Tyler does her homework on the wave

REIGNING WSL women’s champion Tyler Wright has done her homework on Bells Beach, and has an optimistic outlook for the Rip Curl Pro.

Speaking at Bells on Tuesday, Wright said she felt settled ahead of the start of competitive surfing.

“I’ve spent quite a bit of time in the area in the last month or so – which is a bit unusual for me, because I don’t like the cold that much – but I’m excited for the event.

“The prep has probably been as good as I could ask for. I’ve had two trips down here recently specifically to work on this wave and I can see, and my coach can see, a lot of potential for me here.”

She has not yet considered what her biggest challenge will be, but is ready for anything.

“I feel this wave does its own unique thing so whatever happens, that with the prep that I’ve done and the mindset I’ve come in with, I’ll adapt to what needs to be done.”

Wright said Bells Beach had a historic and well-earned place on the WSL tour.

“There are so many massive moments in our sport that have happened here. Everything’s always going on here; there’s always something special about this event.”

She also paid tribute to Mick Fanning, who will be surfing here in his last WSL Championship event.

“I just love the human that he is; he is such a good human, he has done so much for me and my family. What he’s done in his career and the challenges he’s faced is incredible,” she said.

“I think this is his way to send him off, I think this is so Mick. It’s so special – he said that it started here and it will finish here.”