet and Clank, and Resistance: Fall Of Man. “Before a level can get started, or even a whole game for that matter, there needs to be a clear vision on how it looks. Paintings need to show mood, atmosphere, what kind of civilization was here, etc. Was it an ice or lava planet, lush or desert? These paintings need to inspire the team toward a common goal. You also work with designers and programmers, making sure that ideas they have for gameplay reasons can look cool and make sense visually. Plus there are gameplay maps for each level, and at times, most buildings or objects need to be drawn in detail. From doors and how they work, to crates, light posts, energy generators, anything you can think of.” While he loved the teamwork aspect of the gaming work, when he came home and created his personal pieces, they tended to be simpler. “Concept paintings can be composed pretty complex and dramatic, with mood lighting, color, perspective angles, props, and characters, all mixed into one image. It was a relief coming home and painting a simple scene and image that mean something more personal to me. Something much more quiet I guess you could say. I'm not opposed to getting more complex in my compositions for my personal work, but I'm thinking I'll just slowly build up to stuff like that.” Just over a year ago, Tamayo and his wife welcomed twin boys Bradley and Tyler into their lives. Tamayo stepped away from the gaming work to raise the boys, and has concentrated on his personal artwork. “As far as my art, it's changed the themes a little bit,” he says of the change. “My themes are never overly deep - just simple thoughts that run into my head. A piece I've done recently that has included my family unit is "Bound." It shows two trees whose limbs are bound by rope, and holding up a tire for a couple of fish to jump through. Simple idea, but means a lot.” –by Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37827 Evan Slater Thursday, December 17, 2009 These are some photos taken during the filming of my documentary "Surfing Through Time" The documentary covers surfboard design and progression from 1937-1969, as well as a look into modern day surfing. Stayed tuned for more information about the film! Colin  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37800 ColinHerlihy Wednesday, December 16, 2009 I'm so bummed. I missed the "Quiksilver Eddie Aikau fueled by Monster Energy" (I'll call it the Eddie from now on) surf contest this year. About 2 weeks ago, I hurt my rib working on a movie. I flew into the corner of a table ribs first. I couldn't breath or barely move. After my breath came back, I stood up, and said I was fine. We did the stunt 4 or 5 more times. I was lucky, after the stunt, I got to lie down and play dead. Just doing that hurt like shit. Whatever, I made good money doing what I love. I still love going for it. I wasn't worried about the Eddie, the opening ceremony was around 2 weeks away. They never have the contest till later on in the waiting period. About a week after I hurt my rib, I tried to surf small Waimea. I made a fool of myself, and almost had to get rescued. I could not paddle with my left arm, it was pain. It's weird, at this point in my life, I try not to let the Eddie rule me. I'm lucky, I make money working outside of surfing. Life is good. Who am I kidding, the Eddie is on my mind all year long. It sucks. This year I could have paddled out, sat on the shloulder and cheerled. I know I would have been looked at as a kook. Instead, I was on the mainland shooting a fake gun on the passenger side of a car. In hindsight, I would do nothing different. If I surfed I would have surfed to survive. I want to be in it to win it. After watching the some of the webcast, i'm really bummed I wasn't healthy. Hopefully I'll be back next year. Whatever, this year hurt me mentally and physically.-- Brock http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37777 Evan Slater Monday, December 14, 2009 Imagine paintings that contain graceful female characters in art nouveau style, mixed with gambling icons like cards and spades, Asian letters, music notes and delectable sweets…this curious collage is what you will find in the paintings of Brandi Milne. Looking at her art is like playing slot machines; you can never predict what combo you might end up with, no matter how many times you pull the lever. That sense of spontaneity and excitement is what makes Milne’s art such a find.  Milne, a self-taught artist, paints in acrylic on wood panel or on covers of antique books. She draws from an array of influences, such as music, Asian culture, and her life experiences, especially those from her childhood in Anaheim, California. “As far back as I remember I’ve felt a creative pull,” says Milne. “I remember certain images from when I was wee, being obsessed with Halloween decorations, big colored bulb lights on the Christmas tree, any coloring book with thick lines, Popeye and Bugs Bunny!” Milne’s paintings often feature sugary treats, such as smiling ice cream cones, melting popsicles and peppermints. Milne explains, “Growing up I was a candy FIEND! I felt that including those images in my work added a little relatable nostalgia.” Though there is playfulness in her work, there also seems to be a solemn vibe surrounding the central characters, and a bite to the overall compositions. Regarding this darkness, Milne says, “I’ve had a pretty wonderful life, but there are recurring sad undertones and overwhelming emotional struggles that we all deal with along the way. I tap into that in my work in hopes of relating to my viewers.” At the core of her paintings is an expression of universal emotions—loss, loneliness, and love. Her personal tenderness is represented here as well, through the reoccurring image of a strawberry, which Milne describes as, “a symbol for my heart. Whether it’s bleeding, sad or being cradled.” In addition to her paintings, which have been exhibited throughout California since 2004, Milne has made irresistible plush toys, collaborated with Hurley and published her first book “So Good For Little Bunnies.” She is currently preparing for her next solo show at the Corey Helford Gallery in Culver City. “It’s gonna be a big ‘un!” she says. –By Camille Lowry / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37776 Evan Slater Monday, December 14, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37756 Evan Slater Sunday, December 13, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37748 Evan Slater Sunday, December 13, 2009 One of the few bands from the early West Coast punk scene to regularly play with original members, The Gears haven’t lost any of their original energy. Hurley talks to Gears frontman Axxell G. Reese about their lives in the fast lane.  Tell me your full name and where you’re from. Did you grow up in LA? I’m Axxel G. Reese (Christened Terry Lee Davis) and I was born in Tampa FLA, but my family moved to L.A. in 1968, just in time for all the fun and games of the late sixties. I grew up in N. E. Los Angeles (we call it N.E.L.A.) where the street gang ‘Los Avenues’ has resided for over 50 years. I moved in and around Hollywood for most of my adult life, but I’m living back in N.E.L.A. again, full circle as they say. How invested are the Gears in California car culture? The Gears all love great cars but we admire them from a distance. We usually own vehicles that can carry us and our stuff. We’re also big drag racing enthusiasts who wish we had our own Gearster to run someday...who knows? Maybe someday...but then we’d have to fight over which of us gets to drive. What’s your dream vehicle? A 1967 Chevy Camaro with a 327 3-speed if I’m racing for pinks; a 1964 original Chevy Impala (slightly lowered with classic Cragar rims) if I’m cruisin’ for a bruisin’ or have my Girl along. You started going to LA's first punk club the Masque and that’s how you got into punk culture. Tell us that story. I was lucky enough to hear about this Masque place right after the Bicentennial era, around ‘77/’78 and I happened to be a bit disgusted with corporate rock and radio at that same time. I forget where or how I heard of the place, but I was also lucky enough to have a band at the time with members in the same frame of mind I was in, and we explored The Masque together. What’s your favorite Masque memory? The first time the boys and I went, the proprietor, Brendan (Mullen) wanted to charge us at the door but made a deal with me that if I went to the store and bought him some smokes he’d let us all in. He smoked; we rocked like we never in our lives rocked! The first person I saw as we went in was Nicky Beat (from the Weirdos) with broken drum sticks duct taped onto his tennis shoes. It was a place I knew I need to be at. Which bands did you see there, and who influenced you guys the most? I saw The Bags, Controllers, Black Randy, X, Weirdos, Dils, Skulls, Screamers, Go-Gos...I saw almost everybody who played there and in hindsight I now realize how fortunate I was to be there, even as a spectator. One of my favorite shows had to be the first time I saw Black Randy because it was as it was as if I was watching Curly from the Three Stooges perform in a punk rock band. It was outrageous, especially at the time. The Gears still plays with its original members – what’s the secret to the band’s longevity? Well, we actually now have Sean Shift and Mike Manifold who have replaced Dave Drive and Brian Redz respectively on drums and bass, but Redz and Drive still occasionally sit in depending on the show and their availability. The secret to our longevity is our take on rock ‘n roll...we do it on a very accessible ‘street’ level. What do you think of the modern day punk scene and the music that comes out of it? I don’t think there is a ‘scene’ anymore, not really; not like the original scene that spawned everything that came after it. Of course I can only speak for the L.A. scene. This said; I’m still happy and a bit surprised that we still use the word ‘punk’, and still with reverence. There are a lot of younger, great bands still carrying on with it today & that’s very cool. You have the surf song “Lets Go To the Beach” - how have you and The Gears been influenced by surfer culture? If you listen closely, we’re saying “Let’s GO to the Beach” It was a rare trip for us growing up in the hood as it were. Like the fast expensive cars, we liked what we saw and felt at the beach, but were hard pressed to attain it. Surfers were like another tribe that we could visit and kick it with. Why do surfers and punk rockers enjoy a natural affinity, in your opinion? In my humble opinion it’s all about freedom. Freedom in music and lifestyle. Would you punch an alien? Only if he or she or it refused to give me a ride in their spaceship. —By Caroline Ryder / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37721 Evan Slater Friday, December 11, 2009 When prankster/artist Matt farts, people listen. And farts are funny, so Matt Furie funneled them into a popular comic book appropriately named “The Boys Club”. A surprise smash hit at Comic Con, “The Boys Club”, now in its 3rd annual issue focuses on four young, male, animal-like roommates doing mundane boy-things like playing video games and ah, farting. There are no plans to turn the comic into an animated series, but Matt has visions of who would play Brett, Pepe, Landwolf, and Andy in real time. “Brett is a dancer like Mikhail Baryshnikov, Pepe likes to eat like Jessica Simpson, Landwolf likes to party and wear shades like Lady Gaga, and Andy is a lower case jokester like ‘that's so raven’.” Aside from the recent graphic novels, Furie’s silent-but-deadly fine art style has evolved over the years from gray pencil dragons to colorful cartoonish creatures inspired by his childhood spent in Ohio watching lots of TV and hanging out with a dog named Duffy, who “liked eating pizza…once he drank some beer out of a bowl and sneezed.” Matt has always drawn animals and depicts his imaginary friends in hyper sexualized, yet detailed human scenarios. Furie packed up his rainbow colored pencils awhile back and now he’s now based in San Francisco, where he takes advantage of the great Indian food and breaks into not-so-public pools; not to skate, but swim – at night. “It's usually cool but thanks to the combination of global warming and the technology of heated swimming pools my dreams can come true. I love swimming and yeah, summer in San Francisco is too cold.” Furie is inspired by the NorCal landscape as well as his current roommates: “I have two pet rats,” Furie beams, “Wat and Foxy. They are adorable small dogs that eat a fresh salad every day.” When asked whose work he’d love to have hang next to him on a gallery, Matt answered, “Right now I'm really into Shary Boyle, a fantastic figurative artist that does work in a variety of different mediums including oils, watercolor, video projection and porcelain. Her style is deeply personal, colorful, surreal and inspiring.” Watch for Matt Furie at Space 1026 in Philadelphia this coming January, and at a gallery near you in 2010. –by Shellet Leopold / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37672 Evan Slater Wednesday, December 9, 2009 Just because something looks sweet on the outside, doesn’t mean it won’t rip your face off and chew on your eyeballs. It’s a lesson well learned for Charlie Immer, whose warped imagination knows no bounds when it comes to the mutilation of cartoon characters. “I have always been trying to see how far I can go,” says Immer. “I guess it stems from