I N T E R N AT I O N A L A F FA I R S
F R E E V
1
9
N
7
July2022
Eli Olson Photo Domenic Mosqueira
Photo: Mike Latronic
WELCOME TO THE TEAM BENJI BRAND
CUSHION REM HI “When I surf I keep things natural and graceful and never try to force anything.” -Coco
Richard “Dick” Brewer October 13, 1936 May 28, 2022 Aloha ‘oe Dick Brewer will certainly go down in history as the greatest surfboard designer ever to live. Gerry Lopez Richard was a gifted man with a big kind heart. He was the Picasso of surfboard shaping. He wasn’t necessarily interested in the business side of shaping surfboards but more concerned at shaping you the ride of your life. Thank you for making me whom I’ve become. Forever love. Darrick Doerner While a 9’6” gun is perfect for some big waves, we found it not quite right for Peahi (Jaws). It was 1993. Doerner took Laird to see Dick and described the problems. Dick replied “Come back in an hour”. Suddenly, there it was, a 7’4” x 16” wide board specialized for tow in. Dick had done it again. He will go down as the most innovative board designer of all time. Buzzy Kerbox We started to do the impossible. Dick’s influence on surfers is that he made boards for going fast. It was all about speed (In reference to riding the “millennium wave” at Teahupoo). Laird Hamilton Dick was a good friend, we worked together for fifty years and I learned a lot from him. He sure knew how to make a surfboard! As good as it gets! We will all miss him. RIP Richard, Aloha, Jack Reeves Dick was always one of the strongest driving forces in making change happen. No one can steal that tribute away from him. Pat Rawson You made the fastest and most efficient surfboards. You nailed it with precision timing; allowed us to probe deeper on and in the waves. I am so grateful to have embraced your image with a flower lei logo. You made it globally known. Thank you. Love you! Jericho Poppler The master, the mystic and the legend, but also my friend.…. and Dick’s templates, absolute perfection! No machine could replicate his intuitive understanding in regard to the flow path of curvature. a hui hou RB, it has been an honor. Steve Morgan
The Hanalei Gun Limited Edition A Tribute to Dick Brewer In 1967 Dick Brewer created what was known as the “Mini Gun” a board that would entirely change the nature of surfing. Using aerodynamic principles, this single surfboard concept would be replicated by every credible shaper globally and give Dick title as the innovator of the modern surfboard. Dick’s advances of surfboard design continued into every generation. From the development of multi fin surfboards to the towin boards of Teahupoo, Dick’s fingerprints can be found among every development made in surfboard design over the last 60 years. The Hanalei Gun The creation of the original “Hanalei Gun” dates back to 1986, when Dick Brewer and Steve Morgan were working together on the island of Kauai. The design was later modified by the two in 2017. The concept of Hanalei Gun was about big wave versatility, offering down the line speed as well as having the ability to turn and track on large open faced waves. This tribute model is a limited edition of 15 black boards, hand shaped by Steve Morgan and signed by Dick Brewer and Steve Morgan. The insignia on the board will be the original Dick Brewer Surfboards logo created in 1968 by Jericho Poppler. 100% of the profits from this collector’s model will go directly towards the final production costs for the upcoming documentary film on Dick Brewer. All boards are 9’0” x 20.5” x 3.125” Available at Surfboard Factory Hawaii
Scan to Order!
