Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic Set to Start Tomorrow

After a lengthy break on the ASP Women’s World Tour, the third of seven stops will begin tomorrow with the Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic which holds a waiting period from September 30 through October 5, 2009 at Dee Why in New South Wales.

Layne Beachley (AUS), 37, who is a seven-time ASP Women’s World Champion, is set to battle the onslaught of hungry up-and-coming talent on this year’s Dream Tour. Although Beachley is only competing part-time on this year’s tour, the veteran campaigner’s valuable competitive experience makes her a threat in every heat.

“There has been a big break on tour so it is somewhat fitting for it all to get back underway with the richest prize-purse on offer,” Beachley said. “It’s wonderful to have support from Australia’s leading bank, the Commonwealth Bank, and I’m looking forward to a terrific start tomorrow.”

After standing on the leading front of competitive female surfing for nearly 20 years, Beachely is now blending her competitive spirit while working hard to continue to create a future for the sport by founding events like the Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic.

“I really find myself in juxtaposition this time of year,” Beachley said. “Emotionally I am invested in staging a great event but also wanting to compete at the best of my ability. I’m really focused on running a wonderful event for the surfers, sponsors and fans.”

Paige Hareb (NZL), 19, is currently sitting in the No. 3 spot on the ASP Women’s World Tour and is the leading rookie after the first two events. The young New Zealand talent has been keeping busy after the lengthy break by competing on the ASP WQS while spending some of the down time at home.

“It’s been like one big holiday,” Hareb said. “I’ve still been doing the world qualifying series in between but had a three-week break in California and have also been at home a bit hitting the snow!”

Although Hareb exceeded her expectations in the first two events on the 2009 calendar, the young Kiwi is hoping the keep the ball rolling at this week’s Commonwealth Bank Beachley classic and is looking to climb to the top of the ASP Women’s World Tour ratings.

“To be honest I’m surprised,” Hareb said. “I’ll take it though and of course I’m going to try and stay there if not better it.”

There will be an official press conference Wednesday, September 30, 2009 at 10:45am at Dee Why Surf Club. Surfers Layne Beachley, defending ASP Women’s World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), 21, and defending Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic Champion Tyler Wright (AUS), 15, will be attending.

For all of the LIVE Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic action log on to www.beachleyclassic.com

For additional ASP information log on to www.aspworldtour.com

Source: Surfer Magazine