Action Underway at Reef Hawaiian Pro

Nearly 100 surfers faced off in Haleiwa, Hawaii, as the Reef Hawaiian Pro barrelled into the third round Friday.   Ninety-six surfers paired off in four-man heats took to the water, hoping to advance to round four where higher seeds like Mick Fanning, Pancho Sullivan and Taj Burrow await them.

California’s Brett Simpson was the standout for the day, posting a near-perfect 9.93 in his round three win.  He’ll face much stiffer competition in round four, where he’ll face defending world champ Fanning, Yadin Nicol and Tonino Benson.

Among the notable surfers ousted on Friday were Mark Occhilupo (pictured) and ASP World Tour rookie Aritz Aranburu.

Action is expected to continue on Saturday with the kick-off of the women’s event followed by the conclusion of round three.

Watch the contest live at the Triple Crown of Surfing website.