"I was building confidence through each heat," said Ezekiel Lau after his win at Sunset. "It seemed like things were going in my favor and I was just getting the waves I needed at the right time."

The final of the World Cup was no different with Brazilian Raoni Monteiro leading for the bulk of the heat. Then, with about five minutes remaining, Lau stuck a one-two combo, both waves were keepers and they left Monteiro needing an excellent score. The hooter sounded before it came and Lau hit the beach four foot taller and $40,000 richer.

"I needed something to boost my confidence a little, this year has been kind of rough. My whole confidence and my whole game plan is going to be that much much better year next year."

After a second at the World Juniors and now a first place at the World Cup of Surfing, Ezekiel Lau's stocks are rising.

All photo ASP/Cestari, Kirstin.