The event has only ever been won once by a goofy footer, Mick Lowe, some nine years ago. So it’s no surprise that if you’re a betting person then you want to back a regular footer, in fact if the last eight years are anything to go by just bet on one of four guys. Kelly Slater, Taj Burrow and locals Joel Parkinson and Mick Fanning have monopolised the event.

But these guys are almost considered the old guard now and there are a hungry pack of youngsters waiting in the wings. John John Florence and Julian Wilson seem poised to have a run at a world title this year and don’t be surprised if they come out of the blocks fast.

This potential could signal the change of the world order starting at The Quiksilver Pro. Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson have held off the charge of the new generation. The three ‘veterans’ have won the last three world titles and have dominated at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. But it could be time for a change

How the likes of Julian Wilson, John John Florence and the raft of hungry youngsters perform could well set the pace for the rest of the year. But you just can’t rule the contest savvy and high performance old guard out just yet.

Men’s Trailer: