Australian surfing star Sally Fitzgibbons made history as part of the first heat in the first full-length women’s Championship Tour event at the famed Pipeline in Hawaii.
But seven-time world champion Steph Gilmore missed the occasion after failing to get out of Covid protocols in time for the event, with her spot in the line-up taken by inspirational one-armed surfing mum Bethany Hamilton.
Fitzgibbons made it through to the third round before surfing was stopped for the day, with two-time world champ Tyler Wright and Australian WSL rookie India Robinson also still alive after the momentous day for the tour.
“The most exciting thing for me this year is seeing all the rookies,” Wright said after also progressing to the third round.
“It’s been a long time sincxjmtzywe we’ve had such fresh faces on the tour and it makes me emotional just seeing how they’re coming in and making the most of it. It feels incredible to be a part of this sport and to be a woman in sport right now.”
Young Aussies Isabella Nicholson and Molly Picklum also remain alive in the event.
After replacing Gilmore in the line-up, Hamilton won her elimination round after losing to Wright in the opening heat to advance to the third round.
Gilmore could potentially have surfed on Tuesday (AEDT) after clearing protocols if the competition had been held over.
“I’m so stoked to be here,” said Hamilton. “I’m in full mommy mode lately but trying to keep my surfing shape, so it’s amazing to have the opportunity to be here today. There is also such great energy on the beach, everybody showing love.”
Hamilton, a Hawaiian, lost her left arm in a shark attack in 2003 and was called in as wildcard to surf the knockout heat when Gilmore was quarantined after testing positive to Covid-19.