watching so many extremely violent movies when I was younger. I like to push the violence so far that you will look at it and not be disturbed.” In his paintings, creatures that look freshly plucked from a toddler’s toy box are skinned and laid bare, their innards a cartoony gore fest of pastel and neon. In another painting, a glassy-eyed skeleton plucks tiny fairy creatures from their grassy island homes and rips off their delicate heads, with a swift bite of bony jaw (Skeleton Snacks). The resultant bloodshed is massive. And in another, an Easter Egg-like bauble with spaghetti arms hovers through an anemone forest, pausing only to snatch an eyeball from an unsuspecting fellow Easter Egg (whose teeth, by the way, are sharp and menacing as a moray eel’s). “I am really into transparency and slime and water,” says Immer, who cites Dave Cooper, Travis Lampe and Mark Ryden as influences. “I like that when you tear my characters apart there’s sinew and veins and blood,” Immer continues. “It looks like candy to me…sort of delicious.” Based in Brooklyn, Immer has just released his first set of prints, of his fantastic painting Elk Puke. It shows an ethereal forest elk in Damien Hirst-like relief, sliced in half, and literally barfing its bloody guts up. (You can buy a print at Bold Hype.net.) “Elk Puke…that was actually my breakthrough painting that I did when I was at Rhode Island School of Design about three years ago,” says Immer. “I just wanted to do my own take on a forest spirit having a real emotional outpouring. It’s like he’s sick of everything, and his guts are coming out. I like that you can see through him and you can see what’s inside of him at the same time. Yeah…I really like that.” --by Caroline Ryder / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37638 Evan Slater Monday, December 7, 2009 For the past month or so, Brett Simpson didn't want to claim anything yet. Even though his third in Brazil put him well past the "cutoff mark," Brett wasn't throwing any "qualifying parties" or taking any time off. "I just want to do well in Hawaii," he said. And while his competitive stint on the North Shore didn't go as well as he hoped, he did win a heat in huge, washthrough Sunset and was a regular standout wherever he surfed. And now, with the conclusion of the O'Neill World Cup at Sunset today, Brett Simpson is absolutely, officially a 2010 ASP World Tour member. "What can I say? It feels great," says Brett. "Having the pressure off in Hawaii was nice, but it didn't make me try any less. Hawaii is still the most important place to do well." Along with Simpson, a record-breaking five new Americans qualified for the tour this year, including Patrick Gudauskas, Nate Yeomans, Tanner Gudauskas and Dusty Payne. A lot can be attributed to the work of Ian Cairns, who's been coaching Simpson, Yeomans and others and giving the confidence and know-how to make it over the hump. Simpson will be heading back over to California today in pursuit of this next big swell. The Hurley family congratulates Brett on this huge milestone. We're confident this is only the beginning for Mr. Simpson on the world stage.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37608 Evan Slater Sunday, December 6, 2009 Haven't you heard? Personalized Christmas gifts are, like, so in this year. Fortunately, 225 Forest recognizes this and has you covered. The festivities kicked off Thursday night at the Kid Robot Munny World release party with the unveiling of Dalek's new art centerpiece. (Check all the photos by clicking on "View Gallery"). The Laguna community was there en masse taking advantage of the DIY festivities, lining up out the door for signature pieces from artists Jason Maloney and Aero. “To be able to interact and give back to kids was such a joy," said Maloney. "I know they inspired me and I hope I was able to do the same for them. Hurley is all about collaborations and this was a great example of that." For more info on the Munny World toys, go to www.kidrobot.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37607 Evan Slater Sunday, December 6, 2009 This week Cooper Chapman has been up at Coolum Beach for the Australian Titles in hope of backing up last year's victory. The waves were a fun 2-3 foot all week long for the event and Chapman was notching up some of the highest heat scores... Unfortunately when it was final time Cooper lost a little sync with the ocean and finished a respectable 3rd place...The good news for Cooper is now that gets to compete at the World Juniors Titles next year in New Zealand!MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37573 Mitch Ross Friday, December 4, 2009 The Hurley Store at Kuta Square, Bali was the place it all went down last night, the launch of the new Nike Flywire Boardshort. Bottles were popping as the crowd turned out to celebrate the occasion. Hurley put on a great night serving sushi all night long and offering information on the product which has been labeled the best board short ever... Making it out for the evening were guys like Taylor Steele, Jason Childs, Lee Wilson, Betet and of course Rizal and the Hurley family. Great night, great vibe, great people and incredible board shorts...—MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37556 Evan Slater Thursday, December 3, 2009 The first ever product night in Bali happened on Monday night and was a real success. 100 retailer staff turned out for the night which was held at legendary surf bar, Tubes. The king of Bali, Rizal Tanjung and his crew put together a fun and informative evening which was hosted by the best ever and most entertaining human on this planet, Marcelo. Plenty of prizes were won, smiles on faces were seen and a lot of pizza was eaten. After the product night was over 3 local bands hit the stage and turned it on, Hurley ambassador Sari played a bunch of songs with her band and entertained everyone in the building. Next year the plan is to roll not one but a few of these nights. — MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37552 Evan Slater Thursday, December 3, 2009 Los Angeles artist Luke Chueh recently reduced his beloved workspace to rubble. He had called it his 'Shedio'. "It was a little work room that the previous owners of this house had," he says, "and it was really patched together from different projects. It was falling apart, so we tore it down." Chueh had made most of his paintings in that little workspace, work that's been shown in galleries, as vinyl toys, prints, even ending up on the cover of a Fall Out Boy album. His simple, character-driven images are spare, and feature bears and rabbits in angsty tableaux. "To me," Chueh explains, "these are all different paintings and each painting stands on its own. I don't look at them as a repeat