06.29.01
Press Release

Event Postponed Again, Set To Commence Tomorrow

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - The Rio Surf International was again postponed this morning, but is now set to commence tomorrow with the opening round of competition. Much speculation has arisen these past few days as to the likelihood of the event ever starting, but those rumours have now been laid to rest.

Event organizers did get caught in a political dispute regarding the releasing of US$250,000 in event funds. ASP International and the men's top 45 surfers were also inadvertently stuck in the crossfire and the tournament went on hold until the dispute was settled. As it happened, stormy conditions persisted during the past two days of negotiations and only cleared today, as news of the resolution spread.

ASP President Wayne 'Rabbit' Bartholomew attended a meeting with the Secretary of Sport for the State of Rio last night, whereby a financial pledge was made as guarantee to the Rio Surf International.

"We had two days of stormy surf where the contest would not have been run, so it gave me valuable breathing space to find an amicable resolution to this conflict," explained Bartholomew. "The sole objective from ASP's perspective was to have the WCT event go ahead, and I am delighted to announce that the State Government has given me a guarantee that all the money will be forthcoming, so the contest can begin tomorrow. Funds will be available today, but ASP was not prepared to start the event until the money was in the bank and accounted for, under the circumstances. In essence, we have only missed one decent day of surf and still have six days of the waiting period remaining, so it's business as usual."

With competition postponed and marginally improved conditions on offer, a host of the world's best surfers took to the waves of Barra da Tijuca in anticipation of tomorrow's start. Among the lineup were current rating's leader Cory Lopez (USA), defending Rio Surf International champion Kalani Robb (Haw), as well as wildcard entrant and three-time world champion Tom Curren (USA).

Each morning a 7am decision will be made as to the event's schedule and location.

For the latest updates log onto www.aspworldtour.com

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