Steph to spice up title tilt
HER style has won her seven world crowns but Steph Gilmore has revealed she is now working to “spice” up her surfing in a bid to win another title and a spot at next year’s Olympic Games.
Gilmore acknowledges her “mellow” style may not always be the right fit for judges and is looking to change things up on this year’s world tour.
Trailing early in her Rip Curl Pro heat at Bells Beach, Gilmore previewed a new intensity to win her opening surf of the world tour event at the famous Victorian surfing venue.
“I’ve been chopping and changing my boards and trying to surf with a little more spice,” Gilmore said.
“My style is a bit mellow at times. You have to be in the excellent range (8-10 out of 10) to win now and you really need to show the judges you want it.
“I want to bring something more of myself to the table. Show them I can do different things. Keep it fresh.”
Gilmore is chasing a record fifth women’s crown at the Bells Beach stop of the 10event women’s world tour.
The Tweed Coast star is the defending champion of three events of the schedule the Rip Curl Pro, Oi Rio Pro and the J-Bay Open.
These wins last year were a springboard to her matching fellow Australian Layne Beachley’s record of seven world titles.
“I’d love to win another one,” the 31-year-old said.
“I’m competitive, I don’t like to sit equal in that sense. But it’s such an honour to sit alongside Layne with seven world titles.”
The men’s and women’s competitions at Bells Beach are scheduled to resume today after two lay days.
Superb conditions are being forecast for the final three days.