Joel Parkinson, Chopesian sheet glass, Tahiti

There wasn’t a whole lot of people out at Chopes with Joel Parkinson on the day you see pictured here. Which is strange, especially looking at the quality of this wave. Like anyone else in the event (except Ace), Joel was gunning for a better finish than he scooped, though it might’ve meant more to Joel than most others (watch this clip to see why). Kelly Slater eventually ended Joel’s run in round five. But, considering the quality of fishing, a pastime Joel’s real fond of, and the friends he has there, and the general lifestyle at the end of the road, it’s hard to imagine too bad a time being had by Mr Parkinson. Oh, and then there’s the waves…