Mark Rosenberg

Bruised and bloodied but still paddling back out, on ya Lozza.

As the Teahupo’o trials were drawing to a close and the Tahitians stood tall, Laurie Towner was at the hospital having his face sewn up. “Ah mate, it’s only seven stitches,” he laughs, “no biggie. I could go surfing if I really wanted to, but I’m enjoying relaxing. It’s great to have a bit of R & R.”

Since the trials finished Laurie has been on cruise control, living in the lap of luxury on Billabong Island, chilling out heading off to Thredbo next week to get his shred on. “It’s starting to get busy and everyone’s arriving,” says Laurie of Papeete’s continual touchdowns. “There’s a buzz building, now we just need the waves to co-operate.”


Laurie charging his way to an equal fifth place finish in the VZ trials.

With the tour being cut from 45 surfers to 32 after Chopes, surfers’ livelihoods are on the line. For many, avoiding relegation to the minor leagues will come down to their willingness to throw themselves over the ledge. It’s death or glory, and desperate souls will do anything to keep their dreams alive. Who does Laurie think will surprise? “Ha,” he laughs, “the Tahitian boys have been ruling the place as always. They’re going to be hard to beat but I’m sure the usual crew will step up as they always do.” And who’s going to win? “Geez, I dunno. I couldn’t tell you. Maybe a Tahitian, but probably Kelly.”


The day before the trials Loz falls into the pit. Pic Jones/Stryker

We wanna know who you think will win the Billabong Pro Tahiti. In the comment section below give us your pick, and tell us what you think they’ll score in the final. Closest to the pin wins a Bong pack with all the trimmings.

billabongpro.com