2006 Boost Mobile Pro of Surf Presented by Hurley

Bede, don't count 'em out.

The result has launched Durbidge into the highly touted top 10 on the Foster’s ASP Men’s World Tour, a position that he hopes to maintain.

"It was a really crucial comp for me on many fronts,” said Durbidge “It’s actually changed my thinking. My goals for this year have changed. I want to be top-10 now!"

Durbidge also acknowledged Lovett’s situation as being motivation for him to win today.

"I wouldn’t even be in this event if it wasn’t for Richie [Lovett],” said Durbidge. “And I feel for him so much. It’s a freak thing that happened to him and I had a second chance at making this year’s tour because of him and he’s the nicest guy. I gave him a big hug when I came in and he congratulated me and I said ’thanks so much.’ He was a previous winner here too and that’s what all the boys were saying before I paddled out, ‘well Rich could do it, you can do it.’"

Earlier in the season Slater was singing Durbidge’s praises stating that he was sometimes quite intimidated by his surfing.

“You can’t count Bede [Durbidge] out,” said Slater today. “He’s a tough competitor and he’s only a two year pro on the tour but he’s like a seasoned vet because he just doesn’t show his emotions when he’s surfing. You don’t hear him get frustrated or too excited. He’s very calm and gets the job done."