There has been a bit of drama leading to the J-Bay event after one of the longest break in ASP World Tour history:
Parko getting a deep foot cut surfing perfect Snapper with good mate AI that will force the title contender to miss the south african Tour stop, according to his blog he was as gutted to miss J-Bay event than having to paddle in in such perfect conditions.

Dingo getting his face smashed in a pub at home but the australian said he will compete anyway as we are getting closer from the top 32 cut off of the season and that he needs a strong result there.

And last but not least, Kai Otton withdrawing due to a recurring back injury and opening the Tour doors to frenchman Joan Duru ! Joan will face in heat 1: Roy Powers & Jordy Smith.

Even if Joan has never been to J-Bay, Volcom coach Didier Piter reckons it is the perfect opportunity for the Ondres surfer with his powerful surfing, backside variations and enthusiasm for surfing the legendary righthander.