Brett Simpson surfs regularly along the south side of the pier, often times getting recognized by the locals and surf enthusiasts.

Thursday morning’s outcome was no different — just another step toward his goal.

With a score of 13.17, Huntington Beach’s Simpson took first place in the first heat of the U.S. Open of Surfing’s round of 48.

“It’s definitely a different waves than a lot of waves on tour,” said Simpson, who finished third place in the 2008 U.S. Open. “It’s comfortable; you kind of know what you’re going to get. I’ve definitely seen it bigger out here than most of the guys on tour.”

After catching seven waves in the heat, Simpson only expects the swell to improve as the competition progresses.

He returns Friday morning (8 a.m.) in the round of 24.

“I felt good. The waves seemed like they’re getting a little bit better ever week. I just tried to focus on what I had to do and not the other competitors. I just have to find the waves the fit me.”

Later this afternoon, Simpson will be honored as the OC Surfer of The Year, as voted on by readers on ocregister.com.

“It’s huge. I just think Orange County, there’s a lot of great surfers out there. For me, it’s like the epicenter of surf. It’s something I look forward to every year. It’s my goal to hold down where I live.”

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