Tom Whitaker and Kelly Slater, Lowers, CA

Ain’t it sweet? After crushing his opponent Tommy Whits, in the third heat of round three today at the Hurley Pro, Lowers, Kelly Slater flashed a grin and patted Tom’s back. Of course, it’s probable that this is just a heart-warming moment of sportsmanship, but would it be happening if the tables were turned? If Kell had lost? Perhaps, perhaps not. Tom, who got the call-up for the event at the last minute, jumped a plane from Australia and was all but straight into a jersey after touchdown. That he got to round three is pretty awesome, and knows that, when you’re a wildcard, y’can’t feel bad for falling to someone like Kelly. Hence the smile, and the gooey moment.