www.surfboardfactoryhawaii.com/brewer-morgan-hanalei-gun-le Photo Credit: David Darling (Top 1, 2 and Bottom 2, 4), Erik Aeder (Top 3)
F R E E
P A R K I N G
Barrel hound Jamie O’Brien puts his Pipeline tube skills to use, mid-summer at the south shore answer to the Banzai - Ala Moana Bowls. Photo - Bruno Lemos
Editorial Publisher Mike Latronic
Contributing Writers Aukai Ng, Rebecca Brenes, Rebecca Parsons
Editor Andrew Oliver
Contributing Photographers Alex Heil, Dooma Photos, Dayanidhi Das, Kurt Steinmetz, Mike Ito, Nick Gruen, Ryan Miller, Tommy Pierucki, Eric Baeseman, Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Christa Funk, Sarah Lee, Sean Evans, Tai Vandyke
Photo Director Brian Bielmann Art Director John Weaver Business Administration Cora Sanchez (808) 638-7395 West Coast Distribution & Sales Chuck Hendsch (619) 227-9128 Wholesale Inquiries & Hawai‘i Distribution (808) 638-7395 One-way correspondence can be sent to P.O. Box 1161, Hale‘iwa, HI 96712 E-mail editorial inquiries to info@freesurfmagazine.com A product of Manulele, Inc. 2022
Staff Shooters Brent Bielmann, Mike Latronic, Aukai Ng, Andrew Oliver, John Weaver
FREESURF MAGAZINE is distributed at all most fine surf shops and select specialty stores throughout Hawai‘i, Southern California, and the East Coast. Subscribe at freesurfmagazine.com Other than “Free Postage” letters, we do not accept unsolicited editorial submissions without first establishing contact with the editor. FreeSurf, Manulele Inc. and its associates are not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged submissions or their return.
FEATURING
Tavana & Mike Love
Brought to you by
Scan code for an
Exclusive Jam Session
C O N T E N T S O F TA B L E
12
Free Parking
20
Editor's Note
22
Local Motion's Surf Into Summer
28
International Affairs
52
News & Events
62
Industry Notes
66
Last Look
TORREY MEISTER
AVA I L A B L E AT T H E S E PA RT I C I PAT I N G R E TA I L E R S : H I C – T & C S U R F S H O P – D E J AV U S U R F – H I -T E C H S P O RT S – S U R F N S E A – O S H I M A S U R F – L O C A L M O T I O N O’NEILL INC . 2022 | US .ONEILL .COM
F E A T U R E S
22 Maldives
Local Motion Surf Into Summer
28
Pacifc Islands
International Affairs
Indo
and more! Handpicked surf adventures since 1997
52
Reservation Specialist
Sean Walker sean@worldsurfaris.com (877) 617-1328 News & Events
www.worldsurfaris.com
Kainehe Hunt Photos: Latronic/Freesurf
Mojo Model by Kerry Tokoro: 6’1” X 19.19” X 2.39” Ala Moana Center - Street Level 1, Ewa Wing & Level 3, Diamond Head Wing
www.hicsurf.com
E D I T O R ' S
N O T E
Destination Victory By Andrew Oliver
Nothing sparks excitement quite like hitting the road. As surfers we crave the unknown - new experiences, new waves, and new locales. Among many other things, the pandemic sidelined the majority of us from doing what comes naturally, as it's safe to say, we are a migratory species. Adventure is in our DNA. With travel open to most places again, that pent up desire to explore is finally being fulfilled.
C
That urge to engage in new challenges comes early in our journeys as surfers. Reflecting on those early experiences is a reminder that adventures do not always require an intercontinental flight. For the young contestants at the T&C Surf Grom Contest (pg 52), adventure starts much closer to home. It’s worth noting, these groms aren’t just experiencing a surf contest for the first time, they are being introduced to a wider surf community and potential lifelong friends - partners in future adventures to be had. Pals that will be with them as they graduate to bigger local events like the Local Motion Surf Into Summer (pg 22), who will push one another to their greatest heights, to bring home the Gold Medal to Hawai’i one day, as the young “ambassadors of aloha” just did at the ISA World Championships in El Salvador (pg 56).
ompetitive triumph is by no means the only measure of a journey’s success. Competition is one of the myriad paths we can take as surfers. Sometimes the events are the means to a greater end. The world's best surfers climb the competitive ranks in hopes of making it to the “Dream Tour,” but many of the greatest moments, the actual “dream,” as illustrated by the incredible free surf experiences in our main feature International Affairs (pg 28), are had outside of the confines of the official events.
When we venture into the unknown and challenge the boundaries of our comfort zones, we deepen our experience and hopefully grow into better versions of ourselves. The age old mantra of “focus on the journey not the destination” holds true. Victory can be had every step, or wave, along the way.
20
SURF SP CH
198
IH
EST
YEARS
I
S ORT
HI-TE
40
2 · M AU
808-877-2111 || @hitechsurf
HAYLEE & SHIA
BOVERMAN
PHOTOS: DAYANIDHI
2022 LOCAL MOTION SURF INTO SUMMER PRESENTED BY RVCA Photos Mike Latronic, Aukai Ng & Rebecca Brenes
Local Motion crew
Kai Martin
Greg Nakamura
Local Motion's Surf into Summer made a triumphant return to Ala Moana Bowls after being canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. Nearly 200 seasoned amateurs and competitive weekend surfers from around the island came to compete in the event, and their families and friends came to support them. The contest was held at Magic Island, and people enjoyed playing yard games and talking story while they watched the surfers. It was a great event for everyone involved, and it was wonderful to see it return after such a long time away. The event was graced with sunny skies each day, but the surf struggled to fill in consistently. Perfect summer conditionsalbeit small, inconsistent swell- provided a fun yet, challenging playing field for the contestants. With waves ranging from waist to chest high, athletes made the most of what they got, demonstrating adaptability by having to adjust to underwhelming conditions.
The contest may have been held in challenging conditions, but that didn't stop the surfers from putting on an impressive show. Both the men's and women's shortboarding divisions saw some excellent surfing, with many surfers finding high-scoring opportunities through their wave selection and skillful board work. The waves were small, but the surfers who were able to make the most of them really stood out. It was great to see such creative and committed surfing across each division.
KEANU ASING
A LA M OAN A C E N TE R | KOKO M A R I NA HYAT T R E G E N CY WA IKIKI
|
|
WINDWARD M AL L
L A HAINA GATEWAY
|
|
WAIKEL E CENTER
HUNTINGTON B EACH, CA
“SURFING WITH ALOHA SINCE 1977”
Mateos Santos
Gavin Fulmer
Chet Moleta
Pasiance Kalei
Hawaii Junior Surf Team Competitor, Kai Martin, believes that smaller waves can be harder to surf well, compared to bigger ones. Despite the challenge, he was able to place first in the Jr.’s Shortboarding division. Following him in second place, was fellow Hawaii Junior Surf teammate, Shion Crawford.
Dylan Jarusz
Naturally, the longboarders took more favorably to the smaller waves, styling along the face and dancing gracefully to the nose. The division saw some amazing nose rides and it was great to see how they made the most of the smaller waves. It just goes to show that you don't need big waves to have a good time surfing. Sometimes, it's all about making the most of what you have and enjoying the ride. In the end, it was Daniel Uchimura and Pasiance Kalei who took home first in the men’s and women’s longboarding divisions, respectively.
Luke Tema
24
Men's Open Longboard
Masters SB 25-34
Senior SB 35-+
HAND-CRAFTED ALOHA IN EVERY CUP®
Women's Open Longboard
3 WAIKIKI LOCATIONS! Kai Coffee Hawaii at Alohilani Resort 2490 Kalakaua Ave, Suite #131 Honolulu, Hawaii 96815 (808) 926-1131 Hours: 6:00AM - 5:00PM HST (UTC-10), 7 days a week
Kai Coffee Hawaii Lobby Bar at Alohilani Resort Hours: 6:00AM-11:00AM HST, 7 days a week
Kai Coffee Hawaii Hyatt Regency Waikiki 2424 Kalakaua Avenue, #130 Honolulu, Hawaii 96815 (808) 923-1700 Hours: 6:00AM - 5:00PM HST (UTC-10), 7 days a week
kaicoffeehawaii.com
Commentator, Ryley Snyder, says “It’s so good to be back. It’s crazy to see how much the kids have progressed. There’s been a lot of time out of the water, out of the competition season, and you can tell the kids are so hungry for it… The Local Motion Surf into Summer contest means a lot after a couple of years. It’s just a great camaraderie. Kinda sets the tone for, you know, who’s been putting in the time, who’s been progressing. And it just kinda sets the stage for who’s looking good going into the summer.” It was an amazing sight to see everyone back together for this event. Magic Island was abuzz with activity as friends and family gathered to show support for the competitors and enjoy quality time together. The atmosphere was electric as friends and family cheered on the competitors. Well done to everyone who took part, and thank you to everyone who came out to support them! The event was a great success, and it was wonderful to see everyone enjoying themselves. And a special thank you to Local Motion for making this event possible, we can’t wait to do it again next year!
Mahalo for Drinking Responsibly. ©2021 Kona Brewing Hawaii Photo: Mike Latronic
Catch aWave! Big Wave is a lighter-bodied golden ale with a tropical hop aroma and flavor—smooth, easy drinking, and refreshing. The use of caramel malt contributes to the golden hue of this beer, and our special blend of hops provides a bright, quenching finish that makes it a struggle to not grab another one.
Kona Pub & Brewery 74-5612 Pawai Place, Kailua-Kona @KonaBrewPub 808-334-2739
Kona Brewing HawaiiKai 7192 Kalaniana’ole Highway, Honolulu @KonaBrewingHawaiiKai 808-396-5662
A P E R T U R E
INTER NATIONAL A F F A I R S
By Andrew Oliver
With the abundance of waves in proximity to the last few stops of the WSL, the free surf sessions of the last few months have been going full-tilt. Here are some of the latest dispatches from the southern hemisphere.
There are some waves that carry a heavy reputation. The Box, in Margaret River, Western Australia is one such wave. It's an all or nothing spot. There are no easy rides. Luckily Barron Mamiya is a surfer who carries a heavy rep himself - one of the best in the biz when it comes to waves of extreme consequence. Here’s Mamiya unfazed during his maiden session at the box. Photo - Ari Wolfl
West Australia
Griffin Colapinto Photo Ari Wofl
West Australia has long been a favorite destination for the top performers on the World Tour. While Main Break - the location of the CT - is slightly outdated, it’s the abundance and variety of nearby waves, the unspoiled coastline, and relative lack of crowds that have gained the adoration of surfing’s most seasoned globetrotters. Jordy Smith
All Photos - Ryan Miller João Vitor Chianca
Josh Moniz
BELLS
It’s no secret that the freesurf sessions around major surf events can be crowded, ultra-competitive, nightmares. When dozens of the world's fiercest competitors descend on a break things can get tense. Seasoned vets like Stephanie Gilmore know how to find moments of serenity in the midst of a chaotic event window. Gilmore, pictured here, with an early morning carve in the Bell’s Bowl.
Jack Robinson
All Photos - Ryan Miller
Griffin Colapinto
32
GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast has become equally known for its notorious crowds as it is for its world class waves. For living local legend Mick Fanning, (pictured top-right) there are no crowds. For a visiting Josh Moniz, (pictured bottom-right), he has more than enough wherewithal to navigate a crowded lineup to find an empty canvas to himself. Photos - Andrew Shield
Tahiti Teahupoo has the well-earned reputation, along with a few other epicenters of gnar around the globe, of being a barometer of what is rideable. Local Matahi Drollet is at the forefront of pushing the boundary of what's possible at the end of the road. Photo - Domenic Mosqueira
Connor O'Leary
Barron Mamiya
G-Land
There has been much ado about the return of the Championship Tour to the jungle and reef of G-land. Originally held in the 90’s, the event was a major departure from the World Tour norm of running comps in sub-par waves in proximity to the crowds of major metropolises. The resulting G-land experience was more aligned to what world tour surfers did in between events - hunting world class waves in feral fashion. While some of the ferality has been removed, this year's event was heavy in nostalgia, including an all-camp rager, a near nightly staple of the tour of yesteryear. While the retro vibes were running high, the performances were nothing but throwbacks. Photos - Ryan Miller
Ethan Ewing
Bali One of the most exciting things about the southern hemisphere leg of the tour is the ample opportunities it provides for side trips to freesurf meccas - like Bali. For most, this was a first return after several years of Covid lockdown. Barron Mamiya digs into this long awaited Keramas blast. Photos - Pete Frieden
The last time the CT held an event in Indonesia was in 2019 at arguably one of the most high-performance waves on the planet - Keramas. Needless to say, performance levels were through the roof. And, it was Kanoa Igarashi who came out on top, taking his maiden win on the elite tour. Igarashi spares the sentimentality and destroys this Keramas lip. Photo - Ryan Miller
42
