So it is all over the internet: Coco Ho dropped in on Layne Beachley in the Final heat of the Reef Hawaiian Pro. Layne needed a ride of 6.83 to beat out Hawaiian Carissa Moore, a close friend of Coco. After being cut of by Coco, she did not get the chance to show her stuff and possibly win the contest.

Was there a conspiracy amongst the friends? Did this incident cost Layne a chance to win a contest in her retirement year? These are all issues being debated in the surf world.

The latest news is the ASP Athlete Rules & Discipline Committee reviewed video, held interviews from those present, and made a ruling. Coco will not be fined, but will be required to attend counseling on the rules and sportsmanship expected in ASP events.

In a statement to the media, the ASP Rules Judge Robert Gerard said :

“Coco is a fine young athlete and person and as a result of my investigation, notwithstanding the countless opinions being thrown about in the surf media and blogs, I am completely satisfied that this incident was the result of over-zealousness in the dying moments of a Final heat by a 17-year-old competitor who was simply trying to get a score and qualify for the ASP Women’s World Tour. I could go on in great detail about what was going on in Coco’s mind at the time of drop-in/interference, but I am convinced that it was not directed toward harming Layne Beachley’s efforts to secure a win.”

Lucky for Coco, a relative new comer, the ASP saw things that way. She offered the statement:

“I feel so badly about this incident, especially since it involved Layne who I hold in such high regard and who has done so much for women’s surfing. I have certainly learned a lot from this whole experience and I am stoked that the ASP did not just go by the rumors and the press, but worked with me and my coach and my family to make sure I got to apologize and use this as a learning tool. For me, I just want to look forward and be the best I can be and I want to do everyone proud including my family, my sponsors, Hawaii, my country, and the sport.”

So what does Layne think? Her only comment to the press at this time is: “That’s what happens here in Hawaii.” Sounds like the Aloha spirit has not reached the women on tour this year. Though as a 7 time world ASP Women’s World Champ is use to letting her surfing do the talking.

Layne will be paddling out this week at the Roxy Pro Sunset. Today was another lay day as the event organizers are waiting for the surf to be more consistent. We will see if Layne can move up from her number 3 position and retire as the 2008 champ. Check back to read the Roxy Pro Sunset news. You can watch the action at www.triplecrownofsurfing.com

Tags: ASP World Tour, Coco Ho, Layne Beachley, Roxy