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Aussie
Surfer Scores a Spot in the Trials of the Quiksilver Pro France and Quiksilver
Pro Australia Saturday 5 August 2006: Dean Bowen
(AUS) won a nail biting final against Kiron Jabour (HAW) in the Quiksilver King
of the Groms in Capbreton, France today. Bowen's victory earned him a prestigious
place in the upcoming Quiksilver Pro France in September, and in the Quiksilver
Pro Australia in March 2007. 
Bowen,
15, of Gerringong, New South Wales, Australia was ecstatic as he was carried up
the beach by his mates, crowned on spectacular hand-carved wooden throne, and
showered by non-alcoholic champagne. "It's such a great event," he said.
"I really felt I surfed my best all week." Bowen
was equally thrilled to now have a chance to surf against his heroes for two events
on the ASP WCT World Tour. "I can't wait to get into a 'CT and try and take
some guys out," he said. 
Finishing
in equal third were Jon-Jon Florence (HAW) and Shaun Joubert (ZAF). Before
the final, a Mixing of the Waters ceremony was held with competitors bringing
samples from the ocean off their local beaches in Europe, America, the South Pacific,
Africa and Asia. The event, meant to symbolize the spirit
of international camaraderie and brotherhood at the contest, also featured a paddle-out
where groms from all over the world sat in the circle just beyond the breakers
and clasped hands. 
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