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The
Foster’s Surf Showdown, the dynamic new nation versus nation exhibition format
replacing last year’s Foster’s Expression Session, ran this afternoon
in front of a capacity crowd at Snapper Rocks. Featuring six teams in Australia,
America, Brazil, South Africa, Hawaii and the Foster’s Rookies, the Surf
Showdown was a resounding success as the two-man teams comprised of the Foster’s
45 battled it out in the 2 to 3 foot (0.6 to 0.9 metre) surf. 
“This
was the inaugural Foster’s Surf Showdown and we were treated to some exciting
nation versus nation action in a teams format,” Foster’s Surf Ambassador
Toby Martin said. “We’re excited that today’s event went so well,
and although we’re still toying with the format, we expect that the exhibition
will be a great success this season. Today proved that the Foster’s Rookies
were the top dogs to beat showing an incredible array of talent.” 
The
Foster’s Rookies, captained by local Josh Kerr (AUS) who surfed alongside
Jeremy Flores (FRA), took down a heavily favored team Australia comprised of Mick
Fanning (AUS) and Joel Parkinson (AUS). 
“I’m
just so stoked we’ve come out on top,” Kerr said. “Jeremy (Flores)
and I just went out there and tried to go big. I’ve been surfing here my
whole life so it feels great to get one off of Joel (Parkinson) and Mick (Fanning).
I’m really excited, we have a really deep talent pool in the rookies and
I’m looking forward to the rest of the event.” 
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