Wai'anae's Sunny Garcia posted the highest score in the first round of the Drug Aware Pro Margaret River in Western Australia, yesterday, to advance in the ASP World Qualifying Series event.

Garcia, a former world champion, scored a 9.17 out of 10 in the 6 1/2-foot surf at Surfer's Point.

"It was challenging, but really fun out there," Garcia said.

With an aim of requalifying for the ASP World Tour in 2009, the 38-year-old is focused on surfing on the main stage again.

"My main aim for this year is to definitely requalify," Garcia said. "At the start of the year I didn't realize how tough it would be, but the level of surfing that is being produced from all the younger kids is awesome. It is definitely going to be harder than I had anticipated."

SWIMMING

PHELPS STEALS SHOW WITH SECOND-PLACE FINISH

Michael Phelps finished second and still stole the spotlight.

The eight-time medalist at the Athens Olympics was second in the 100-meter freestyle — an individual event he seldom swims — yet his time of 48.41 seconds yesterday at the Columbus (Ohio) Grand Prix was the third-fastest ever by an American.

"I was out in exactly what I wanted to be out in," said Phelps, winner of six golds and two bronze medals at the 2004 Games, who made the turn in 23.34 seconds. "I wanted to be out in 23.3 and try and come back but I guess I ran out of pool."

Cesar Cielo, who will swim for Brazil in the Olympics this August in Beijing, won in 48.34.

The only Americans to go faster than Phelps in the 100 free are Jason Lezak (48.17) and Anthony Ervin (48.33). Phelps' previous best was 48.42 at the Pan Pacifics in 2006.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

REPORT: RICE TO HIRE BRAUN TO COACH TEAM

Rice plans a news conference today to address their search for a new head coach to replace Willis Wilson, who was fired last month.

Houston media reports yesterday said former Cal coach Ben Braun would be named Wilson's successor.

Rice spokesman Chuck Pool confirmed to the AP that a news conference would be conducted to address the opening. He declined to comment when asked if Braun would be hired, saying he could not discuss names.