Desert Point Desert Point is a wave of mythical status, one of the shallowest and fastest left barrels in all of the Indonesian archipelago. So, introducing two of the planets most talented goofyfoots to it was an occasion worth noting. Gabriel Medina and Yago Dora (pictured here) did a quick layover at Deserts and the results were worth the detour. Spread Photo - Pete Frieden, Inset Photos - Oliver, Keoki
Like taking a sports car to an empty stretch of road, Gabriel Medina (above) and Yago Dora (below) revel in the opportunity to ride a wave that can match their lightning fast and explosive surfing. Photos - Pete Frieden
46
D
espite growing up in landlocked Colorado, Nora Liotta was always destined for a life at sea. Liotta’s parents both began surfing as teens and the pair met while surfing in Santa Cruz, California. Liotta’s dad was an avid surfer and ocean lover and he wanted his kids to be surfers—he dreamed of the day he’d be able to relocate his family to a coastal town. In 2015, his dream finally came true, and the family made the move to Maui. As soon as they stepped off the plane, the Liotta family felt at home. Once they cleared customs, the Liotta’s made their way to the beach and quickly became regulars at their local beaches and lineup.
WAHINE
NORA LIOTTA By Rebecca Parsons Nora Liotta Photo Mike Latronic
Although Liotta had tried surfing a few times on family trips to California, it wasn’t until her family made the move to the Aloha State that she was truly able to immerse herself in the sport. She was ten years old when she first took up surfing but despite her young age, Liotta often felt behind when she compared herself to the other girls that had grown up surfing on Maui. “Nothing beats experience with competitive surfing,” says Liotta. “A lot of girls grew up surfing and competing since they could barely stand on a surfboard. I felt a little bit behind but that motivated me to work even harder to keep up with them and try to eventually surf against them at the same level.” When she was eleven, Liotta entered her first surf contest: Ian Walsh’s Menehune Mayhem at Ho’okipa Beach Park. Despite her nerves and lack of experience, Liotta took home a secondplace finish at the contest. Her results validated her hard work and inspired her to give competitive surfing a go.
Now, at age 18, Liotta has numerous contests under her belt and is more fired up than ever on competitive surfing. Her best results to date are 2nd place at the Papara Pro Junior Tahiti, 1st at Rip Curl’s Grom 2021 in Florida, and 4th at the 2021 US Surfing Championships at Lower Trestles. “The [contest] that I’m most proud of is not a contest that I won but it was a contest that I felt I really proved my surfing and was able to showcase what I can do,” says Liotta of her 4th place finish at the US Surfing Championship. “I wasn’t really excited about my performance in the final but all of the heats leading up to it I was really proud of myself.” Liotta has big goals backed with plans to make them happen. She has her sights set on qualifying for the CT and hopes to someday win a world title. In May, she’s heading to Australia to compete in the Challenger Series and begin to put her plan into motion.
Skylar Lickle Redbull Magnitude Big Wave Best Performer 2022
Photo: Rachael Zimmerman
@MAUIGIRLSWIMWEAR
N
ever afraid to put in the work, Liotta adheres to a rigorous training routine in hopes of seeing her dreams come to fruition. She’s homeschooled, which allows her to surf as frequently as possible, twice a day if the conditions allow. She also works out two to three days a week at Deep Relief, a surfer-based gym in Haiku. On top of surfing and going to the gym, the teen regularly road bikes and has been getting into running. Although Liotta values nutrition, she doesn’t adhere any particular diet. She does, however, prioritize eating clean, whole foods and her mom is a private chef, so eating well isn’t a challenge in her home. Liotta lives in Haiku, Maui, a ten-minute drive from her favorite surf spot: Ho’okipa. Ho’okipa is home to three breaks and is the main surf spot on the north shore of Maui, so the surf community is a strong one. “Compared to other places like the North Shore of Oahu, [Maui] is tough because we don’t have as many waves,” says Liotta. “But we don’t have as many people and although we don’t have perfect conditions, when we do get those good days, you’re so much more stoked. I really love Maui.” Although Maui frequently offers challenging conditions, Liotta credits those same conditions to making her a better surfer.
