Hurley Signs Surf Phenom John John Florence

COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Hurley announced today that it has signed Hawaiian surf prodigy John John Florence to a five-year agreement. Growing up at Hawaii's famous surf spot known as "Pipeline," Florence, 20, has become famous for thriving in surfing's most high-risk situations and is looking forward to his new beginning with Hurley. "I am very grateful and happy to be riding for Hurley, especially at this time of my life," says Florence.  "To be able to start 2013 with a new team and good people will ultimately help to accomplish my goals I have set for the future.  I am excited to be a part of such an innovative company and can't wait to see what happens in the years to come" 

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130108/LA39388-a)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130108/LA39388-b)

In just one full year on the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Tour, Florence has already captured the hearts and minds of the surfing world. While still a teenager, he finished fourth in the world, achieved a Triple Crown title, three wins at Pipeline, an ASP world tour win, a runner-up at the Surfer Poll and invites to two of the world's most prestigious big-wave events.  Florence wrapped up the year by being named 2012 ASP Rookie of the Year. 

"John is the most innovative and talented surfer to come along in the last 20 years," says Hurley's VP of Sports Marketing Pat O'Connell. "Dream what might be possible in surfing and I'm sure he's going to exceed it in the next five years. We just want to support him in every way as he continues to inspire us in all conditions."

Florence joins what has already become the surf community's most decorated surf team, which includes athletes such as Julian Wilson, Carissa Moore and Rob Machado.  Beyond surfing for the brand, Florence will collaborate with Hurley's Innovation team to continue to evolve and drive forward Hurley's award-winning Phantom product platform. 

Florence will help inform the next generation of Phantom boardshorts immediately as he prepares for his sophomore debut on the 2013 ASP World Tour in late February. "I've always liked to surround myself around magic," said Hurley CEO and Founder Bob Hurley. "John John has that special talent that only comes around every few decades or so. It's a magic that will transcend well beyond our world and will make us all strive to be better. Needless to say, I'm humbled, honored and so looking forward to supporting John John as he revolutionizes surfing over and over again."

ABOUT HURLEY

The essence of Hurley is based on our love of the ocean and its constant state of change. With deep roots in beach culture, we value inclusion, innovation, positivity and empowering the youth. Music and art are the common threads that bring us together. We are passionate about freedom of expression and place a premium on smiles. Welcome to our world. www.hurley.com

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SOURCE Hurley