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Surfers at Snapper battle photo fans at Quiksilver and Roxy Pros

THE humble autograph has become the latest victim in the technology revolution at Snapper Rocks this week.

THE humble autograph has become the latest victim in the technology revolution.

No longer do professional surfers get bombarded with permanent markers and autograph books but instead have to pose for a “selfie” with their fans.

During yesterday’s Roxy Pro event at Snapper Rocks, surfers were often stopped more than 10 times to get selfies with their fans as they made their way from the beach to the surfers’ tent.

Sisters Tiana and Nikki Clark spent their day snapping selfies with their favourite wave riders, including Currumbin-based surfer and world No. 2 Tyler Wright.

“We like selfies better than autographs because a photo lasts longer,” Nikki, 18, said.

“We can put it up on our Instagram and Facebook accounts and show all our friends straight away.

“Last year we sat on the beach for four hours to get selfies with the surfers.

“My favourite has been with Julian Wilson while Tiana was excited to meet Tyler Wright and Sally Fitzgibbons.”

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While the subject of selfies can be polarising among professional surfers, Wright believes it has become part of life in the public eye.

The 22-year-old said she struggled with the idea early in her career but is becoming used to the trend.

One of the most popular selfie subjects at this year’s Roxy Pro was Sally Fitzgibbons. Despite losing her knockout heat against Brazil’s Silvana Lima, the 24-year-old still took the time to get selfies with fans.

“I love the interaction (and) I think it encourages more people to come down and watch us surf.”

In yesterday’s other heats, Tweed Coast surfer Stephanie Gilmore progressed to the quarter-finals. Organisers of the Quiksilver and Roxy Pro said they expect both comps to run tomorrow.

Evans Head sisters Tiana, 15, and Nikki Clark pose for a selfie with Tyler Wright. Action at the Roxy Pro at Snapper Rocks. Pics Tim Marsden
Evans Head sisters Tiana, 15, and Nikki Clark pose for a selfie with Tyler Wright. Action at the Roxy Pro at Snapper Rocks. Pics Tim Marsden

Original URL: https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/sport/surf-sports/surfers-at-snapper-battle-photo-fans-at-quiksilver-and-roxy-pros/news-story/51f400cfc207ad03a05e5b5af0437579