January 20, 1990 // Newport Beach, Australia
Synopsis: Chris Salisbury was one of three Aussies that came to the U.S. and dominated the Nike Pier Pressure Pro, making the finals all the way from Round One. The former NSW State Champ won the 2007 Australia vs. USA Alliance Cup, so he’s used to kicking ass over the U.S. surfers.
Variables: Salisbury was groomed at Newport Peak, the same break that produced Tom and Nick Carroll and similar ferocious surf animals. Though he lacks the muscles to intimidate, he makes up for in with an inner-fire and explosive attack. Is that enough to carry the torch of a proud surf town?
Forecast: You don’t emerge from Australia’s Newport without being ruthless in the water, which will serve him well. But, he won’t be getting the headlines of his Gold Coast counterparts, so he’ll continue to surprise.