Mick Fanning hoping for farewell victory at Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach

RETIRING surfing champion Mick Fanning has long known that he would end his glittering career on the Surf Coast

Mick Fanning and Reigning World Champion John John Florence at Bells Beach. Picture: Mike Dugdale

RETIRING surfing champion Mick Fanning has long known that he would end his glittering career on the Surf Coast.

“Obviously home (Gold Coast) is a great event but I just feel it’s too hectic for me, getting pulled every which way,” he said. “It’s great to come down here. I feel calmer down here.”

The three-time world champion first came to Bells in 1998, before stamping himself as a rising star with a wildcard win as a 19-year-old in the 2001 Rip Curl Pro.

He will be shooting for his fifth Bells title this Easter, in what will be his final competitive surf.

“It’s my last event, but definitely not my last time here at Bells, I’ll be surfing here for a long time to come.”

TODAY’S OTHER HEADLINES

FORMER MP’S SON KILLED IN CRASH

HAGUE MURDER INTERVIEW CONTRADICTS TESTIMONY

COUNCIL TO FIGHT GOAT FARM

ELECTRIC DREAMS FOR GEELONG RAIL LINE

Originally published as Mick Fanning hoping for farewell victory at Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach