Race for the Gold with Power Countries Australia, Brazil and USA in Top Three Position

Huntington Beach, Calif., October 21, 2006 – Day seven was met with glassy head high to overhead conditions as the heats narrowed the field of the remaining 56 athletes who weathered nine days of action packed surfing, perfect weather and jubilant support of their teammates all in the race to garner a gold, silver, bronze, and copper medal. At the day’s end, Australia leads the pack in first place, with Brazil narrowly following them and Team USA in third.

The Open Division saw some of the best surfers in the world with power countries Brazil, Australia and USA in a wave to wave mêlée culminating with Alejo Muniz (13.73) of Brazil is 16 year oldIS AJunior World chapion Under 16 taking first over Damien Hobgood and Gavin Gillette of Hawaii.  Pat O’Connell took second in the heat with a combined 13.60. Australia’s Luke Stedman will also advance after posting a 16.63 after grabbing a long ride in the last 8 minutes of the heat.

“Today was a really important day for the Games.  I got some really fun waves, but I definitely felt some added pressure to do well because I was surfing for my team,” said Whitaker.

One of the most anticipated heats of the day matched Team USA surfers Julia Christian and 13 year-old Courtney Conlogue with Hawaii’s Bethany Hamilton in the Women’s Open division.  With some great backhand snaps it was USA team anchors Christian and Conologue advancing leaving Hamilton behind with a standing ovation on the beach for her tremendous dedication to the sport. USA team womens surfers will meet Brazil’s Jacqueline Silva and Rosanee Hodges of South Africa who all stand a strong chance of gleaming gold medals at the approaching awards ceremony. “We have had great waves and weather all week, but tomorrow is where the plot thickens to see if we get through,” commented newly elected ISA Vice President and Surfing America executive director Mike Gerard.

Teammates Nichola Atherton and Jessie Miley –Dyer of Australia will both surf in the Repercharge tomorrow after defeating Diane de Souza of Brazil and Tamlynne Smith who will sit in 7th and 8th place respectively.

In Longboard Repercharge Phil Rajzman of Brazil advanced with his remarkable top turn combinations, and will meet Colin Mc Phillips of USA who has been consistently impressing juges with his fluid style throughout the week.

The day wound down with the ISA Nations Cup tag team event, a unique ISA tradition where the top eight countries compete for first through fourth place medals. Although this event has no bearing on the team world championship results it is a fun aside to the contest that shows a different surfing format and give teams another chance at medals. Each team has the option to catch 3 waves, and claim their two highest toward their team score. The ISA Nations Cup will also be contested tomorrow by between semi winners Australia, Costa Rica, Brazil and South Africa.

The gripping Finals of the nine day competition will commence tomorrow at 7 a.m. with 30 remaining surfers fighting the gold, silver, and bronze team and individual medals. With a team of seven athletes Australia will compete against Brazil’s six remaining athletes, with USA closely behind with four surfer. After the front runners, South Africa has been left with three athletes, followed by Spain, Portugal and France with two, and Hawaii, Japan, Great Britain, Puerto Rico who have one remaining athlete in the competition for individual medals.

The Closing Ceremonies will begin immediately following the Men’s Final Heat to the North side of the Pier at 2:15 p.m.  Also, the coveted IOC President’s trophy will be presented to the Team Champion by ISA President Fernando Aguerre who said “What a great way of celebrating surfing and our hopes for a peaceful world; 33 nations spending 12 days together enjoying life together in true Olympic spirit.”

LIVE VIDEO WEBCAST AND SCORING:

Fans worldwide can check out the action from with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa.

PHOTOS: High resolution photos are available for media and the public viewing and downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php .

About International Surfing Association (ISA)

The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding and surfriding.  It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964, and the Junior World Championships since 1980.

ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries on six continents.  Its headquarters are located in San Diego, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected five times since.  The ISA's four Vice Presidents are from South Africa, Australia, Hawaii and the USA.



About Surfing America

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding.  

Surfing America, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization.  All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250.  For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes.  Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.

About Lost Energy drink

...Lost is the authentic energy drink brand for those of us who connect with the youthful action sports lifestyle. …Lost’s roots are in producing surfboards and action sports apparel sold only in core surf, skateboard and snowboard shops.  The crew at MONSTER makes …Lost with a select blend of vitamins, herbs and amino acids for a powerful boost and a crisp flavor that tastes good and mixes even better. …Lost is the #8 Energy Brand in the US. *Source AC Nielsens Total US CTMM 13 weeks ending 7/29/06.

