Simpson claims surfing's biggest prize

Unheralded American Brett Simpson has beaten former world champion Mick Fanning to win surfing's biggest prize to go with the US Open title.

The 24-year-old Huntington Beach local collected $US100,000 for his win in solid Californian surf.

Simpson put together a string of good waves early in the final including a 9.10 that put the pressure on his Australian opponent.

Simpson's win in the six-star World Qualifying Series solidified his campaign to earn a place on the main Dream Tour.

Fanning earned just $US10,000 for his second place cheque as sponsor Hurley threw the bulk of their money at making it a record payout for the winner.

On a dramatic last day that started with the quarter-finals and saw nine-times world champion Kelly Slater eliminated by Brazil's Adriano de Souza, Simpson used his knowledge of the beach and conditions well to pull off a major upset amongst illustrious company.

Fanning had blazed into the final by blitzing de Souza but was no match for Simpson who finished with a two wave total of 16.93 compared to Fanning's 12.50.

New Zealand's representation in the event finished early.

Bobby Hansen was the best of the men in 49^th place while qualifier Richard Christie's solid run eventually ended in 73^rd.

Highly rated Paige Hareb finished a disappointing 13th in the women's championship. Wini Paul and Arini Mason were equal 37^th.

- © Fairfax NZ News