Dream team returns to Oz

All right folks, we don't call this column the "Surfing Soap Box" for nothing, so let's talk a little surfing for a change. I'll be sure to get back to current issues ? such as parking, water quality and open space just to name a few ? in Laguna Beach next week.

The "WCT" ? otherwise known as the Association of Surfing Professionals World Championship Tour, or commonly referred to as "the dream tour" ? has begun on the epic stretch of beach in Queensland, Australia.

As the first stop on the 12-stop surfing tour, every one of the top 44 surfers in the world competing in this event wants to start their new season with a bang. As this event heads into round 4 in three-to-four foot waves, this event has already seen its fair share of surfing upsets.

But none bigger than Association of Surfing Professionals' world tour rookie ? at the tender age of 32 ? Hawaii's Pancho Sullivan taking down Aussie local and defending event champion Mick Fanning.

Also going down early were former world champion CJ Hobgood, and last year's No. 3 and No. 6 surfers Phil Macdonald and Trent Munroe.

Californian rookie Bobby Martinez and California veteran Talor Knox have both looked sharp in advancing into round 4 with surfing superstars Andy Irons and Kelly Slater.

Somewhat new to professional surfing this year are the competitors' personal conditioning and training.

We now see the top surfers doing weight training, yoga, swimming and cycling, and this will only add more legitimacy to an already growing sport.

OK, so let's make some predictions: I'm going with Aussie local Joel Parkinson with young rookie Brazilian upstart Adriano de Souza in a surprise final and my pick for 2006 world champion is none other than Kelly Slater ? that is if he decides to go for No. 8.

Speaking of Australia, the Laguna Beach fundraiser for Australian surfer and cancer survivor Richie Lovett was followed up by another one during Ry Craike's 21st birthday bash this week during a "lay day" ? a break from the competition ? for the Quiksilver pro. You can be assured that some of the top 44 were there in full celebration. After all it was a lay day ?

Peace.