Sally Fitzgibbons has conquered the 2011 Rip Curl Women’s Pro Bells Beach and is ready to battle for the 2011 ASP World title. The Australian surfer girl played in home waters and got the best waves of the final heat against Carissa Moore.
The clash was surf in Rincon's three-to-four foot (1.5 metre) waves. "This is so overwhelming," Fitzgibbons said.
"It’s been a long journey for me to finally win and this is incredible. I can’t feel my arms or legs and I’m just trying to keep from crying right now. It’s been a really long time coming and I want to thank all the girls for pushing me as well as all my family and friends who have supported me over the years."
Fitzgibbons finished runner-Up in three 2010 surf contests as well as in the season. Today's maiden victory was made all the more emotional for the young Australian, clinching the title in the event's 50th year of operation, surrounded by her heroes and sporting icons.
"It’s extra special to win it this year for the 50 years event," Fitzgibbons said. "Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always watched my heroes surf and win here and I’ve always dreamed of ringing the Bell and now that it’s happened, I don’t know what to say. The other night at the 50-year ball, I saw all my icons on stage and I was so inspired. So to win right now is a dream come true."
Sally Fitzgibbons takes the second place in the ASP Women's World Tour rankings. Moore remains firmly in the driver’s seat in this year’s hunt for the ASP Women’s World Title, and will look to further cement her position at next week’s event in New Zealand.
"I’m stoked to have made the Final with Sally (Fitzgibbons)," Moore said. "For her to come out on top was awesome. We’ve have a lot of good clashes last year and this year, and her win’s been a long time coming so congrats to her. Of course I would have liked to have rung the Bell, but that may have to happen next year."
The next stop on the 2011 ASP Women’s World Title season will be the Subaru Pro TSB Bank Women’s Surf Festival in Taranaki, New Zealand from April 27 – May 1, 2011.
2011 Rip Curl Women’s Pro Bells Beach | Final
1. Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) 16.77
2. Carissa Moore (HAW) 15.40