12.27.2010-Tweed Heads, NSW-4X World Champion Stephanie Gilmore was beaten over the head with an iron bar by a local Tweed Heads man. The intruder forced entry to her apartment building on Monday evening and Gilmore began fending off unprovoked blows that resulted in a fractured wrist, and head wounds including a concussion.
Steph Gilmore’s neighbors responded to a disturbance and helped her to saftey. Dane Napoli and other neighbors chased down and detained the perpetrator. Napoli described as, “Obviously mentally ill, but didn’t appear to be on drugs”.
Police are holding the 26 yr old homeless man without bail, and will stand trial January 10.
The four time ASP world champ is recovering well according to the Australian Herald Sun, and she’s still determined to capture a fifth straight world title.
Steph aims to get back in the water in six weeks, just days before the Roxy Pro- Snapper Rocks on Feb 26, 2011. She won the event in 2010 and 2009.
2010 was a tough year for surfers in Australia after experiencing: a fatal shark attack at Margret River, an unprovoked assault on Dean Morrison, Parko’s injury, and the loss of Andy Irons who was loved all over Australia.
We hope 2011 brings good waves and fortune to our Aussie friends.
Get well Steph.
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