character, but I'm trying to connect an iconic look that will help separate me from the sea of other character-driven artists out there." "The reason why I use the characters that I do," he continues, "is because it was a way to sidestep potential prejudices that might come up if I painted an Asian male or a black female. Human beings generally have prejudices, whether they like it or not. If I were painting an Asian male, I'd be instantly alienating my audience. Animals kind of shift away sexism, ageism, and racism." But that wasn't the initial impetus for him to paint them. "The reason I started using animals was because I am a self-taught painter. There was no way when I started out that I'd be able to paint something like Robert Williams or Todd Schorr or Mark Ryden. My skills were nowhere close to that level, so I started with cartoons because it was all I was able to paint." He had plenty of company as an artist who painted animals, and began along with Gallery 1988 in Los Angeles to organize large group shows, called Vivisect. "It's of artists who use animal characters to illustrate the human condition." November 2009 sees the sixth incarnation of the show—and the last. "All good things have to come to an end," he says. Luke Chueh will have a solo show at Los Angeles' Copro Gallery in May 2010, his first without the 'shedio,' though not to worry: "I should have a new one done this week, so I'm excited to get back to work!" –by Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37513 Evan Slater Tuesday, December 1, 2009  A fun weekend down in jupiter for the fall classic.    Team riders cheyne cottrell, oliver kurtz , mikey detemple , and myself attended the contest.  The first day was about as bad as it could be. knee high waves breaking right on the beach with rocks everywhere. All of us somehow got through the first round. The next day was at least ridable with waist high mushy windswell. Cheyne surfed really well for it being small and barely got knocked out in the semi-finals. mikey got 3rd in the longboard finals and i got last in the mens final. i just couldn't find a wave in the 25 minute finale. It was a great turnout for the event, with bands, a bikini contest, hot girls everywhere, and a awesome beer tent going on at all times.  ASHER  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37500 Asher Nolan Tuesday, December 1, 2009 Time was, there wasn't a person alive who wouldn't want to live in a Shag painting, at least for a while. You'd be bedding attractive mates one after another, you'd dress impeccably, and the drink in your hand would sustain you just the perfect level of buzz throughout your evening. Shag's art lived like that for a decade. "A lot of my earlier work espoused a consequence-free hedonism," he says. "But in reality you can't live that way for long. That was something I didn't really want to face up to." He had his moments of being tired with his own work. "At one time the themes and the settings were really exciting to me, but over time, I felt like I was less and less invested in it, and it almost felt like I was working in a factory. I had to make a set of paintings for my next gallery show, and they had to be Shag-like paintings that everybody loved. I decided that I didn't want to do that any more, I wanted to do something that interested me. Over ten years, your interests change. The things that you want to paint change." In Autumn's Come Undone, Shag's new show at Corey Helford Gallery, he gives fans a reason to look deeper and those who had grown tired a reason to look back. For one thing, you don't want to live in them. "I used to be a very non-self-reflective person, I didn't spend a lot of time paying attention to my emotions and what was going on inside my head, and in the past year I started to pay more attention to that. I started to pay more attention to the dreams I was having." "I also got to a point in my life where I was really successful. I was making a lot of money, have a nice house, a wife and two kids, drive a nice car, get to go on vacations. But it was starting to bore me, and I felt that I was trapped in a factory having to make these paintings to keep up this lifestyle." The show includes 22 small paintings and 16 large (54" x 72") canvas giclee prints on canvas, fantastic landscapes you don't want to be a part of. In 'Prince from the Biomass,' people line up to descend into a hole. In 'Lone Star,' bottles of Maker's Mark float in a pond of something green. The party's over. –By Caleb Neelon / Hurley Art For more on Shag's exhibit, visit: www.coreyhelfordgallery.com . http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37471 Evan Slater Sunday, November 29, 2009 If you don't write things down on the North Shore, it's easy for the details to get away from you. And a lot has happened since our own Joel Centeio's big win at Haleiwa. We have a new women's world champion (Congrats on No. 3, Steph.) We had Rell Sunn's Menehune event this weekend (good on ya, Kaulana and Elijah.) We had a solid swell hit the Outer Reefs and Waimea on Wednesday (welcome back, Aamion.) We winced as Dillon Perillo took a board to the eye, got five stitches, but is back in the water a few days later. And we've welcomed the arrival of Phantom Man, Damien "Dom" Wills to the seven-mile miracle. Fortunately, we have Michael Lallande and Tom Aiello on hand to document all this action, and there's been plenty. Next up: Joel looks to continue his winning streak at Sunset. Brett looks to end his stellar competitive season on a high note. And Dom is looking for anything — and we mean anything — to pull into. Until then, enjoy the latest batch of images from Lallande and stay tuned for more Waves of the Day from the Hurley Ohana. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37458 Evan Slater Saturday, November 28, 2009 This was a camp that Hurley Oz put on to help out its athletes in all areas from heat drills, strength and conditioning, fitness, stretching and so much more. Lead by former World Champ Barton Lynch, the camp took place at Whale Beach on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. With Ace and Yadin both having competitive commitments at the time of the camp that left us with Damien 'Dom' Wills, Mitch Crews, Cooper Chapman( Current under 16 Oz Champ), Max Weston and Harrison Vann to work on their A game. To kick things off, we rented an absolute mansion on the hill at Whale Beach... The first day was jam packed with training, we got up early and went and visited the Narrabeen Sports Academy so the boys could get evaluated. Cooper was a local at the training facility so he felt comfortable but that didn't mean he would stand out the most, with Dom's big wave fitness he was at the elite level showing the grommets how it's done. Straight