For a man who’s made an art form out of keeping everyone guessing, committing to an event that is still 4 months out is pretty… un-Slateresque. None the less, amidst a hectic promotion schedule for his new book ‘For the Love’, Kelly Slater has made it be known that he will be throwing his name into the hat for the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast in March of next year.

This is quite a departure from his 2008 ‘maybe, maybe not’ approach for each event. However with an unprecedented 10th world championship acting as the carrot in front of his nose, the decision to show up at Snapper was likely not a difficult one. “The Quiksilver Pro and the Gold Coast are two things very special to Kelly,” said event spokesman Johnathan Jenkins. “He has always claimed the waves of the Gold Coast are among his favourites in the world.”

Kelly’s 2008 victory at Snapper Rocks, one which saw him out defending champ Mick Fanning in front of thousands of screaming Gold Coasters, served as a catalyst for Slater’s unreal run to his 9th world championship. Another win at Snapper in March would be a massive way to start his run to #10.

Knowing this, commiting to Snapper at this point makes complete sense for Kelly Slater. “His non-committal reputation is pretty legendary among the surfing community,” said Jenkins. “But his competitiveness always seems to get the better of him. If I was a betting man I would be putting my money on him going for 10 titles.”

I think I speak for most when I say we all look forward to witnessing the magical run for 10.

Tags: Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning, Quiksilver

Posted by Shaun on Sunday, November 23rd, 2008 in Surfing.

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