“I believe if you can surf bad waves well, then you can surf anywhere well,” says Liotta. “But we also have special waves like Honolua Bay, Lahaina Harbor, and Ho’okipa—when Honolua Bay gets good, it’s one of the best waves in the world.” Liotta is grateful to have grown up in a tight knit surf community where she sees the same faces in the lineup every day. Maui is home to many talented surfers and when Liotta is working on a new skill, she regularly asks people in the lineup for advice and tips—her local ohana has helped shape her into the talented surfer that she is today. Although Liotta doesn’t think her style is comparable to any of the women on tour, she is a big fan of Stephanie Gilmore and admires the Aussie’s smooth, powerful style. At home, Liotta has a lot of female surfers to look up to, but she particularly admires Paige Alms. She thinks Alms is an incredible surfer and athlete and regards the big wave surfer as one of the best female surfers on Maui. In addition to qualifying for the CT, another big goal of Liotta’s has always been to be a part of the Hawaii surf team. This year, Nora’s dream is coming to life and she will proudly surf for Team Hawaii at the ISA world junior championships in El Salvador. “Surfing’s not a team sport—it’s a single person sport and it’s kind of every man for himself,” says Nora. “I’ve always wanted to experience surfing as a team, especially for Team Hawaii because I think Hawaii has some of the greatest surfing athletes in the world. I’m so excited and very proud to represent Team Hawaii.”
Nora Liotta Photo Noodle
HELPING YOU BUILD WEALTH THROUGH REAL ESTATE
KARIN MOODY
Realtor, Owner, Principle Broker RB-19578
808.392.7410
MEME MOODY
Realtor, Broker-In-Charge RB-22780
808.741.3835
NOEL MARCHAN Realtor-Associate RS-73977
808.282.0949
MICHAEL PIEKLO Realtor-Associate RS-79930
808.551.6740
Let us share our local knowledge with you! Servicing all of Oahu, specializing in North Shore properties. Stop by our office at the Haleiwa Store Lots for a free market analysis, and meet our North Shore Real Estate Experts. Call ahead for reserved parking!
TRISH KIM
Realtor-Associate RS-80643
808.221.4200
JUSTIN CENTEIO Realtor-Associate RS-82219
808.220.4685
ALEKSANDRA MARTINS Realtor-Associate RS-79671
NATHAN AMATORE Realtor-Associate RS-83694
KRISTIN SALCIDO Realtor-Associate RS-82739
808.979.5611 808.780.2381 808.692.6751
BETTERHAWAII.COM 808-637-1500 | HALEIWA STORE LOTS 66-111 KAMEHAMEHA HWY., UNIT #902, HALEIWA, HI 96712 ©2022 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty North Shore. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. An Independently Owned and Operated Franchise. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty North Shore are affiliates of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty.
N E W S
&
E V E N T S
T&C Surf Grom Contest Photos Mike Latronic, Tony Heff, Aukai Ng and Rebecca Brenes After three long years, the T&C Surf Grom contest has returned to Queens, Waikiki, where a multitude of young Oahu surfers came out to compete in fun summer waves and win spectacular prizes. Entering this contest is an incredibly special opportunity for these kids to surf one of the most famous surf breaks in Hawai’i, with only five other surfers out in the line-up. T&C always does a great job of putting on an enjoyable event and making sure the kids are safe in the water, well fed, and overall, having fun. With over ten divisions ranging from boys and girls longboard to bodyboarding, everyone got their share of great swell. The fun-sized, 1-2 foot surf and occasional 3-foot sets were perfect for everyone. However, a bit of inconsistency challenged the kids, teaching them the process of waiting patiently for waves in a high-pressure competition setting. Once the sets did come, these kids had no problem sending it down the line. All types of maneuvers were showcased, from cutbacks to nose riding, and even some little barrels. There was no question about the talent of these kids.
n a c i x e M t s e B s ’ Ha waii
Restaurant & Margarita Bar Finn McGill Photo: Latronic/Freesurf
Located in the North Shore Marketplace 66250 Kamehameha Highway Haleiwa, Hawaii 96712
808-637-3059 www.CHOLOS.mx
Authentic Mexican Favorites
Island Fresh Fish Tacos Refreshing Margaritas Open Everyday 10:30 am - 9:00 pm Happy Hour: 4-6 pm M-F - Food & Drink Specials
Dine-in or Take-out! Muchos Mahalos to all our loyal customers for your patronage!
