Intro:

Hawaiian surfer Makua Rothman won the season opening ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals) Big Wave World Tour event - the Billabong Pico Alto in Peru - on Thursday (3 July).

Script:

Hawaiian surfer Makua Rothman won the season opening ASP Big Wave World Tour event in Peru on Thursday.

In a field of 24 competitors, Rothman scored a near-perfect 9.40 as waves ranged from 25 to 40 feet and the winner took a moment to reflect on his victory -

SOUNDBITE (English) Makua Rothman, Billabong Pico Alto winner:

"Yeah, it's awesome. I just want to say I love you to my daughter who was born two days ago. I wore a hospital wristband the whole time, now I can take it off. Love you guys at home - Mum, Dad... (inaudible) everybody. It must have been the sunscreen I used this morning, I think so the sunscreen, that's what made the difference. I don't even know what to say, I'm happy. Viva Peru! Yeah. Thank you."

Rothman had gained entry into the event with a wildcard but and only just arrived in time following the birth of his daughter.

And Rothman thoroughly enjoyed his moment on the podium.