Photo: ASP/Kristin
Huntington Beach, Ca, 5/16/12 – This morning at Barra Da Tijuca, in Rio de Janiero,Brazil, John John Florence made history by winning the 2012 Billabong Pro Rio, defeating Joel Parkinson in the final. In 3-5 foot punchy beachbreak surf, John John surfed to his strengths locking in big scores for his amazing display of aerials and tube riding. The win is John John’s third in 2012, but his first ever at the ASP elite level, and moves him to #5 overall in the ASP World Title race.
“We have been working with John John since he was real little,” said Vince Longo, President and Founder of Futures Fins. “He’s been with his shaper John Pyzel all along too, and between us we’ve been able to dial in his needs. Even through his growth over the last couple years, he’s always been comfortable with what he’s riding, and for him to win now at this level is just a testament to that. His rise to superstardom has been so fun to watch, and we couldn’t be happier for him.”
The conditions throughout the event suited John John perfectly. With a decent size swell in the water and clean conditions; barrels were the best option for high scores. On the final day, John’s competitive prowess really shined, as he was continually able to lock in his two best rides early in the heat, putting all the pressure back on his opponents to match him.
John John was riding a custom fiberglass prototype of his new signature fin, to be released in 2013.
For more photos, video and all the highlights log on to http://wctbrasil.com/
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