from there it was off to the beach for a whole lot of heat drills... Obviously this is where Barton Lynch really comes in to play, this guy is awesome, to have a former world champ on the beach is so beneficial for the guys. Excluding Dom all these guys want to be competitive surfers and Barton is there for them in any way at all. After our surf session we would always go back to the house and the boys we pick Barton's competitive mind whilst watching the days footage. Over the next few days we would tick all the boxes, video analysis, media training, swimming session, we even brought in one of the best surfboard shapers going around, Lee Stacey to chat about boards, the importance of having the correct equipment for you. Lee was great and answered all of the boys questions... Over the 4 days we had a filmer capturing all of the action and soon as we have got a clip together i will get it up on the site! MR http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37423 Evan Slater Wednesday, November 25, 2009 On 22rd, November 2009, a sunny day with NNE swell, side offshore wind  and cool temperatures to treat this competition completed smoothly. God bless surfing...    This year X Game is so happy to have Hurley International to be our  title sponsor, Hurley also sent Mr. Rizal Tanjung (General Manager of  Hurley South Asia) the Bali legendary pro surfer to this event, helped  out for the judging as well as a demo session. Rizal said "this is  quite a nice concept to camp on the site and the hiking trail is  beautiful, the crowd was willing to make such effort to go all the way  there are core and keen in surfing, I like that!"   The competition started at 9:50am with the horn by Grant Robinson (the  head judge) and heats back to back non stop, we had to run 2 race  courses to complete all the heats on time and finished the last heat  at around 4:00pm. We had total 75 competitors this year the most  entries ever, plus hundreds of friends and spectators make this event  full of beats.   Thanks to all the sponsors: Channel Islands Surfboards, Sanuk, Skull  Candy, Team Relax, Asahi and Red Bull. Also great thanks to all the  judges, helpers on the beach, F&B team, DJs and Hoi Fung Store to make  another successful event for X Game.   Results:   Men's A 1st: Jason Guy (Australia) 2nd: Cris Par (Philippines) 3rd: Barak Nachmani (Israel)   Men's B 1st: Atticus Summers (Australia) 2nd: Hugo D'Auriol (French) 3rd: Man Hing Wan (Hong Kong)   Women's 1st: Niu Chen Lin (Taiwan) 2nd: Chan Sin Man (Hong Kong) 3rd: Iris Lim (Malaysia)   Boy's 1st: Atticus Summers (Australia) 2nd: Hugo D'Auriol (French) 3rd: Joe Keogh (Australia)     http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37414 Evan Slater Wednesday, November 25, 2009 Ask anyone about Joel Centeio, and you'll hear it time and again: "Nicest guy in the world." But after today, you can also add "2009 Reef Hawaiian Pro Champion" to his name. Hurley's Ambassador of Aloha went all out in the 6- to 8-foot surf at Haleiwa today, winning all seven of his heats, beating Parko and finding a huge, heat-winning barrel in the final for a 9.33. Joel's always a force in his hometown waters, but this past week, he's never looked so formidable. "It all just clicked for me this time around," said an elated Centeio. "A lot of my friends -- us guys who surf Haleiwa all the time -- have done well out here. Moody and Kekoa last year, Freddy...I just wanted to keep the tradition going." He did more than keep tradition going. With his win, he catapulted up to 51st in the World Qualifying Series rankings and has a commanding lead in the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing race. Sunset's next, another one of his strong points. Stay tuned as Joel continues his campaign to a coveted Vans Triple Crown title. As he's already proven, he's only getting better.   [Check the photo highlights by Michael Lallande.] For more info, go to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37388 Evan Slater Monday, November 23, 2009 Good waves are officially on the way! The first jewel of the Triple Crown will finish in solid 6-8 foot Haleiwa. It’s a bummer for some of the Hurley boys that would of probably did well if the waves were solid. Unfortunately Yades, Brad, and Hawaii’s own Kai Barger came up short in the tiny lefts at Haleiwa. Simpo and Ace have not surfed a heat yet but are probably psyching to get on some big boards and into some solid surf. Look for Simpo to further cement his CT berth this Sunday and Monday at Haleiwa. Another really solid west northwest is predicted for the middle of next week. From what I’m seeing on the charts Pipe could be a solid 10-feet-plus on Wednesday. I’m excited to see Aamion get back into form at Pipeline. This is also really good news for the second jewel of the Triple Crown at Sunset Beach that will begin on November 24th. Until then, check out the fun, head-high surf that’s been on tap the last few days. -– Joel C. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37360 Evan Slater Saturday, November 21, 2009 "I can't believe it's almost over," said Rob Machado last night from the 225 Forest store. He was sitting at a throng of autograph seekers lined up down the stairs and out the door. It's something Rob's gotten used to at these Drifter premieres. Huge turnouts, support and interest in the movie that took almost two years to make. "We've had such a good time on this tour. I'm flattered and humbled by the amount of people who've shown up to every single venue. San Luis Obispo was amazing. New Jersey was classic. Even though they can be grueling, you forget how fun these tours can be." And after nearly a month on the road and tens of thousands of new Drifter devotees, it's finally coming to a close. To send it off properly, we held an event at 225 Forest last night, including an autograph signing and live acoustic performance by Rob and Jon Swift. We then armed everyone with free popcorn and candy and sent them over to a packed house at the South Beach Theater. Machado has another premiere tonight at Patagonia in Cardiff and another one tomorrow night in Oceanside, but after that, he's off to Hawaii to get back in the water and start drifting again. Thanks to everyone who came out and watched the movie, watched the live music and participated in the Q&As. Keep wandering. For more, go to www.thedriftermovie.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37329 Evan Slater Friday, November 20, 2009 The fall is my favorite time to be in Delaware. The summer is over,  it's time to kick back with friends  and have a little fun. These  shots are from my favorite wave, Southside, as well as the O'Boyle ramp. Colin    http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37261 ColinHerlihy Tuesday, November 17, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37145 Evan Slater Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Hurley was part of a historic occasion this Halloween—Robert Williams, founder of Juxtapoz Magazine and icon of the low brow art scene, unveiled 25 highly-anticipated new works at the Tony Scharfazi Gallery in New York, and among them were three pieces that he had invited Hurley to exclusively recreate as part of a limited edition series of t-shirts. The show, entitled “Conceptual Realism In the Service of the Hypothetical” was most definitely high brow in name and in intent (Williams’ artist’s statement , in which he breaks down the philosophy of conceptual art, is worded so as to appeal largely to critics and theorists.) But the work itself was gleefully accessible—one wouldn’t expect anything less from the artist who invented the term "lowbrow", with his groundbreaking 1979 book, Lowbrow Art of Robt. Williams. Inspired and schooled by legendary custom car builder Ed "Big Daddy" Roth in the mid-1960s, Robert Williams learned, along with his peers (Robert Crumb, Gilbert Shelton, S. Clay Wilson, Spain Rodriguez, Victor Moscoso and Rick Griffin) how to carve his own path and exist outside the walls of traditional contemporary galleries. Initially dismissed as a rookie outsider, it took many years for Williams and those of his ilk to gain the respect they deserved. On October 31 2009, the well-dressed crowds at the Tony Scharfazi gallery spoke for themselves— Caroline Ryder / Hurley Art For more, go to: www.robtwilliamsstudio.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37098 Evan Slater Tuesday, November 10, 2009 Don’t be deceived by Jeremy Fish’s aquatic last name—the San Francisco-based artist is all about mammals. Living ones, dead ones, financially-disadvantaged ones—and armadillos. Especially armadillos. We talk to Jeremy about his solo show at the Laguna Art Museum (called “Weathering The Storm”, it opens November 7) and discuss rabbits, hard times and his alter-ego, Dick Tickles. JEREMY FISH—THAT’S A COOL NAME. Every once in a while that is the opening question in an interview: “why did you choose that to be your art name?”. But it is actually my real name. If I had to actually choose a name I would have picked something else. Like when I was a kid I used to get in trouble for skateboarding, so I would give the authorities a fake name. Me and my friends would challenge each other to raise the bar and come up with the most ridiculous fake name ever. Mine was Dick Tickles. YOU HAVE A SOLO SHOW COMING UP AT THE LAGUNA MUSEUM OF ART—CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE WORK YOU’LL BE SHOWING? Well I’ll have acrylic on wood and a lot of drawings and mostly all paintings and 80% of paintings and a few wood and sculptures and a bit of furniture that I have been working on. YOU’RE KNOWN FOR YOUR ANIMAL-INSPIRED ART…CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE LOTS OF THAT IN THIS UPCOMING SHOW? Most definitely—it’s animals across the board in this one. More specifically, the theme is about hard times—an easily-digestible theme these days. As human beings you would like to hope that through difficult times you can gain knowledge or better yourself through the experience. The positive outlook is that yes, we are all going through hard times, and we just continue trudging forward. I illustrate the theme with a library of animals instead of people. It’s a 40-piece story with all these animals quarreling over the last of the natural resources and evolving to become stronger. ARE THERE ANY NEW ANIMALS IN THIS SHOW? I did a road trip through Texas with my dad and we saw all these armadillos dead on the side of the road. They get hit by cars—it is sad, they have these really cool little faces. I had never seen one up close before. The last six paintings I did were inspired by that trip through the Southwest—I did a buffalo and an armadillo and a wolf, for instance. ANY PARTS OF THE HUMAN ANATOMY INSPIRING YOU RIGHT NOW? There are a lot of hands in the show. I use hands because they are really powerful—they provide the gateway to being tactile. And they project so much emotion. ARE YOU INTO TAXIDERMY? I own a little taxidermy—a really nice antelope and a pigeon. And I would love to have a stuffed armadillo. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL CHARACTER? I use the rabbit the most—I think that’s mostly because I was drawing them before I took drawing that seriously. There’s this gang I had with my friends in high school and the pink bunny was the symbol of our gang. I still draw it the same way I used to back then. He is my favorite animal character and he has the largest army of meanings. I use him across the board to mean family, and loved ones, and speed and agility and a rebellious nature. --Caroline Ryder http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37091 Evan Slater Tuesday, November 10, 2009 It's been quite a year for Huntington Beach kingpin Brett Simpson. A US Open title (along with a $100,000 first-place check.) A Surfer Magazine Breakthrough Performer of the Year award. And now, after finishing ninth at the O'Neill Coldwater Classic in Santa Cruz this past weekend, it appears he's a lock for the elite 2010 ASP World Tour. "I would say he's safe," says ASP tour manager Al Hunt, who says the cut-off point is 12,500 points. Simpson's latest result puts him at 13,150 points and seventh in the rankings, well above the danger zone. This means he can relax at the events in Hawaii and focus on making an impact against the Top 45 next year. "This is everything I've been working toward since I was a kid," said Simpson. "It's such a good feeling to reach this point, but I know there's a lot of work to be done. Making the tour is just the first step." After four years of close calls, Simpson finally had the year go his way in 2009. A strong start in Oz, the big US Open victory, a semifinal in Brazil and now this solid finish at the Coldwater. Simpson, along with Patrick Gudauskas and Nate Yeomans, is part of a new American crop of ASP WT surfers destined to shake it up against the top seeds. Congratulations to Brett for reaching a huge milestone in his career. We know his impact on the world stage is just beginning. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37079 Evan Slater Sunday, November 8, 2009 Went to Ehukai yesterday with my brother Anthony. He lives over here and works at Ola's restaurant at Turtle Bay.  We paired off on some nice 2 to 3 foot waves. Plenty of waves for everybody.  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37078 Eli Viszolay Saturday, November 7, 2009 Arrived at my new studio in V-Land on the North Shore of Oahu.  Been surfing V-Land and Ehukai. Pics to come. