I'll be upfront about it, I've got money down on Jamie O'brien. He killed the trials and his cocky arrogant style of surfing is what this wave demands in order to perform. He's also super cheap right now, freeing up some extra cash to make a purchase for a certain surfer that seems to be on fire. El Slay-tor! But, it all depends on if the surf provides. If it was like last year, we could see Jeremy Flores win which would be a bit of a disappointment in my opinion. No offense to Flores but when I think of Champs for this event, his name is no where near the radar screen. I may eat my words here but I wouldn't put money down on Bede. He's surfing great but his backhand attack is lacking in sizable surf. He's a tall bloke which increases his chance to get smacked by the lip there. As for Fanning, we will see. He had a great result last year but this year his motivation doesn't seem as intense. It's as if Slater just took the wind out of his sails after the final at the Quik Pro. The big question is, will AI step up finally and surf like he should be surfing. The two quarters he had with Slater this year were just disappointing. All the media guys have been making excuses or glancing over his losses, saying "oh, the waves were crap for that heat and he lost motivation." That's BS mate! If you are in a heat with Slater, especially him, that should be motivation enough. He hasn't had a real good result at Chopes in a long time. His name used to be synonymous with the place. Now, he's just another competitor who has been waxed by Dean Morrison a handful of times in recent pasts at this spot. Dingo is the the dark horse to keep an eye on. He thrives on big hollow lefts! A definite for your teams. And how about the Hobgoods. Always a good bet to take the whole thing. Even Damo who busted his shoulder a few weeks ago. That guy is either extremely motivated, crazy or just plain stupid. We will see this coming week. A High is now dominating the region and it is looking like there will not be any big waves for the beginning of the event. Hopefully it doesn't end up like last year or worse... A french Flag being flown with Flores being handed a Hinano in the channel... Good luck to everyone and if you are in the area, Sundown will be watching the event Live at the shop. So come down if you have some time to kill and want to watch the comp with others and talk s--t. 2726 Hempstead Turnpike, just east of the Wantaugh Parkway. Cheers,  Tyler Breuer Sundown Ski and Surf  516-796-1565  www.sundownsurf.blogspot.com  www.sundownsurf.com