On the morning of the trials here at snapper, i figured i would sit down and put a few thoughts onto paper (or computer screen) before heading into our first events as rookies on tour. My brothers and I have been here on the Goldcoast for about 2 weeks now.. It seems as though heaven on earth could exist for a surfer here in Oz. I’m sure as a reader you’re thinking… I’ve heard this before. And frankly, so have I. But I’m that excited about the energy of this place, that i feel compelled to share. It’s like being a little runt playing little league baseball, then one day getting to go to the Pro Stadium. Then one day being able to set feet on the freshly cut, beautiful green grass of that stadium. Then later being able to run out onto that field and feel the electric energy of thousands of people cheering for their favorite players, and local teams. While we may not quite have thousands of people cheering for us.. it’s a fun thought. In a freesurf yesterday, I was greeted with what to me was a “super session” of Mick fanning, Kelly, Taylor, and a handful of rookies, including myself, tanner, nate and simpo. People line the rocks with their point and shoot cameras hoping to catch a glimpse of the reigning Australian champ or the 9x, or an aspiring ripper performance. There’s even the little league groms littered across the dense line-up. A young West oz hell grommie Jack robinson, was deep behind the rock enjoying stand up (2 ft) barrels. It’s a dream land for groms. Running back up the point after a long ride, i am flagged down by friend and commentator Pete Mel. “Pat, can we get a few quick words?!” It’s the big show, and energies and anticipation seem high. For some, like Kelly, Taylor, and Mick, it’s perhaps just another event. And perhaps this will give them the calm cool collected edge over their rookie competitors. For us rookies, it’s like the first day of school. Everything seems relatively new, and fresh. From sessions like the one yesterday, i’ve been watching closely the seniors. Seeing where and how they surf these waves. At this point, preparation is in the past, and the present is upon us. We have nothing to loose and everything to learn from.. It’s a great place to be when setting foot onto the grass of our major league stadium. Stay tuned for updates and froth!!