REMEMBER WHEN

GOLD COAST BULLETIN Monday, Dec 14, 2009

TRIUMPHANT Gold Coast surfer Mick Fanning paid an emotional tribute to wife Karissa for inspiring him to his second world title in three years in Hawaii.

On a day of high drama, huge wipe-outs and perfect surf at the famed Pipeline, Fanning wrapped up the 2009 crown after childhood friend Joel Parkinson bowed out of the contest in the third round.

Close to tears as he accepted his world title trophy overlooking the sacred surfing spot, Fanning gave a rare glimpse inside his personal life in a heartfelt speech thanking his wife of 21 months for all her support.

“To my wife Karissa, you are the most amazing person and I don’t think I would ever be as calm or feel as loved without you,’’ said the 28-year-old.

“Karissa, I love you so much and thank you so much for putting up with me.

“What better place to become a world champion than standing right here at Pipeline.

“This is where surfing started, so this moment is going to stay with me forever.’’

For Fanning, it was sheer jubilation. For Parkinson, the day brought nothing but devastation.

The 2009 World Tour season went down in history as one of the most dramatic, with Parkinson winning three of the first five events before an ankle injury threw his campaign into turmoil.

It allowed Fanning to rally in the latter half of the season and overtake his good friend.

The two “Coolangatta Kids” headed into the Pipeline showdown knowing that only one would walk away with the spoils of victory.