Isle File
Kaua'i surfer qualifies for event in Tahiti

Advertiser Staff

Kaua'i's Bruce Irons earned a spot in the Billabong Pro Teahupoo yesterday by winning the Hinano Trials contest in 3- to 4-foot waves at Teahupoo, Tahiti.

Irons was one of 48 non-world tour surfers competing in the trials. The top three performers from the trials earned spots in the main contest, which is part of surfing's World Championship Tour.

Tahitian surfers Hira Terinatoofa and Nicolas Leethan earned the other two spots. Tamayo Perry of Hau'ula missed qualifying by one placing.

Irons will join five other Hawai'i surfers in the main event, including his older brother, Andy. The other Hawai'i competitors are Sunny Garcia, Kalani Robb, Shane Dorian and Shawn Sutton.

The main contest, which will also feature a women's division, is scheduled to begin today.