Filipe Toledo Claims 13th CT Victory at Hurley Pro Sunset Beach
Newly minted World Champion Filipe Toledo (BRA) is back on top after his win at the Hurley Pro Sunset Beach. Toledo had a strong start at the first stop of the season, finishing in fifth, but his win now makes it clear that he is out to prove that he can defend his World Title in 2023. The 27-year-old now has 13 CT victories to his name and sits at World No. 2 on the rankings heading into Portugal.
“I’m grateful to be here and in the position I am,” said Toledo. “It is special to share cool moments with all these surfers. Hawaii is always one of those places where you want to get better, evolve, and win events, and this means a lot to me.”
The men’s Final witnessed a rematch of the 2022 Surf City El Salvador Pro Final and got underway with fireworks straight out of the gates. A massive exchange between Toledo and Colapinto, showed how powerful their respective forehand attacks can be. Colapinto’s astonishing effort earned a near-perfect 9.17, showing total commitment to a heavy section. Toledo posted a 7.83 for his multiple, powerful manoeuvres.
The last two minutes provided a last opportunity for both surfers to showcase their power once. Toledo’s lightning-fast attack earned him a near-perfect 9.47 and pushed the requirement higher. Colapinto’s last attempt fell short, crowning Toledo the event victor.
“It means a lot, I worked super hard for this just training and surfing,” said Toledo. “Last year was fun, and I got what I wanted, which was my Title, and I learned a lot. When it comes to situations like this, I feel like I’m really well-prepared and ready for anything. Griffin Colapinto came out swinging, and I’m just thinking, ‘I’m ready, here we go.’ I knew the right wave would come, it was slow for a lot of the heat, but I could see he was tense having that 9.17. He seemed a little nervous, I don’t know if he was or not, and I stayed calmed and composed and just wait for the wave, then do what I have to do.”
San Clemente’s Colapinto fell shy of his third career CT win, but he will use the momentum heading into the next stop in Portugal, where he is the defending event winner. The 24-year-old is ready for his breakthrough season after failing to make the Final 5 by one place last season. Colapinto proved he’s ready to take on the world’s best after taking down World No. 1 Jack Robinson (AUS) in the Semifinals and Ethan Ewing (AUS) in the Quarterfinals.
“I feel great, that was a crazy heat with Filipe (Toledo), and the only heats I’ve had with him are in the Finals, so that’s been pretty cool,” said Colapinto. “That was a good little battle, and I’m super stoked. Caroline [Marks] lives in my hometown as well, so it’s a good day.”
