Points error reopens surfing title race

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Kelly Slater lost his 2011 season crown, at least temporarily, after the Association of Surfing Professionals said Friday it had made an error in the standings.

The veteran American had seemingly clinched his 11th ASP World Title Tuesday after the third round of the Rip Curl Pro Search San Francisco, but tour officials announced that due to a calculation error the championship was still undecided.

Slater could officially clinch the crown by winning one of his two remaining heats at San Francisco's Ocean Beach. Heats Friday were called off due to poor conditions.

If Slater does not win a heat this week, he will have another opportunity to clinch at Hawaii's North Shore in the season finale.

Australian Owen Wright remains Slater's closest challenger.

Tour Manager Renato Hickel said in a written statement that under the complex points system Slater's past seed positions were given too much weight.

"This was a mistake," Hickel said. "We're responsible for this and should be held accountable."