Joel Parkinson, dubs-grip at Snapper Rocks, Gold Coast

This photo says a lot about day four of the Quiksilver Pro, Gold Coast. First, the crowd thinned out due to the event running on a work day. Second, the waves weren’t so hot and competitors were mostly taking to the air to syphon extra points outta the judges. And third, Joel Parkinson had a lot going on. He scored a 7.67 for this wave in round four – this air, followed by a coupla wraps and a tail-blow finish – but didn’t squeak past Jordy Smith. There’s a little rivalry forming between Joel and Jordy. “I’ve got some rivalries going today – I surfed against Jordy and we have a good one going,” said Joel. “I wanted to beat Joel bad,” said Jordy. “He’s beaten me pretty much my whole life, so I’ve got a lot to get him back for. He’s also one of my favourite surfers so it’s tough to come up against him.” The pair match up in the quarterfinals. And, if Joel can pull out another 10 like he did against Julian in round five, then the sparks may well fly.