Brown Advances in Huntington Beach Surfing Contest

Willie Brown of Woodland Hills was among the surfers who advanced in the Katin Pro/Am Team competition in Huntington Beach Friday morning. Brown, the winner of last year’s event, qualified for one of the eight semi-main heats which start on Sunday, the final day of the competition.

The event is being held adjacent to the Huntington Beach pier.

Others advancing were Michael Ho (Hawaii), Martin Potter (United Kingdom), Ted Robinson of Manhattan Beach and Shaun Tomson (South Africa).

Ho, the son of entertainer Don Ho, finished second last year.

The top 10 professional finishers will share $18,000, $6,000 of which will go to the winner. Trophies will be awarded to the best teams and the top amateur finishers.

The surfers began competing Wednesday and have completed 56 heats. The quarter-main heats will continue this morning at 7. Admission is free.