Fanning hoping history repeats

REIGNING ASP world champion Mick Fanning cruised through the opening round of the Drug Aware Pro at Margaret River yesterday, and is hoping the event can be a catalyst for him once more.

Fanning has not surfed in a Margaret River event since 2001 when he famously won the event as a 19-year-old in a victory that was part of a sensational season.

Having bowed out early at the Quiksilver Pro at Snapper Rocks in disappointing fashion earlier this month, the Tweed Heads surfer is hopeful the famous break can kick-start his World Tour campaign once more.

“That was my first surf out there since that win,” he said.

“It was good to get through and reacquaint myself with the wave.

“I love coming here and it’s great to see the event really increase in status this year with the new changes to ASP event ratings.”

Swells should remain strong tomorrow when round three of the men’s division will be completed followed by round of 24 of the women’s action.