2012 was Parko’s year. He took out the final stop the prestigious Pipeline Masters in memory of Andy Irons, over fellow Queenslander Josh Kerr. With Kelly out in the semi’s, Parko paddled out for the final already the world champ.
His consistency continued from the early rounds, and barrel after barrel he got deep and gained the scores he needed.
For Parko, the two-time junior world champ and four-time world tour runner-up, taking the mantle from Slater and the pinnacle in competition surfing, it was clear how much it meant to him.
“Thanks to Andy for pushing those things in. It really felt like he was a part of it out there… he’ll always be a part of it.
“It feels amazing. Thanks Kelly, I’m honoured to accept this from you.”
I was lucky enough to catch up with Joel a week out from stop #2 on the circuit, the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, earlier in the year. We spoke about summer, his preparations, the prestige around ringing the Bell and his hopes for the year ahead.
5-foot Cathedral was the perfect setting.
Check out the interview here:
And keep an eye out for the world champ this year, when things kick off at the Quiky Pro on the Gold Coast, March 2-15.
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