Media Contacts

Hilary Craven/ Jennifer Mangiacapre                                            

SnL Communications                                          

hcraven@snlc.net/ jmangiacapre@snlc.net                                                  

tel:310.996.0239 ext.106   

mobile: 310.365.6438/910.262.3364             

fax:310.996.0249

South African Pride Soars with the Best Trick in Open Shortboard and Win Over USA in Longboard Brazil Posts First Perfect 1 0 of the Competition in Men’s Bodyboard

Huntington Beach, Calif., October 20, 2006 –The heat was on in Day Six of the Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games and all competitorsaggressively surfed for a perfect score. Temperatures were in the mid 80’s with shoulder high waves with the occasional overhead set pulling in. The competition was fierce as the imminent elimination forced teams to really punctuate their performance . 

The morning was filled with paddle battles and a string of maneuvers in all divisions.  Dark horses, team Costa Rica swept through the Repercharge the heats with Luis Vindas and Gilbert Brown both taking first.

It was a battle to the finish in all eight of the Open Men’s Repercharge heats but the most fiery battle was between USA team’s CJ Hobgood, ranked seven in the ASP, and 2003 ISA World Junior Champion Jordy Smith of South Africa. Both competitors fought for first position and responded to each wave that was ridden by their opponent. Each wave they secured posted higher scores amidst the dual but. in the end, Smith clenched the win from Hobgood in the last minute.  Smith’s remarkable week of surfing culminated in the moment when he nailed a double-grab superman earning him 9.77.

“Jordy has so much talent and I knew I had to step it up when I found out he was in my heat. I watched his right air reverse that earned him an 8.5 and I knew I had to get to the next level. He must’ve felt the pressure because the very next wave, he answered right back with that crazy air and ended it with the bang in the last minute. I was clapping from the shore,” said Hobgood.



Both Smith and Hobgood posted the first and second single and combined wave scores of the day for the Shortboard division with a 17.77 and 15.27 respectively.

The crowd exploded on the beach in Heat 3 of Repercharge 6 as Diego Cadena of Mexico managed to grab the second spot after Kaui, Hawaii surfer Sebastian Zietz  with a 7.27 narrowly edging out Blake Thomton of Australia.. 

In Heat 1, Matthew Moir sent three time Longboard World Champion Colin McPhillips into the Repercharge round when he earned both the highest single wave score and the highest combined score of 8.50 and a 16.60.  Also advancing forward is Benjamin Skinner of Great Britain and Bonga Perkins of Hawaii whose abilities to combine short board skills with classic longboard fluidity proved successful.

“The waves were the best I’ve ever seen in Huntington Beach. I had to mix noseriding with modern maneuvers. I’ve known Colin for some time now and I’ve surf with these guys for years. I finally got him!” said Moir of his win over McPhillips.

Michel Demont of Tahiti impressed judges and  clinched the first place slot with just three waves in his heat. On his final wave, Demont took off straight to the nose of the board for a stellar ride securing him with a 11.43 combined score.

The Bodyboarding division also showcased some thrilling rides, when Uri Valadoa of Brazil posted the first perfect 10 of the contest in the Men’s Bodyboard Qualifying 4 competition. Valadoa shot out of a left barrel and performed a huge ARS off the top of the lip leaving the judges in awe. His second wave score was a 9.5 when he once again squeezed out of closeout barrel for a incredible 19.5 combined.

A very humble Valadoa said, “My teammates had to tell me which wave was the 10 because I didn’t even know. I was lucky today because I didn’t do anything wrong when the waves came to me. The set took a long time to come but I was lucky to get the best wave and did everything wave asked me to do.”

Amaury Lavernhe of France and Alvaro of Spain pushed through to the final Repercharge round after both capitalized on a barreling set that came through late in the afternoon.

The ladies also excelled in the Bodyboarding Qualifier 3 with Moe Watanabe one of the strongest riders from Japan posted an astonishing 18.33, the contest’s second highest score.

The Repercharge Round Four saw an equal amount of action with Rita Pires of Portugal, Kira Llewellyn of Australia and Marina Taylor of Spain in a neck-to-neck battle. In the last 20 seconds of the heat, an interference was called on Pires who was tied for first place with Llewellyn pushing her to third position.



It was Kira Llewellyn of Australia who took first over Tara Parsons of the USA in the Repercharge with a combined score of 17.33. Llewellyn posted the highest single wave score of 9.00 when she performed a spin in the barrel pocket followed by a barrel roll, taking the first position slot from Parsons.

 

“I haven’t competed since end of august because I’ve been injured and barely surfed before the Games, but the conditions are nice and this south swell makes some great peaks” said Llewellyn.

As another sun filled day closed, competitors wound down in preparation for the semi finals tomorrow. Australia sits in first place, with Brazil in second and USA holding on strongly in third position.  Nearly half of the original 33 teams will compete tomorrow in hopes of making it to the coveted finals and the IOC trophy.  

Competition will move to a single Podium tomorrow beginning at 7:00 a.m with Mens Open, Womens Open, and Longboard.  Be sure to catch the Semifinal tag team beginning at 12:40 p.m.  Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php   

About International Surfing Association (ISA)

The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding and surfriding.  It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964, and the Junior World Championships since 1980.

ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries on six continents.  Its headquarters are located in San Diego, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected five times since.  The ISA's four Vice Presidents are from South Africa, Australia, Hawaii and the USA.



About Surfing America

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding.  

Surfing America, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization.  All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250.  For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes.  Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.

About Lost Energy drink

...Lost is the authentic energy drink brand for those of us who connect with the youthful action sports lifestyle. …Lost’s roots are in producing surfboards and action sports apparel sold only in core surf, skateboard and snowboard shops.  The crew at MONSTER makes …Lost with a select blend of vitamins, herbs and amino acids for a powerful boost and a crisp flavor that tastes good and mixes even better. …Lost is the #8 Energy Brand in the US. *Source AC Nielsens Total US CTMM 13 weeks ending 7/29/06.

Media Contacts

Hilary Craven/ Jennifer Mangiacapre                                            

SnL Communications                                          

hcraven@snlc.net/ jmangiacapre@snlc.net                                                  

tel:310.996.0239 ext.106   

mobile: 310.365.6438/910.262.3364             

fax:310.996.0249

The Olympics of Surfing continues to shine under the California Sun

Huntington Beach, Calif., October 19, 2006 –Day five of the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games started this morning with glassy waves in the chest to head high range for another summer-like day in Huntington Beach.  Spectators trickled down to the beach from Main Street, where each nation continued to wave their flags supporting their team members.

Competition was intense through all four heats of the Open Division Qualifying Round 4 as every wave counted toward the final standings for the top 16 competitors. In Heat 2, Luke Stedman of Sydney, Australia posted a combined score of 15.16 when he outsurfed heat leader Gavin Gilette of Hawaii on two strong rides that moved him from fourth to first place. Stedman competed against fellow teammate Julian Wilson who was knocked into Repercharge.

Francisco Bellorin of Venezuela had an interference called on him as he dropped in on Pat O’Connell in the fourth heat.  The heat panned out with Armando Daltro of Brazil leading the pack (14.00) followed by Pat O’Connell who anchored the USA team with his trademark long rides.

In Heat 3, three power countries Brazil, Australia and Costa Rica fought for first and second place finishes. In the 20 minute heat, a total of 28 waves were ridden by the four competitors with Brazilian surfer Alejo Muniz riding a maximum of 10 waves, as he took the lead over WCT fixture Tom Whitaker of Australia by posting a 8.5 and 7.73 for the days combined score of 16.23. In true World Surfing Games spirit, Diego Naranjo of Costa Rica served double duty as he slipped into Repercharge in the Open division, ran down the beach and paddled out at the south podium with 14 minutes left on the clock with his next heat. Although small, the south swell offered long lefts which benefited the Longboard division.

“It was my first time longboarding in the World Surfing Games. In the shortboard heats, it was tough being amongst the top 16 guys in the world but conditions were fun today,” Naranjo said of his second position finish in Heat 4. The Costa Rican later made it through Repercharge 2 with a second place score of 10.87.

2006 Longboard Panamerican Champion, Roberto Meza of Peru showcased his classic riding style gleaming victorious in Repercharge Heat 4 while Phil Rajzman of Brazil earned the days  divisional high score with 14.43 for his superlative cutback skills.

Roseanne Hodges of South Africa looked in sync with the ocean as she secured the highest combined score of a 15.83 in the Women’s Qualifying 3. She opened the heat with a score of a 6.5 when she charged down the line and snapped several times off the lip of the wave, earning her  several points in front of her competitors. Australia’s Jessie Miley-Dyer, Hawaii’s Bethany Hamilton and USA team member Courtney Conlogue all will advance.

“I was relaxed and wanted to have as much fun as possible,” said Hodges.  “Most of the waves are closing out today so it was important to pick the really good waves and ride them as far as you can.”

“It was difficult to find good waves today because of the wind. I was further out than the other competitors, found a couple good waves on the outside and was able to pull off a few barrel rolls on both waves,” said Valadao.  

Wesley Fischer was supported by his entire South African team from the beach as he pulled a stellar ARS

Rep 4 earning first with a 13.33.  The day continued with the surprising bump out of Japan’s Hikaru Enokido in Repercharge Round 3. 

Lisbeth Vindas strong showing in the past day of competition ended as she was out paddled by USA team member Cara Parsons who earned at 10.67 in Womens Bodyboarding.

 

Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php   

About International Surfing Association (ISA)

The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding and surfriding.  It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964, and the Junior World Championships since 1980.



ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries on six continents.  Its headquarters are located in San Diego, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected five times since.  The ISA's four Vice Presidents are from South Africa, Australia, Hawaii and the USA.



About Surfing America

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding.  

Surfing America, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization.  All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250.  For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes.  Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.



