Adrian "Ace" Buchan, one of Australia's most celebrated junior surfers, finally hit his straps in 2008, collecting his first career victory at the Quiksilver Pro France, putting nine-time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater's victory champagne back on ice for at least another event. The well-rounded goofy-footer from the New South Wales Central Coast put in a banner year, rocketing up to a career high 6th place finish by season's end.

The young Australia bounced onto the ASP World Tour in 2006 but was bucked off as quickly as he arrived. Plagued by an ankle injury for most of his rookie season, the Avoca Beach ripper found his way back into the big leagues courtesy of an injury ASP Wildcard in 2007.

A late charge in 2007 saw Ace make a late ascent up the ratings and position himself as a force to be reckoned with, and last year solidified Buchan's credentials as a major threat. With 2009 looming and change in the air, Adrian could be one of the new power players on surfing's most prestigious stage.