This year's Billabong Pro at Teahupoo was run in the worst conditions yet seen in the contest's history. The previous few years have also been plagued with sub-standard swells and numerous lay days. In 2007, for only the second time in the ASP's history, the waiting period for the event was extended due to the lack of contestable surf. In 2008 the swell didn't get over 6'. And this year, Billabong shuffled around the dates to try and score good waves, but again they've fallen short.

Billabong invest a substantial amount of money in the contest and to have it run in mild 4'-5' surf is a major disappointment. As event sponsor Billabong want to capitalise on the spectacular images that are beamed out of Tahiti when Teahupoo is breaking at size. 

A quick glance of the current forecast charts reveals two strong systems lining up off New Zealand's East Coast, smack bang in Teahupoo's prime swell window. This, only a few of weeks after the contest sat through two weeks of small conditions. Perhaps Billabong should move the contest deeper into the swell season to increase the chance of large surf? I think it's something Billabong should at least consider after yet another year fell short of expectations. //CRAIG BROKENSHA