SURFING SOAPBOX:Hopes swell for pro surfers

Anticipation mounts as all five world title contenders have advanced into round 4 of the Mundaka, Spain event — the ninth stop on the ASP world tour of surfing.

The event — which is now heading into its second week and nearing the end of its waiting period — so far has been plagued with small and inconsistent surf.

With three heats remaining of round 3, all eyes will begin to again focus on world title points leader and seven-time world champion Kelly Slater, who is looking for a win here and thus to capture his unprecedented eighth world title.

Other Title hopefuls also advancing into round 4 include current ratings number two, Taj Burrow; number 4, Joel Parkinson; and number 5 surfer, Mick Fanning.

Andy Irons — who is currently ranked 3 and the only surfer in contention for this year’s title besides Slater — won three world titles in a row, from 2002-2004. Irons barely escaped elimination yesterday against an in-form Yuri Sodre of Brazil.

Also advancing was California’s rookie sensation Bobby Martinez, while tour veteran Taylor Knox lost early in round 2, placing equal 33rd.

Looking ahead, Slater will have his hands full against goofy footer Corey Lopez. Andy Irons will also have a tough test against small-wave, backside sensation Trent Munroe.

Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson continue on a collision coarse. If both advance through round 4 and into the quarterfinals they will face one another.

The two are the best of friends, which should only add to the excitement. While the winner of this potential matchup will keep his title hopes alive and advancing on, the other will have to wait to challenge for next year’s title.

Swell forecast also looks hopeful.

This just in:

Kelly Slater advances into semi final one;

Joel Parkinson defeats Mick Fanning, ending Fanning’s title hopes and setting up a semi final showdown between Parkinson and Slater;

Andy Irons loses in the quarterfinals, also ending his title hopes, against rookie sensation Bobby Martinez;

Taj Burrow will surf his quarter final heat tomorrow morning. Peace.