Joel Parkinson kicked off the 2009 World Tour in grand style Wednesday by dominating the semifinals and finals on his way to a season-opening victory. Parkinson scored two perfect 10s, one in the semis against Mick Fanning and the other in the finals against Brazil's Adriano de Souza. Parkinson scored a total 18.83 to de Souza's 11.30 in the final.In the Semis, Parkinson faced off against former world champ Mick Fanning, who put up a strong combined score of 17.66. However, Parkinson's perfect 10 along with a 9.93 sealed the victory for the Aussie. In the other semi, de Souza had a solid 14.84 against Taj Burrow, who couldn't find his rhythm, managing only a 5.34.
The location for the final was Kirra instead of the primary venue of Snapper Rocks or the back-ups Duranbah Beach and Coolangatta Beach. All three were utilized in action yesterday leading up to the Semis.
For the 27-year-old Parkinson, the win was his second at the Gold Coast and gives him the early lead in the World Tour rankings. The next stop will be Bells Beach in Australia for the Rip Curl Pro starting April 7.
For more about the contest, check out the official site at www.quiksilverpro.com.au/
