Dane Reynolds leaning into a mean one during his wildcard run at the 2012 Quik Pro France. Photo: Joli/ESPN
It’s officially fall and that means the European leg of the Dream Tour is upon us. Baguettes, berets, and beachbreak barrels. The heaving sandbars of France and Portugal produce some of the most high-performance surfing of the entire year. And the upcoming Quik Pro France is about to get even more exciting as Dane Reynolds has snagged the wildcard.
We know what you’re thinking – who cares? Dane never does well anyway. Well, here’s a response to you haters – QUIT BEING A NEGATIVE NANCY. Dane’s a new man. He’s got a kid. He’s grown up. And after years off the tour – breaking the hearts of surf fans everywhere in 2011 – he’s had time to mature. So perhaps with the weight off his shoulders, he’ll be able to perform at his best. After all, La Graviere bears uncanny resemblance to the beachbreaks of his homeland in Oxnard and Ventura counties…WHICH HE DESTROYS.
Another factor in this year’s wildcard appearance is that Dane will be donating his winnings to a charity. On Instagram, Dane wrote: “so i just got news i’ll be in the quiksilver pro france next week and i’m gonna donate my prize money to someone that needs it more than me. i usually donate to animal stuff (wildlife rehabilitation places, animal shelters, aspca) but any suggestions on foundations with a good cause?” This, too, could force Dane into a rare competitive spirit.
The contest waiting period kicks off October 6th, but until then check out footage from Dane’s 2012 wildcard in the event:
