Contest organisers never like to wait when the waiting period starts. First day action establishes a momentum for all the people who make the contest happen, both contestants and organisers alike. Give 'em a half decent day and they're off...

Such was the case today when a four foot swell - not great but wholly contestable - broke on the Chopes reef and organisers sounded the horn. Conditions deteriorated through the day but organisers pressed on regardless.

There were few surprises in the mix, save Taj being booted in his Round 2 heat. Other than that most of the top seeds won their Round 1 heat skipping to Round 3. Mick Fanning was a conspicuous opening round loser but redeemed himself with a Round 2 win.

For a full report check the ASP press release.