We now turn our attention to the next CT event on the 2016 World Surf League. This time we head to Southern California for the Hurley Pro on the shores of Lower Trestles, a few miles from the town San Clemente.
The beach of Trestles was formerly controlled by the U.S marines, who were based in camp Pendleton. In the past surfers found it difficult to ride Trestles and some of the other breaks close by due to the restrictions until 1971 when they granted public access. Now the location is one of the best legs on the world surfing league and has been since 1977.
The break works well on a south/southwest swell and moderate east/north-east wind.
The bottom floor of Trestles is made up of cobblestones, which basically helps keep the break clean and consistent, that’s why when you see images of Trestles it always looks like a dream wave. The wave doesn’t have the power of a teahupo’o or cloud break, but it gives the surfers plenty to play with. Trestles breaks in both directions, so it helps with being either natural footed or goofy and if breaking on the cobblestones it can be quite steep, so expect some surprise barrels and aerials.
After another early exit at Teahupo’o, Matt Wilkenson now finds himself out of the number one position, with John John Florence leading the competition with two runners up in the previous two events. John John can not put a foot wrong at the moment and will be hard to beat in California. Mick Fanning is also back in the water after resting through Tahiti, which will make things interesting with Kelly Slater finding winning waves and also Medina still looking strong in every contest. This is the kind of wave Fanning tears up, with his crazy ability to make nothing into something.
Couple of surfers flying under the radar at the moment are Adrian Buchan who is having a stellar season and now sits forth in the standings. He has been really consistent throughout this season, even though he hasn’t had a outright win this season, we have seen that he is capable of making it into the finals. Another young gun coming through the ranks is Kolohe Andino. From what we have seen his future is looking bright, his best result this year was making the final of the first event in Australia, when Wilko just got over the top. He will now try his luck at his home break at Lower Trestles.
With only four events left in the season will we see John John continue his form and take out his first world title? Or will we see a late charge from someone further down the rankings? Make sure you turn your attention to Lower Trestles which starts next week on September 7th and runs through to the 18th.
- Tip: Mick Fanning to win - $9 at Sportsbet
Other notable Hurley Pro Trestles picks
- Tip: John John Florence $9 at CrownBet
- Tip: Jordy Smith $15 at Sportsbet
Here is the full Hurley Pro Trestles market at CrownBet:
