Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (October 13, 2008): Brazilian local Simao Romao won the Oakley Presents 2008 Rio Surf Pro International yesterday by beating Greg Emslie (ZAF) in Arpoador. The contest, an ASP WQS 6-Star event, was held amid a strong pro-Brazilian crowd in Rio de Janeiro. The win for Romao is huge as it allows him to jump up to the 18th spot on the ASP WQS ratings and gives him a strong chance to quality for the 2009 ASP World Tour.
"I had a dream two years ago. It was about an important competition here and I would win it," Romao said. "I would climb the rock and remain there beating my chest. This event was that dream and I would like to thank all the locals, my friends, my family and my sponsors who supported me all the way. That victory goes especially to my dad (Paulo) because today is his birthday."

"It was really hot and there were almost no waves," Romao said. "I knew I had to surf my best to beat Greg (Emslie) who is a World Tour level surfer and fortunately I was able to get some good ones and do everything possible I could to win. I had some very tough match ups, especially against William Cardoso in the semifinal, but when I overcame him I just kept the dream alive."

Greg Emslie (ZAF) was unable to pull off the win but his second place finish moves him to number 9 on the ASP WQS ratings and secures his ASP World Tour requalification.
"I really wanted to win but unfortunately there were almost no waves in the final," Emslie said. "It was good to be in another final in Brazil, as I said before, I get lucky here and the result gives me more confidence to go after my place in the ASP World Tour. I am now in the classification zone and will try keeping it this way till the end of the season."