About Lost Energy drink

...Lost is the authentic energy drink brand for those of us who connect with the youthful action sports lifestyle. …Lost’s roots are in producing surfboards and action sports apparel sold only in core surf, skateboard and snowboard shops.  The crew at MONSTER makes …Lost with a select blend of vitamins, herbs and amino acids for a powerful boost and a crisp flavor that tastes good and mixes even better. …Lost is the #8 Energy Brand in the US. *Source AC Nielsens Total US CTMM 13 weeks ending 7/29/06.

Media Contacts

Hilary Craven/ Jennifer Mangiacapre                                            

SnL Communications                                          

hcraven@snlc.net/ jmangiacapre@snlc.net                                                  

tel:310.996.0239 ext.106   

mobile: 310.365.6438/910.262.3364             

fax:310.996.0249

Epic Conditions and Barreling Waves Set the Stage for Bodyboard and Men’s Repercharge Heats

Huntington Beach, Calif., October 18, 2006 –Day four of the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games was greeted with conditions that waveriders dream about with warm water, sunny skies  and head-high to overhead waves for the Open Repercharge Rounds 2 and 3, Bodyboard Men Repercharge 2 and Bodyboard Women divisions. Consistent barrels fired throughout the competition day resulting in a battle between all contenders to paddle for position, pull in deeper and execute combinations to win over their opponents.

Heat 6 of the Repercharge Round 2 in the Men’s division saw Manuel Selman, 2005 Latin Pro Tour Junior Champion leader of Chile and Angelo Losano of Mexico taking consecutive barrels until the last moments of the heat when Selman defeated his opponent with a combined score of 13.84 over a Losano’s second place 13.77.

 

Following this charged heat, Maximiliano Siri of Argentina capitalized on one of the best sets of the day, taking first with a 12.17 knocking out Sebastian Alarcon of Peru.

After catching only three waves, Jordy Smith of South Africa took first over Sebastian Santos from Ecuador, the 2002 Junior World Champ with a combined score of 14.17. Smith posted an 8.17 on his third wave when he disappeared into a left-handed barrel and broke through the whitewash to cheers from the beach.

“I misjudged time and lucky enough the waves are consistent today,” said Smith of his delay. “It was nothing serious. I just needed 2 good waves and I got a 6.6 on one and then a big barrel to earn that last 8.17,” said Smith.

In Heat 4, Round 3 of the Open Repercharge, Great Britain surfer Mark Harris led the pack with his first wave. Harris was then charged with an interference call when he dropped in on New Zealand competitor A.J. Matthews, knocking him to fourth position with a 5.83 and leaving Mathews with a 13.40.

Huntington Beach’s Pipeline-like conditions greatly benefited the bodyboard competitors today as the barrels became more and more hallow throughout the morning. The last few moments of Heat 4 of the Men’s Qualifying Round 2 showcased a near collision with Tahiti and Australia both speeding down the line narrowly missing each other. Australia and Mexico moved through to the next round.

In Heat 7 of Qualifying Round 2, it was a neck-to-neck match between all of the competitors, but it was Amaury Lavemhe of France who commanded the lead from Spain’s Alvaro Padron in the last few moments of the heat. Lavemhe earned the day’s highest combined score of 17.17 with a single wave score of a 9.23 after a huge air reverse spin that launched him several feet in the air into a five foot barrel. 

“Theses are the best conditions I have seen since I arrived. Prefer good waves.  I was happy to get a good set and two strong waves with a big ARS.  Some boarders get a lot of waves but don’t get a good score” Lavemhe said of his heat.

South African bodyboarder Wesley Fischer earned the highest single wave score of a 9.93 in Heat 1 of the Bodyboard Men’s Repercharge 2 when he dropped six feet into a wave and pulled into a long left-handed tube. As his country cheered from the shore, an interference was called when Fischer failed to pull out of Great Britain opponent Damien Prisk’s wave. Fischer still managed to win his heat with a combined score of 13.35.

“It was just a misunderstanding and difference in judging,” said Fischer of his interference call.

Other notable competitors included Japan’s Hayato Enokido who dominated his heat with his stylized riding and posting 11.73 for first.

Bourroux grabbed another wave for the first place position with a 13.84.  Moe Watanabe of the Japan team did not disappoint as well, leading Heat 2 with a 11.93

Conditions are expected to continue strong with Men’s Open Qualifying Round 4 and Women’s Qualifying Round 3, Repercharge 1 and 2 on the north podium starting at 8 a.m.  On the south podium

Longboarding Repercharge 1 and 2, Bodyboarding Men Qualifying Round 3, Repercharge 3 and 4, Women’s Bodyboarding Repercharge 1. Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast.

In ISA news, the newly elected ISA Executive Committee voted on Wednesday night  re-electing President Fernando Aguerre, as well Vice Presidents Alan Atkins from Australia, Robin de Kock from South Africa, Maile Aguerre from Hawaii and Mike Gerard from the USA.

Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php   

About International Surfing Association (ISA)

The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding and surfriding.  It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964, and the Junior World Championships since 1980.

ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries on six continents.  Its headquarters are located in San Diego, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected five times since.  The ISA's four Vice Presidents are from South Africa, Australia, Hawaii and the USA.



About Surfing America

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding.  

Surfing America, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization.  All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250.  For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes.  Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.



About Lost Energy drink

...Lost is the authentic energy drink brand for those of us who connect with the youthful action sports lifestyle. …Lost’s roots are in producing surfboards and action sports apparel sold only in core surf, skateboard and snowboard shops.  The crew at MONSTER makes …Lost with a select blend of vitamins, herbs and amino acids for a powerful boost and a crisp flavor that tastes good and mixes even better. …Lost is the #8 Energy Brand in the US. *Source AC Nielsens Total US CTMM 13 weeks ending 7/29/06.

Media Contacts

Hilary Craven/ Jennifer Mangiacapre                                            

SnL Communications                                          

hcraven@snlc.net/ jmangiacapre@snlc.net                                                  

tel:310.996.0239 ext.106   

mobile: 310.365.6438/910.262.3364             

fax:310.996.0249

DAY 3

Costa Rica Defeats United States in Two Heats of the Open Men’s Division

Fernando Aguerre re-elected as President of the ISA for another four year term

Huntington Beach, Calif., October 17, 2006 –Day three of the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games continued to narrow down the field with the Men’s Open Qualifying Round 3 and Repercharge Round 1 and Women’s Open Qualifying Round 1 and 2. Day three was greeted with sunny skies and bigger waves breaking in the 3-5 feet range allowing for optimal conditions for the best surfers in the world.

The Australian and Costa Rican team dominated the Qualifying Round 3 knocking out some of the USA team’s strongest contenders.

Heat 4 brought the first disappointment for the United States when Chris Ward, ranked amongst the top 44 surfers in the world, finished in last position with a 9.16 bumped out by Hawaii’s Gilbert Gillette leading with 14.83 followed by Costa Rica’s Gilbert Brown whose big bottom turns earned him a 13.30.

Ward of his fourth position finish said “The conditions were pretty sloppy. It’s the luck of the draw. But, they’re calling for combo swell later this week so it should get better when I surf again on Thursday.”

Costa Rica struck again when the impressive skills of Diego Naranjo defeating 2001 ASP World Champion CJ Hobgood of the United States, with a score of 14.00. Damien Hobgood and Pat O’Connell of the United States finished first in their heats of Round three.

In Heat 8, Portugal, Great Britain, Hawaii and Australia battled in a dramatic 20 minute heat until Sam Lamiroy of the Great Britain erupted with two back-to-back waves involving cutbacks and powerful snaps off the lip as his country erupted into cheers. Lamiroy’s performances earned him a combined score of 13.47.  Toward the end of the heat Australia’s Blake Thorton was given and interference call as he dropped in on Hawaii’s Alex Smith.  The final judgment of the heat left Miguel Ximenez of Portugal in third with a combined score of 10.34.

On the south podium, the level of women surfing impressed the judges as each country excelled in the overhead waves.  The highest combined wave score was earned by 2004 ISA Junior World Champion Jessie Miley-Dyer of Australia.  She immediately dominated the field when she charged down the line and snapped off the top of the wave numerous times in Heat 9, earning a score of 8.17 and finished with a two-wave score of 14.94. The highest combined score of the day was an 15.67 earned by Jacqueline Silva of Brazil in Heat 4 after she dropped in on a left-handed wave and snapped hard off the tops at very high speed to post high on her third wave.

One of the most inspirational performances was when Bethany Hamilton dropped into her first wave, charged down the line and nearly landed a 360 in Heat 10, a performance that put her in the lead.  She posted a combined score of 12.50 pushing her through to Qualifying Round 2 along with Costa Rican surfer Lisbeth Vindas who earned a score of 9.00.

“The conditions are constantly changing and it’s important to be in the right spot at the right time. Hopefully that’s enough to score well on a good wave,” Hamilton said of today’s challenging conditions.

In Heat 13, arguably the most intense heat of the competition, fourteen year old Courtney Conlogue of the United States led the pack when she effortlessly delivered scores of 7.77 and a 6.17 on her first two waves. However, it was the aggressive riding by Brazilian surfer Diana de Souza that gave her victory over Colongue in the last 30 seconds of the heat. De Souza earned a combined score of 14.93, only 0.99 points higher than Conlogue’s score of 13.94.

Competition was fierce in the Repercharge rounds, as surfers fought to avoid elimination. National pride was both seen and heard as each competitor’s respective country cheered for them from the shore and waved their flags in support. Manuel Selman of Chile earned a combined score of 9.13.

Bethany Hamilton of HAW

Photo credit: Covered Images

Despite being eliminated after a neck-to-neck struggle in Heat 5, Freddy Roux of Cote d’Ivoire proudly said, “It is a victory for me to be here. It was my country’s first time to be at an event like this and I would’ve liked to have gone further, people now know we surf in West Africa and in the future, I hope to be here with more people.” Mark Harris of the Great Britain placed in first position with a combined score of 14.34.

Also announced this morning was Fernando Aguerre’s unanimous re-election as ISA President for another four years.  “It was a big vote of confidence. I will continue working for a better surfing future. I’m humbled by the trust of all member Federations representing over 20 million surfers worldwide.” Both Surfing America and Costa Rica were upgraded to full members during last night meeting.

Conditions are expected to peak tomorrow with the Open Men’s Qualifying Repercharge 2 and Repercharge 3 on the north podium starting at 8 a.m.  On the south podium Bodyboarding Men’s and Womens Qualifying Round 2 and Bodyboarding Men’s Repercharge 1 and2 will continue. Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php   

France’s Joan Duru Posts Highest Heat Score in the First Qualifying Round of the Men’s Open Division



Huntington Beach, Calif., October 16, 2006 –Day two of the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games began today with the Men’s Open division where the top surfers of the world displayed tremendous talent amongst the 33 competing countries.  All the competitors set their best foot forward with a constant execution of explosive tricks despite the slow sections within the 2 to 4 foot waves.

The morning began with 32 heats competing on both podiums and kicked off with Julian Wilson of Australia dominating heat one with a combined 12.47 score. Three intense heats highlighted the range of talent within the first Qualifying Round with French surfer Joan Duru, the 2006 ASP World Junior Champion, wowing judges in heat 11 and posting a huge 9.5 score bringing his combined score to the days high with a 17.67.

“It is great to hear that I got the highest combined score of the day.  The conditions were not great but I love to surf amongst all of these WCT surfers,” said Duru.

Heat 12 was a solid battle with Chris Ward of the USA team grabbing some long rides and posting a combined score of 13.04, followed by Brazilian Jadson Andre whose impressive performance earned him a combined score of 11.34 moving both of them forward to the Qualifying Round two. Tatsuki Inoue of Japan and  Freddy Roux, the only surfer from Cote D’Ivoire was knocked into the repercharge, but not before executing some solid snaps.

The USA and Australian teams continued to fare well through out the day as they dominated all of their heats.  US surfing legend Pat O’Connell earning a 12.17 combined score leading heat 24, while Mexico’s Diego Cadena rounded out heat 32 with a remarkable 14.17.

In the Qualifying Round 2, heat three initiated the action with Damien Hobgood of the USA team and David Rutherfold of Mexico splitting a wave in the first ten minutes of the heat. It was a confident Alan Stokes of Great Britain who executed a chest high wave coming in second in the heat with a combined score of 9.80 knocking Eusebio Rodriguez of Ecuador into the Repercharge.

Heat 8 brought some more favorable waves with Hawaii’s Gavin Gillette of Kauai earning the days second high score 16.0, Australian Luke Stedman posting 14.56 followed by Alexandre Ferreira of Portugal and Maximiliano Siri entering the Repercharge.

Other high scores included heat 14 saw Miguel Ximenez of Portugal, a goofy foot rider take first with a solid 11.40 combined score followed by Armando Daltro of Brazil scoring a 10.90.  About his heat Ximenez said,”the beach is awesome and the waves remind me of my home town of Lisbon.  I am very excited about the upcoming heats.

Conditions are expected to improve tomorrow with the Open Men’s Qualifying Round 3 and Repercharge 2.  Also the Open Womens Qualifying Round 1 and Qualifying Round 2 begins tomorrow. Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php  

33 Nations Represented in First Day of Competition for the Open Longboard and Bodyboard Divisions



Huntington Beach, Calif., October 15, 2006 – Competition began today for the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games with the Open Longboard and Bodyboard divisions. Spirits were high amongst the 33 competing teams, with the waves breaking from 2-4 feet making the wave selection crucial for the World’s finest as they battled it out on behalf of their respective countries.



“We are very impressed with the level of competition amongst the all the teams,” said International Surfing Association Contest Director Marcos Bukao. “We expect bigger and better waves over the next couple of days and this will determine the outcome of who carries through to the next heats.”



Over the first two qualifying rounds, the Open Longboard division called for a combination of traditional techniques and modern day tricks. Registered with the highest combined two-wave score of 14.60, Matthew Moir of South Africa led the pack earning the highest score of the competition with an 8.5 with his speed, solid noseriding and massive floaters. His performance was then followed by a surprise second place score by the United Kingdom’s Benjamin Skinner with an impressive combined 14.50. Three-time World Champion Colin McPhillips of the United States finished with the third highest combined score of 14.0.



