STEAMER LANE, SANTA CRUZ, California (October 21, 2004) – Day 3 of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic began with flawless conditions for the Men's round of 160. Consistent 3'-4' surf with occasional 6' sets provided a charged day of competition.

As a testament to the surfing talent of Santa Cruz, the local contingent earned ovations from the crowd as they pushed through the day with ease. Continuing on his roll was Homer Henard, finishing with the second highest combined score of the day of 15.1. Other victories were seen by a young Bud Frietas, winning consecutive heats, Julian Sekon, Randy Bonds, Josh Loya, Tyler Smith, and Joey Hutson,

Micah Byrne (Huntington Beach) concluded his performance with a 9.0, the highest scoring wave of the day. The young Hawaiian, Ola Eleogram had no problem adjusting to the cold-water temperatures, scoring 16.0, the highest overall heat score of the days competition.

Despite a decreasing swell throughout the day, conditions were consistent until heat 3 in the round of 96. As competitors sat with a minute remaining on the clock before officials called the heat in for a lack of waves, Ola Eleogram (Hawaii) caught the first rideable wave to come through. Ola managed to catch the only 2 set waves of the heat allowing him to advance on with a 6.17, along with Sean Hayes (Ventura) who was able to catch a last minute wave and secure a 4.67 over Brandon Tipton’s 2.67 and a frustrated Pancho Sullivan (Hawaii) who was unable to catch a wave.

As the field narrows and conditions challenge competitors every wave is becoming crucial to survive in the Cold Water Classic. Wave conditions for day 4 of the Cold Water Classic are expected to decrease throughout the day for the remainder of Round 6 and the beginning of the Women's round of 48. However, a steep NW wind/ground swell (310-330) will fill back in on Saturday and is expected to hold 2'-4' surf into early next week.

Look for live scoring, daily updates with photos and video on www.oneillcwc.asglive.com The O'Neill Cold Water Classic will air on FUEL December 11. For information on show times, please check your local listings or visit www.fuel.tv

The O'Neill Cold Water Classic is supported by Coors Original, Surfer Magazine, Surfing Magazine, SG Magazine, Red Bull, FUEL TV and ASP North America.

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Press Contacts: Mike Kingsbury, Cherie Whyte MKM, (714) 375-2188 mike@boardom.com