After two full day’s of competition which saw the world’s best surfers whittled down to the remaining 32, the Hang Loose Santa Catarina Pro has called a lay day this morning with offshore winds but a projected drop in swell on offer at Praia Vila today.

Event No. 4 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Hang Loose Santa Catarina Pro plays a crucial role in both the ASP World Title race and the requalification campaigns of the world’s best surfers for the world’s most elite tour.

“The surf has dropped a bit today and we have a very stiff offshore wind this morning making things difficult,” Perry Hatchett, ASP Head Judge, said. “The surfers opted not to compete today and since we’ve completed half the competition in the opening two days of the waiting period, we feel that we have time to wait for more optimal conditions.”

Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow morning at 7:30am to assess conditions for a possible Round 3 8am start.

When Hang Loose Santa Catarina Pro competition recommences, first up will be defending event champ Bede Durbidge (AUS), 26, up against ASP Dream Tour rookie Michel Bourez (PYF), 23.