Other countries that delivered high-calibered performances were Bruno Grandela of Portugal and Martin Perez of Argentina. Complete results are available at www.isasurf.org.



At Podium 2 on the south side of the beach, the Bodyboard Men and Women divisions showcased the highest level of waveriding in the world. The waves picked up in the afternoon with some head high sets, setting the stage for solid scores from Portugal, Australia, and Venezuela. Portugal put up the days highest combined score with a remarkable 14.50, followed by Andrew Lester of Australia with a 14.17 and Venezuela in third with a 13.0 combined score. Also Japan did not disappoint with their trademark big aerials and solid landings.



”I took off on a nice wave and got three barrel rolls back to back and then the fourth came through,” said Manuel Centerio of Portugal. “I love the color and the spirit of the WSG contest environment because it is about a group energy.”



In the Women’s Bodyboarding competition Neymara Carvalho of Brazil posted the days combined high with a 14.17, followed by Rita Pires of Portugal with a 12.33 and defending Champion Kira Llewellyn in third with 11.27.



ISA President Fernando Aguerre said, “There is nothing like the World Surfing Games, the only surfing event in the world with surfers from all 5 continents. With the presence of the national flags, uniforms and all the languages and the teams mixed up and mingling around, this is it.”



The competition continues tomorrow with the Open Men’s Division starting at 8:00 a.m. Check out the action with live scoring and a live webcast available daily at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa. Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php

The cameras will provide thrilling, up-close footage of this monumental event at www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa

WHAT: Much like the Olympics, the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games offer fans worldwide the chance to check out the conditions from the famed Huntington Beach Pier, root for each country, and experience all the international spirit from the comfort of home.  Produced by the International Surfing Association (ISA) and Surfing America, the best surfers from around the world compete as members of their National Surfing Teams.

WHERE: Live scoring and live streaming of all the action is available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day for the duration of the nine day competition.  Visit www.isasurf.org or www.surfingamerica.org/isa  now to download the high-quality stream.  Additionally, photos are available for viewing and free downloading at http://www.isasurf.org/gallery/main.php.

WHO: Top surfers from more than 33 nations, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Great Britain, Guatemala, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, Tahiti, Peru, Hawaii, Argentina, Ecuador, Colombia, Sweden, Italy, Cote D’Ivoire, Panama, Costa Rica, Japan, Portugal, Switzerland, Spain, Venezuela, Ireland, Canada, South Africa and USA.

COLORFUL "PARADE OF NATIONS" AND "SANDS OF THE WORLD" CEREMONIES TO KICK OFF THE 2006 LOST ENERGY DRINK ISA WORLD SURFING GAMES ON OCTOBER 14, 2006

San Diego, California, 9 October 2006:

WHAT: Much like the Olympics, the Opening Ceremonies for the 2006 Lost Energy Drink ISA World Surfing Games will feature the "Parade of Nations" and "Sands of the World" ceremony.  Teams will march in alphabetical order by country down the Huntington Beach Pier waving their nation's flag and wearing their national colors.  Teams will then assemble for the emblematic "Sands of the World" ceremony.  In this ceremony, each team will pour sand brought from their respective country into a specially crafted acrylic box, symbolizing the ISA hopes for a peaceful world. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) trophy will also be present at the ceremony.

WHO: Top surfers from more than 35 nations, including Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Germany, Guatemala, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Portugal, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Ecuador, Tahiti, United Kingdom, Aruba, Sweden, Panama, Hawaii, Cote d'Ivoire, Venezuela, Colombia, and the United States.

WHY: The Opening Ceremonies significance is paramount to the ISA's hopes for a peaceful world and is symbolic of the spirit of community throughout the sport of surfing worldwide.

WHEN: October 14, 2006 2p.m-4p.m

WHERE: Huntington Beach Pier

Huntington Beach, Calif.

USA

Media Contact

Hilary Craven/Jennifer Mangiacapre

SnL Communications

310.996.0239

hcraven@snlc.net/jmangiacapre@snlc.net

www.snlc.net

2006 LOST ENERGY DRINK ISA WORLD SURFING GAMES TO COMMENCE ON SATURDAY (10/14) WITH OPENING CEREMONIES AT HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER; COMPETITION BEGINS ON SUNDAY

San Diego, California, 6 October 2006:

WHAT:                  The 2006 ISA World Surfing Games, produced by Surfing America will bring the best surfers from around the globe to Huntington Beach to compete as members of their National Surfing Teams.  The ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries in six continents.  The event is sanctioned by the International Surfing Association (ISA) – the world governing body for the sport of surfing, recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).  Surfing America is the ISA-recognized NGB for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The event takes place over the course of nine days with surfing competition and event festivities, including the notable and colorful Parade of Nations.

