2012 stands as one of the most exciting world title races in recent history. But as Joel Parkinson, Kelly Slater and all the other players are acutely aware, 2013 could be even better.

Parko spent most of 2012 finishing runner-up in contests, but it was enough to put him in control of his destiny. A win at the Pipe Masters broke the curse of second place and earned him his first title.

Finishing third in the world and falling out of the world title race didn't sit well with the two-time world champ. His coach Andy King claims he's coming into this year in never-before-seen form. It'll be game on at Snapper.

The question everybody is asking this year: Will John John win the world title? Time will tell, but it's safe to say if it doesn't come this year, it'll come soon.

The ever-creative Gabriel Medina proved to everybody he can win heats in any and all conditions. He wants more than anything to be Brazil's first world champ. That may come sooner rather than later.

The poster child for Nike now has a Hurley sticker on his board. Will that affect him? Probably not. And with Gabriel Medina and John John Florence getting all the hype, he has a little fire in his belly to blow up.

Last year ol' Clifton James turned things around, going from 31st in the ranking to 13th. He surfed in 13 more heats and averaged two more points per heat.

Chasing beautiful women and shooting movies in hi-def, Jordy Smith was distracted last year. He'll be back in the mix this year, full-rail gouge and all.

Andino didn't made much noise this past offseason ... because he's been surfing. He continues to add strength and power to his surfing. His rookie experiences treated him well. 2013 will be a big year for him.

2012 was a bit dodgy for Owen Wright, but a win at the Breaka Burleigh Pro has him back on track this year.

At 17 years old, Filipe Toledo is the youngest surfer on tour. The rookie is one of a handful of emerging talents from Brazil, and while it may take him awhile to adjust, the skill and hunger are there.

Seabass wasn't even considered a potential qualifier for the tour before the Triple Crown. Then he came out of nowhere and road off into the sunset on a Harley.

We're still not entirely sure how Glenn "Micro" Hall qualified for the world tour, but good for him. The first Irishman on tour, he brings the dark horse, wild-card factor that will make things interesting. Watch out for him at Bells.

Coming back from a busted ankle and bleak showing in 2012, Maui's Dusty Payne looks to hit the water with fire in his belly and some newfound motivation. 2013 could be his breakout year.

It's good to have a kid from Santa Cruz back on tour. For all the talent up north, it's often struggled to translate to competitive success. Young is well-prepared for his rookie year, and he has a great fan base to draw from.