Words and photos: Peter ‘Joli’ Wilson
This was Kelly’s first wave of the 2013 Volcom Pro final. His opponent Mick Fanning had already scored a 9.20, sending the Namotu staff in the long boats into frenzy. Not willing to let Mick put one on him and with Tavarua pride on the line, Kelly took off on the next set wave, an intimidating blue beast, and stalled for the barrel. As it pitched over him he raised his arms wide, standing tall with no speed, letting the evil lip virtually crash over him. It didn’t bother the scorers or affect the heat, but it set a defiant tone – Kelly going on to score a 10 and a 9.8 to nail the final.
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