WHO:                     Top surfers from more than 35 nations, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, France, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, South Africa, Tahiti, Peru, Hawaii, Argentina, Ecuador, Colombia, Sweden, Italy, Cote D’Ivoire, Panama, Costa Rica, Japan, Portugal, Switzerland, Spain, Venezuela, Ireland, Canada, South Africa and USA will represent their countries as they compete for individual and team medals in men’s and women open, longboard, and bodyboarding.

WHEN:                  Media Check- In (Friday, October 13, 2006)

2p.m. - 5p.m - Check- in at media tent on the beach 

• ·         The media tent is located next to the VIP tent and is marked on attached site map.  


• ·         Check-in is available each day beginning at 8 a.m.


• ·         Media can park in the NORTH parking lot until it is filled to capacity.

Opening Ceremonies – Parade of Nations and Sands of the World ceremony

Saturday, October 14 2 p.m. - 4p.m. Huntington Beach Pier.

Competition - Sunday, October 15 – Sunday, October 22, 2006.

*Schedule subject to change

Sunday, October 15 –

8 a.m. - Body Board Men, Body Board Women

10: 00 a.m. - Long board

Monday, October 16 –

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. - OPEN Division  

Tuesday, October 17 -

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. - OPEN Division

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Womens

Wednesday, October 18 –

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. – All Divisions

Thursday, October 19 –

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. – All Divisions

Friday, October 20 –

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. – All Divisions

Saturday, October 21 –

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Semi Finals

Sunday, October 22 –

9 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Finals followed by Awards Ceremony.

*Immediately following the awards ceremony, media will have the opportunity to have a Q&A session with the athletes and event spokespeople.

WHERE:                 Huntington Beach Pier, Huntington Beach, California, USA

WHY:                      The Games showcase the best surfers from around the world competing on behalf of their respective countries.  This year’s Team

Champion will be awarded the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President’s Trophy and Basil Lomberg Perpetual Trophy for exemplary surfing.

HOW:                     All of the action will be streaming live at http://surfingamerica.org/isa and www.isasurf.org. Additionally Fuel TV will be broadcasting all the action in February please visit www.fuel.tv for air times. Photos will be available for free downloading at www.surfingamerica.org/isa and www.isasurf.org.

About International Surfing Association (ISA)

The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding and surfriding.  It was originally founded as the International Surfing Federation in 1964 and has been running world championships since 1964, and the Junior World Championships since 1980.

ISA membership includes the surfing National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of over 50 countries on six continents.  Its headquarters are located in San Diego, California. It is presided by Fernando Aguerre, first elected in 1994 in Rio, and re-elected five times since.  The ISA's four Vice Presidents are from South Africa, Australia, Hawaii and the USA.

About Surfing America

Surfing America is the ISA-recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for surfing in the United States and is responsible for holding the official USA Championships and for selecting and fielding the official USA Surf Team.  The International Surfing Association (ISA) is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the World Governing Authority for surfing, bodyboarding, and surfriding.                                        

Surfing America, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c) 3 charitable organization.  All donations made to Surfing America are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Donation checks should be made payable to: Surfing America, 33157 Camino Capistrano, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. End of year tax receipts are sent to every individual donor of more than $250.  For donations under $250, a cancelled check or credit card statement is sufficient evidence for IRS purposes.  Surfing America will send a tax receipt to any donor who requests one.

About Lost Energy drink

...Lost is the authentic energy drink brand for those of us who connect with the youthful action sports lifestyle. …Lost’s roots are in producing surfboards and action sports apparel sold only in core surf, skateboard and snowboard shops.  The crew at MONSTER makes …Lost with a select blend of vitamins, herbs and amino acids for a powerful boost and a crisp flavor that tastes good and mixes even better. …Lost is the #8 Energy Brand in the US.*Source AC Nielsens Total US CTMM 13 weeks ending 7/29/06

About FUEL TV

The only 24/7 action sports cable and satellite network in the U.S. FUEL TV’s programming covers the lifestyle and culture of skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX, freestyle motocross, and wakeboarding. Through its original and commissioned series and specials, short-form content, films, and prestigious event coverage, the channel features action sports athletes — in motion and in exclusive interviews — emerging musicians, celebrities, and breaking news. Signature original shows include The Daily Habit, The Weekly Update with Boost Mobile, and Firsthand. A unit of Fox Cable Networks, FUEL TV was launched July 1, 2003 and is seen in 22 million U.S. homes. FUEL TV is viewed in 54 countries including the UK (FX UK); Australia (FUEL TV Aus), and Latin America and Brazil (FX Latin America). To subscribe to FUEL TV call 877-4-FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

Media Contacts

Hilary Craven/ Jennifer Mangiacapre                                            

SnL Communications                                          

hcraven@snlc.net/ jmangiacapre@snlc.net                                                  

tel:310.996.0239 ext.106   

mobile: 310.365.6438/910.262.3364             

fax:310.996.0249