Sally Fitzgibbons surfing for survival at US Open as Stephanie Gilmore, Tyler Wright race into quarter-finals

STEPHANIE Gilmore has downed reigning world champion Carissa Moore but for the second time in two days Sally Fitzgibbons is surfing for survival.

Sally Fitzgibbons will surf for survival in round four of the US Open of surfing.

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STEPHANIE Gilmore has downed reigning world champion Carissa Moore but for the second time in two days Sally Fitzgibbons is surfing for survival in a world league event.

Australia’s mixed results came in small, tricky surf at the US Open of surfing at Trestles early Wednesday.

Joining Gilmore in booking an early spot in the quarter-finals is Tyler Wright, who has yet to drop a heat at the event.

Wright beat American Malia Manuel and Aussie rookie Keely Andrew for her quarter-final spot.

Gilmore took down three-time world champion Moore and fellow American Coco Ho in her outing.

Sally Fitzgibbons all smiles after she secured a spot in the Bells Beach final earlier this year.

“Conditions are pretty difficult out there today so it’s just about catching waves and doing the best with what you’ve got,” said six-time world champion Gilmore.

“I haven’t really had much luck with three-man heats this year so it felt really good to get through that heat, especially against Carissa (Moore) and Coco (Ho).

“My last heat prior to this was against two Hawaiians as well and they are tough competitors. I am happy to make it through.”

Fitzgibbons was beaten by American Lakey Peterson and will now face Sage Erickson in the elimination fourth round when competition resumes.