CHAMPION EFFORT: World champion Joel Parkinson puts it on edge before being bundled out of the Hurley Pro in California.
Sport
Fanning surges to points lead as Slater crashes out
SURFING: Aussie Mick Fanning moved to the top of the ASP Tour rankings yesterday after the shock elimination of 11-time world champion Kelly Slater in round three of the Hurley Pro at Trestles in California.
Slater was ousted by countryman Pat Gudauskas who was competing as an alternate.
"I'm happy for Pat," Slater said. "He's been on the losing end of several close heats and it's about time something went his way.
"But this is three bad results for me this year and I don't have much room to move."
Not long after Slater's loss, Fanning beat Brazilian Alejo Muniz to advance to the fourth round.
Aussie world champion Joel Parkinson was also knocked out in round three, going down to compatriot Adam Melling.
