The Status Quo, with Jordan Smith

Ain’t it sweet watching a pro come up? Take Jordy Smith, for example. The cocky, brash kid brimming with congenital talent (and a penchant for debauch) we first saw, has since grown into a mature(er) man, a dominant force on the tour, disciplined, focused and someone who, like all powerful men (they say), has a strong woman behind him. One thing that’s remained a constant in Jordy’s career, however, has been short and to-the-point interview responses. When Stab spoke with the South African, his banter from the End of The Road was, unsurprisingly, concise as ever. Stab: Is the first event back after a win easier or harder? Jordy Smith: I’d say it’s neither. I take each event as it comes. I won the last event and that was awesome, but that was then, this is now. Right now, I’m focusing on Teahupo’o A lot of guys I talk to say that having a girlfriend can be a distraction from tour. How’ve you found it? If they say that, then I think they’re dating the wrong girls. My girl has her own life and I have mine. We’ve found a happy medium where I support her goals, and she supports mine. If anything, she helps me focus and I know that if I have an issue or a problem, I can go to her for advice just as she could come to me. Lyndall seems awesome. She’s kicked my ass into gear. As a surfer I can be quite lazy, and she makes sure I get my stuff done – that’s why you’re getting this interview so fast (laughs). Wok sent us a pretty funny video of you packing for Chopes. Is it always that last minute for you? Yes, it’s always last minute, I’ll admit that, but that clip was all put-on. I don’t let other people pack my shit for me. Which is probably why I end up with the wrong stuff half the time (laughs). I think it kinda shows real pure, natural talent when you can seem so cruisy then show up and kill it. Whatchya reckon? (Laughs) I don’t like to froth out too hard. Being relaxed and just cruising is part of my preparation, mentally. Tell me about the Range Rover! (Jordy just bought a new car) (Laughs) It’s my baby. I like to stare at it for fun. People are not allowed to eat or drink in it. I almost don’t even let them roll down the windows! I saved up for a while and spoiled myself. First toy I’ve ever bought for me! It also helps towing jet skis in and outta spots. The world title – do you feel ready to win? Yes. I’m definitely going to give it my best shot. There’s an old saying that the journey’s more important than the destination. Do you think that’s kinda true for you, like, the challenge of tour is the best part, or is it all about the win? I think the tour, being as hard as it is, makes the reward that much greater. Set the scene for me in Chopes, right now. Today we’re waiting for this massive swell that’s coming. It’s a little rainy and overcast, but we’re keeping ourselves entertained with soccer games, movies, hiking in the valley and sight seeing. What’s your daily routine? I pretty much get up, eat breakfast, do some exercise, maybe have a quick surf, then have lunch, do my emails, go sightseeing or go for a jet ski ride, then another surf or a soccer game, and then have dinner and crash. What’s the biggest you’ve surfed Chopes? Six-eight feet. The forecasted swell looks serious. Honestly, are you scared? Anybody who says they aren’t scared would be lying. Yes, I’m scared. – Elliot Struck