Have a voice in proclaiming the top surfers! Surfer Poll 09

[love_surfing]

POLLS OPEN FOR 2009 SURFER POLL http://www.surferpoll.com

SURFER Magazine opened voting June 5th for the 2009 SURFER Poll. The annual SURFER Poll and Video Awards presented by American Suzuki & Ultimate Wave Tahiti, now in its 37th year, give SURFER readers a voice in proclaiming the top 10 male and top five female surfers in the world. The Polls will be open until August 15th, and the awards presented at a special event in September.

Each year, the SURFER Polls are considered a barometer of the most relevant and exciting surfers. With only 13 surfers in history ever attaining the pinnacle men’s honor, the award continues to be an exclusive right that is highly coveted among the world’s best.

Recent years have seen Kelly Slater dominate the top spot. The nine-time World Champion has also racked up an astounding 14 SURFER Polls (1993-2001, 2004-2008). Other men’s winners include iconic surfers such as Phil Edwards (1963), Shaun Tomson (1978), Tom Curren (1985-1992) and Andy Irons (2002, 2003). Irons is the only surfer to have ousted Slater from his reign, and has continued giving him a run for the money in subsequent years.

Although the women’s winner is a bit less predictable, Sofia Mulanovich has been leaving her stamp on the last few years. She has earned the top prize for the last four consecutive years (2005-2008). Other female recipients include Lisa Andersen (1992, 1994-1999), Rochelle Ballard (2000-2002) and Layne Beachley (2003, 2004).

To make a mark on history and help determine this year’s winners, fans should visit http://www.surferpoll.com, the official website of the 2009 SURFER Poll and Video Awards presented by American Suzuki & Ultimate Wave Tahiti. Mail in ballots are also available in the July and August issues of SURFER Magazine. Voting ends on August 15, 2009.

About SURFER Magazine
Upon its inception in 1960, SURFER Magazine brought a unity of voice and vision to an otherwise niche and fragmented sport. Today, the original surf publication is widely recognized as the "Bible of the Sport" and the driving force in the surf world, reaching more surfers worldwide than any other surf magazine. SURFER is part of Source Interlink’s Action Sports Group (ASG) that reaches more than 2 million action sports enthusiasts through an integrated network of magazines, online properties, events, and television programming.

About American Suzuki
The Brea, Calif.-based Operations of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) was founded in 1963 by parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) and currently markets its vehicles in the United States through a network of approximately 400 automotive dealerships and numerous other motorcycle, ATV and marine dealerships in 49 states. With global headquarters in Hamamatsu, Japan, SMC is a diversified worldwide automobile, motorcycle, and outboard motor manufacturer. In 2008, SMC sold more than two and a half million new cars and trucks and more than three million motorcycles and ATVs. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has operations in 193 countries and regions. For more information, visit http://www.media.suzuki.com.

About Ultimate Wave Tahiti
Ultimate Wave Tahiti, featuring Kelly Slater, will premiere next February. It is the first 3D film produced and distributed for IMAX Theaters to focus on surfing and the unique waves that travel thousands of miles, eventually making it all the way to Teahupoo. Together with Tahitian Raimana Van Bastolaer, Slater will treat movie-goers to a blend of sport, ocean science, and cultural history that will both enthrall and fascinate. Award-winning director, Stephen Low, brings a never-before-seen filming technique to the giant screen, opening eyes to the beauty and intensity of some of the world's most powerful of waves. Ultimate Wave Tahiti, which will be released worldwide to IMAX and other giant screen and digital theaters in 3D and 2D, is executive produced by K2 Communications, Inc. and presented by Suzuki, with supporting partnerships from Tahiti Tourism North America and Quiksilver.