Meanwhile, Copacabana’s Matt Wilkinson is through to Round Three at J-Bay, but not before some nervous moments against Michael February.
An opening 6.17 was bettered by the local wildcard, before the World ratings leader posted a 6.93 to secure a narrow victory.
While he’s keen to be the first goofy footer since 1984 to win the event, he believes Mick Fanning is the man to beat.
Avoca’s Ace Buchan is due to surf against Joan Duru when the contest resumes.
(Image Courtesy of WSL Kelly Cestari)
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