Will A Dislocated Shoulder Result In A Win At Snapper?

2019 was supposed to be the year for Leo Fioravanti. He battled his way back onto the CT, surfing with strength and confidence. Over the past 12 months, Leo’s found his groove. Unfortunately, for the Roman regular-footer, in Newcastle, an abrupt change of plans presented itself.

An errant air in the quarterfinals at last weekend’s Surfest in Newcastle resulted in a dislocated shoulder for Fioravanti. Facing an energized Matt Banting, Fioravanti punted on his first wave of the quarters, and that was it, game over.

“I was going for a full rote,” explained Fioravanti when Stab caught up with him. 

While the injury is a severe setback, the Italian is optimistic about his prognosis. He expects to return to action in time for the upcoming Quiksilver Pro in a couple of weeks. 

“Should be all good,” said Leo. “Lots of recovery, but I should get there.”

In terms of turning lemons into lemonade, let’s not forget what happened to Julian Wilson before the start of last season. A tumble over the handlebars of his mountain bike left him with a crook shoulder weeks before the Quik Pro. Then he went out and won the comp in pumping Kirra and spent the rest of the year contending for a world title. 

Actually, maybe Leo’s unlocked the secret to Gold Coast success…does a busted wing make the Gold Coast competitor sting?