Only five heats of the third round were completed before the competition was postponed due to inconsistent conditions. Patacchia was the only Hawai'i surfer to see action yesterday.

Patacchia defeated California's Chris Ward, 11.5-10.17.

Patacchia is scheduled to face three-time former world champion Andy Irons of Kaua'i in the fourth round.

"I think it is going to be fun, we haven't had a man-on-man heat since I've been on tour," Patacchia said. "I think it will be a lot of fun, a lot of laughs, a lot of serious paddle battles ... and I am looking forward to it. It is not everyday you get to surf against a world champion."

In another upcoming fourth-round heat, Pancho Sullivan of Sunset Beach is scheduled to face Australia's Mick Fanning, who is currently the world's No. 1-ranked surfer.