… who are you really serving with this euphemistic “rotation” and why? This new addition seems awfully cannibalistic. The stress levels it places on athletes, most of whom are not paid well, isn’t necessary and only reinforces a selfishness that is already a serious problem in the world of surfing. What is best for the spectators (most of whom do not surf and likely never will) is not necessarily in the best interest of the surfers or surfing. The only thing that really sells surfing is great surfers in great waves. All the silly “tactics” and mind games the ASP is playing with itself is distracting, unnecessary, and appears to be contrary to acceptable behavior in local lineups, which has been making going surfing for people who live the lifestyle increasingly unpleasant.
Slater’s dual heat format was infinitely more interesting to watch. Why you chose not to implement it more often is a mystery not only to me but to most of my friends, several of whom are among the more well known and respected surfers anywhere in CA and beyond.

Medina would have gone on to blow minds and win events on the CT with or without this “rotation.” People will remember 2010′s bomb fest much longer than 2011′s final day of flyboy groveling (which is in no way intended to diminish the abilities of those who advanced).

I think it’s great that you are constantly taking creative approaches to figure out how to best promote the sport and I know that it is no easy feat to do so without possibly stepping on what makes the act so precious. But that is what needs to be considered above all else: at what point do we diminish the joy of what we love and devote our lives to in order to profit from it? In my opinion you guys have jumped the shark on this one. Careful you don’t fall in the tank and get eaten by your own show.