MARK OCCHILUPO

No-one could argue that Mark Occhilupo deserves to be recognised with a status way above that of mortal man. Boasting one of the most impressive careers in ASP history, he began his professional campaign way back in 1983 as a 15-year-old and redefined high-performance surfing for a generation. With power and flow, "Occy" was quick to break into the top-five on the world tour but after a few seasons at the top, Occy battled personal demons and slipped off the tour.

The tenacious Australian then launched a comeback in the late '90s which saw the fit and focused Occy claim his first world title in 1999 at age 33. With well over 20 years of competition under his belt, 2005 saw him contemplate retirement but after a solid year where he was recognised as putting on arguably the best backside performance ever seen at Jeffreys Bay and with an immense amount of fan support, Occ changed his plans and is back to give the youngsters (who are literally half his age) plenty of stick.

Finally, Occy decided to step away from the world tour at the end of 2007, but due to popularity, he gained wild card entry into and handful of events on tour in 2008. Occ also found his second calling as a TV personality on Fuel TV, as well as an ever popular web cast commentator for the world tour. You can still see Occy at most events, still free surfing as well as he ever has. Or you may even see him at his local break, Snapper Rocks. But you can guarantee that he is still blowing minds with his powerful assault on waves all around the world.

Career Highlights:

1998 - 1st, Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach (WCT)

1999- ASP World Tour Champion

1999 - 1st, Gotcha Pro Tahiti (WCT)

1999 - 1st, Quiksilver Pro Fiji (WCT)

1999 - 1st, Billabong Pro Anglet/Mundaka (WCT)