Johanne Defay is ready to defend her title at the Outerknown 2017 Fiji Pro Women Surfing Championship at Cloudbreak, Tavarua Island.

The French national from Reunion Islands knows the challenge will be tough.

“Having to compete in this competition is very special. I am from the island and staying here really makes me feel at home,” she said.

“It’s a new year, a new ranking, new event, new people and everything is new so it’s just going to be tougher than last year. But I will just take it step by step.

“I am so lucky and fortunate to be here with the 17 girls.”

This is her fourth time to participate as she finished in fifth spot on debut four years ago.

United States’ Bethany Hamilton-Dirks, who lost her left arm during a shark attack in 2003, is also ready for the event.

“It’s so amazing to be back, last year was an incredible one for me so I am so happy to be back. It will be super fun this week,” she said.

“Looking at the forecast I need to be focused and be patient. I would love to make the finals and win it so I’ll see how it goes.

“I am happy to be competing with all this amazing girls so it will be cool to be in the water together,” she concluded.