Sally Fitzgibbons gathering intel on danger surfers for world surf title tilt
SALLY Fitzgibbons is preparing to face a slew of “danger surfers” during her quest for a world surfing crown. And there’s one young star she’s particularly wary of.
Women's sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Women's sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Tyler Wright ready to rock after injury
- Top surfer switches allegiance
- How Australia helped England become a danger
SALLY Fitzgibbons is on an intelligence gathering mission as she prepares to face a slew of “danger surfers” during her 11th quest for a world surfing crown.
Fitzgibbons is checking out both familiar and new faces at the Surfest women’s event at Newcastle this week as she puts the finishing touches on her early season preparations ahead of the Roxy Pro World Tour opener at Snapper Rocks in March.
NEW TRICKS: What Sally Fitz has up her sleeve
SURF INVASION: US armada heading down under
The annual event at Newcastle boasts a number of world tour surfers including world champion Tyler Wright.
But of particular interest to Fitzgibbons is the likes of American teen Caroline Marks.
At 15, she’s the youngest female ever to make the women’s world tour, and the face of the future, so Fitzgibbons is keen to have a good look at the youngster before facing her in world tour events.
“It’s a great chance to get some valuable info on your competitors on the world tour,’’ Fitzgibbons said as the first day of competition was blown out by a wild southerly.
“It’s a little headstart on everyone in the water.
TICKLED PINK: How his mum inspires surfer Julian Wilson
SURF LIFESAVING: Happy hunting ground for ironwoman
“And I always want more info on the young surfers coming up. They can be very dangerous.’’
The Surfest event will be the only tournament Fitzgibbons or Wright contest as they prepare at the start of the season.
World No. 2 Stephanie Gilmore has opted to go without a single lead-up event, instead training at her home break at Snapper Rocks.
This means the world No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 will all be missing from next week’s Sydney Pro at Manly.
Just one heat was surfed at Newcastle on Tuesday. Former world No. 1 Matt Wilkinson heads the list of top surfers contesting the men’s event at Newcastle.