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37072 Eli Viszolay Saturday, November 7, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37049 Evan Slater Friday, November 6, 2009 http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37017 Evan Slater Friday, November 6, 2009 Rob Machado and Taylor Steele's three-week domestic tour of The Drifter began last night at La Paloma Theater in Encinitas, the place where it all began. "I remember premiering Momentum here back in the day," said Steele. With two full houses, tons of hoots and laughs and a special live jam session during the 18-minute bonus segment, things are just getting started. "It went great," said Machado. "The jam session during the 9 p.m. just sort of happened. I think we're going to be doing more of that moving forward." Here are a few images from last night, courtesy of Surfline's Jeremiah Klein. Click here for the review on Surfline. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/37006 Evan Slater Thursday, November 5, 2009 I'm going off to "work" on the mainland for a couple of weeks, and for some reason I thought I'd write a few words. I put work in quotation marks because what I do for a job isn't real work. I get dressed in a costume, and on this movie I'll run around after some guy making millions. I stress about it, but refering to it as work doesn't feel right. I could probably get fired for writing this much about the movie, but I'll take a chance. Don't tell anybody you read this, everybody who works on a movie signs a super duper do not disclose any info about anything waiver. If anything is disclosed, you're fired. Anyway, I surfed V-land this morning. Sean Hayes was out with Shane Beschen. They were just finishing a coaching seminar with the Red Bull team. Carrisa, Brother Andino,and Conner coffin?, were all getting the benefits of their wisdom. Those kids don't need coaching, its not fair. But then again, I'd love to coach those kids, cause as a coach they'd make me look like a genius. I missed the Mavericks opening ceremony yesterday. I was on Lost, hanging on a cable (not too much info). I'm stoked I still get invited to the event, so I'm bummed I had to "work". I'm thinking about going up there to just go surf, we'll see. Its always good to freeze my ass, makes me appreciate home.--Brock http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36984 Evan Slater Tuesday, November 3, 2009 At the moment I’m sitting on the North Shore enjoying the nice breeze and the gorgeous weather. I flew over for a bit of a strike mission… It would have been the ultimate strike mission if the waves were pumping, but it's pretty much flat. Redbull is doing a little training camp with a few of the juniors, including Evan and myself. They flew Ryan and me over to hopefully get some stuff done. Unfortunately, the waves have been pretty small, but we’ve still been surfing. Purps and Shane Beschen have been putting us to work doing mini comps at random waves that practically don’t exist to most people on the North Shore. Thanks to PJ we had a sweet dinner at Lei Lei’s last night. I got a huge rack of ribs with some mash potatoes and I ate almost the whole thing. When I got back to my house, I left it on the wall to our gate. When I woke up this morning I went to grab it, but I found that someone had cruised by, opened my to-go box, and ate my ribs but left the box on the ground… What the hell! Some sucker made off with my scrumptious ribs! Well, I thought you guys might enjoy checking out this video since it has to do with bacon, somewhat similar to ribs. I like to eat and so does this little kid. Maybe it was even myself a few years ago… For you to decide. See ya. Ceester.  Click here for the video. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36983 Evan Slater Tuesday, November 3, 2009  I have been going through boards faster than Courtney Love goes through prescription Vicodin.  It seemed like every time a paddled out I would end up with some kind of fracture or crease on my board from surfing like an idiot.  To end this massacre of my little sticks, I got a Firewire that is exceptionally more durable than your traditional poll-urethane surfboard being it has  a "triple density EPS core with parabolic edges, lined with high-density aerospace composite material." Firewire Surfboards All Rights Reserved.  Wow, is that really a surfboard?  It sounds like the description  foreign compact car manufacturers, like Tata®, give their new cars although their products buckle at the fulcrum if they go in excess of 25 miles per hour unlike the Firewire Surfboard because they are so cheap and poorly manufactured. With all this extra support I pray that this board will last me longer than three months or I am going to be fired up.  So far so good and all she has experienced from my lead foot surfing is one pressure ding and a small crack in the tail.  Say your prayers for me...or maybe just my board. -BP   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36978 Ben Powell Monday, November 2, 2009 This week me, my Dad, my Mom and my dog named "Rocky" piled into our SUV... and headed up to Santa Cruz to train with Ian "Kanga" Cairns and the USA Junior Team. I was super excited to get on the road to surf Steamer Lane and other Santa Cruz spots that get good this time of year. Yes, I knew it was going to be risky taking my 25lb French Bulldog along for the trip since he hates cold weather and likes to fart alot. Although he did fog up the car with a few nasty ones, he was really easy and fun to have along for the trip The weather was as nice as can be with sunny, clear days and cold nights but the surf was really small. Our first session at "The Lane" was barely breaking at the high tide. We were the only people to paddle out at 7:00am in the fridgid knee high inconsistent surf. After a few waves, we decided to hit a more remote spot about 20 minuets up the coast. We found a beach break with fun peaks at a place the locals jokingly refer to as "Shark Park". At one point in the session a few dolphins popped up in the lineup and gave Cam Richards quite a scare when everyone on the beach yelled  "Come in"!I would say the highlight of this surf trip was our afternoon session at a place that I will not name. Many of you will notice it from the pictures. But this place is a wedging, sand bottom bowling peak off the side of some cliffs. The cliffs provide shelter from the wind and the sand builds around the rocks making shallow sand bars. Even though the session did not last long, everyone had a blast in the 2-3ft perfect peaks with mini air sections. So, the drive home was about 8 hours back to San Diego and Rocky had eaten some bad dog food, and we all paid for that the whole way home.Shoots.....Jake   http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36938 Jake Halstead Saturday, October 31, 2009 Here is a shot that just came out in the OC Register. This day was really fun and I actually saw some of the Hurley boys leaving when I showed up. Stoked to get some coverage in the paper — it was a great surprise! —Christian Saenz  http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36921 Christian Saenz Thursday, October 29, 2009 As soon as Rob touched down in Sydney it was time to work. After a quick rest, we had Rob doing all sorts of media work, local papers, national papers, surfing magazines, Fuel TV, etc... Rob cruised through Sydney, enjoying his time through Manly, Avalon and of course the city. The whole reason Rob is in town is, of course, for his new movie, The Drifter. The premiere was a lot of fun with surf royalty stopping by to check it out. Two-time world champ Tom Carroll came and watched it and loved what he saw: "Rob's always been a favorite and I loved the movie," he said. Before the show started Rob played a bunch of songs from the film and afterward he hung around and answered a bunch of questions from the captive audience. Tomorrow the tour rolls on as Rob will be stopping by at some retailers to say, 'what up' and also show them the film... —MR For more on The Drifter and tour dates, go to: www.thedriftermovie.com. http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36902 Evan Slater Wednesday, October 28, 2009 We all know 13-year-old skate prodigy Curren Caples has a flawless "surf" style. But what most people don't know is that the Ventura resident is quickly becoming as skilled in the water as is he is on cement. For proof, check the results of the recent Volcom VQS event on Kauai, where Curren happened to be there on a family vacation and happened to enter the contest on a whim. "They let him in as a 'seventh man' in the first round," said his dad Evan. "He was skins." But Curren squeaked through the first heat, made it through the second, then the semis. Before he knew it, he was up against some of the heaviest little big guns in the surf world: Ian Gentil and Koa Smith. Granted, it was waist-high, semi-walled Pine Trees. But Curren went out, clicked on a couple rights, and ended up winning the contest. He's now automatically qualified for the VQS Championships in Newport next May. Curren himself is pretty casual about it all and is quick to praise the talents of Gentil and Smith. But we know what this could mean. With a little more time in the water (his skate schedule currently keeps him away from the ocean for weeks at a time), Curren could be the first legitimate skate/surf crossover star since the Dogtown days. Keep checking those surf mags for the other "Curren." http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36860 Evan Slater Tuesday, October 27, 2009 I haven't written a blog in a while, and I have all kinds of excuses why I don't have the time to write. I've been working on ...Lost (I'm not sure why I put the ...), I've been in a movie with Seth Rogan (great guy), I've been surfing a lot (yeah right). My excuses are weak. I'm lazy. About a month ago, Pat O called and told me I was going to do some commentating on the webcast for the Hurley Pro at Tresles. I tried to wiggle my way out, but when Pat sets his mind to something there is no changing it. I was on my way to Cal. For most people this probably sounds fun. Hurley pays my way to the mainland, gives me great accommodations (Pat's couch), and Pat takes me out to dinner, lets me drink his wine and eat his ice cream. All I have to do is bullshit about the best surfers in the world. I know this makes me sound like a puss, but talking on the web is scary. Let me go paddle in at Waimea, or do some dumb stunt, those are things I can handle. Walking into the webcast booth, that's intimidating. Once I get going, it's all good, and then come the e-mails. In between questions and "Atta boy Brock" is the constructive criticism all the webcasters love. Stuff like "You're a kook," "I'm tired of Brock already" etc., all that crap tends to stick with you more than the love letters. This year the waves were inconsistent, but I thought the contest was still insane. The level of pro surfing is so high. This was the first time in at least a decade, I walked away not sure who the best surfer in the world is. For me it's always been Kelly. This year, I thought a few of the guys had reached his level, or maybe he slipped a little. Could be his boards suck. Whatever, now I feel like Kelly's one of the best, with company. Can't wait to webcast next year, if Kelly's on tour he'll prove me wrong. If he's retired, he'll e-mail me and call me a kook.—Brock http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36849 Evan Slater Monday, October 26, 2009 It’s that time of year again.  The time where thousands flock to the North Shore for the huge winter swells.   I just recently took my very necessary step to getting ready for those big swells.  Got the brand new quiver!  My North Shore quiver consists of about 17 boards.  Ranging from 6’3 all way up to 7’6.  I like to have atleast 2-3 of each dimension.  Just because you have to expect to break a few in the time frame of the winter swells.  Majority of my quiver is shaped by Eric Arakawa who I believe is the best big wave board shaper in the world.  I also have a few Kerry Tokoro’s.  It’s already been a great early season with a lot of good swell, so I’m really looking forward to getting some good use out of these sticks.  Thanks to HIC for supplying me with this awesome quiver!   Aloha, Joel http://www.hurley.com/blog.cfm/aid/36840 Joel Centeio Monday, October 26, 2009 For more than 30 years in the surf world, the name "Flame" meant only one thing: a fiery, red-haired photo editor who controlled our sport's imagery with an iron trigger finger. Demanding? Yes. Meticulous? Absolutely. Fiercely competitive? You bet. But beyond his intimidating reputation was a man who loved to see young talent develop. During his long tenure at SURFING Magazine, Larry "Flame" Moore was never too busy to give a rookie photographer advice, feedback or encouragement. And during that time, everyone from Dan Merkel to Aaron Chang to Jeff Hornbaker to Jeff Flindt to Pete Taras have Flame to thank for helping them develop their vision. When Flame succumbed to a brain tumor in October 2005, his friends and loved ones decided to keep this legacy alive by creating the Follow The Light Foundation. Now in its fourth year, Follow The Light awards a $5,000 grant to a deserving, up-and-coming photographer. In years past it's gone to names like Chris Burkard and Todd Glaser, two of the most respected young lensmen in the field right now. This past Thursday at the Surfing Heritage Foundation in San Clemente, we