T & C
S U R F
G R O M
Some of the parents got in on the action in fan favorite divisions, Kokua, and Freesurf Quality Time. T&C’s Rider and Big Wave World Champion, Billy Kemper, shared waves with his two sons in fun conditions. And Pipeline charger and Waikiki local, Eala Stewart, gave his take on his young one surfing. “It’s actually more of a thrill watching my kid, to be honest. Just seeing their stoke in the water just brings me back to their age and going through that process of growing up as a kid from Waikiki and doing your steps of surfing different waves that we have in Hawai'i. The whole process is what matters, the journey.”
F E S T
It truly is amazing how after all these years since the first Surf Grom Contest, T&C is still able to put on a wonderful family affair. The heat of competition and the excitement of being out in the Waikiki surf is what always brings the families back. “Craig Sugihara started this company in 1971, all about stoke and being in the water,” said T&C Ambassador, Adam Borello. “Lot has changed since then, but one thing hasn’t and that’s the amount of fun you can have when you’re out in the water.” There was no lack of fun at all this last weekend. Every grom performed their hearts out and made everyone on the beach proud. We can’t wait for next year's T&C Surf Grom Contest, hoping it’s better than the last.
54
Your Kailua Surf Shop
Cruz Lemes
Gnarwall Surf Shop 315 Uluniu St, Kailua, HI 96734 (808) 492-1000 kailuasurfshop.com
N E W S
&
E V E N T S
Team Hawaii Wins Surf City El Salvador ISA World Junior Championship Australia earns Silver Medal, USA Bronze, and France Copper Eweleiula Wong and Luke Swanson sweep U-18 for Hawaii Erin Brooks wins Girls U-16 Gold, first Junior medal for Canada Willis Droomer wins Boys U-16 Gold for Australia Clements (AUS, Copper) were unable to find the form that saw them through the rest of the competition.
Surf City, El Salvador – June 5th 2022 Nine incredible days of non-stop action in Surf City, El Salvador, featuring a record 419 athletes and 45 national teams, culminated with Hawaii securing themselves an impressive lead to win their first Team Gold since 2014. It is the fourth time Hawaii has claimed this honor.
“I knew these guys were so good that it would take all my effort and the best of my surfing,” Swanson said. “I just can’t believe I won. It was my goal, I wrote it down, but the fact that I actually achieved that, I don’t know what to say. I guess it’s just a testament to believing in yourself.”
Team Hawaii, the 2019 Silver Medalists, found their way back to Gold on the back of a highly impressive squad, who claimed four individual medals. Australia followed up with Silver, USA won Bronze, and France collected Copper.
It was almost a foregone conclusion that Erin Brooks (CAN) would find herself draped in Gold. Despite little competitive
Hawaii Surf Team Photo ISA / Mike Rodriguez
After an emotional loss in Main Round 3, Eweleiula Wong had to fight her way through seven heats of repechage to find herself atop the Girls U-18 podium. The Hawaiian was mostly uncontested in the Final, a huge forehand gouge gaining her a lead that proved impossible for Lucia Machado (ESP, Silver), Hina-Maria Conradi (FRA, Bronze), or defending Silver Medalist Zoe Benedetto (USA, Copper) to catch up with.
experience, the 14-year-old looked unstoppable all week in the Girls U-16 division. Bella Kenworthy (USA, Silver) started the Final well, opening with a 7.17 and backing it up with a 7.57, however it was no match for the critical progression of the Canadian. Looking to the rights of La Bocana for the first time in the competition, Brooks unleashed a series of under-the-lip hooks for an 8.60, before switching back to the left and allowing her forehand to garner an 8.17. Mirai Ikeda (JPN, Bronze) and 11-year-old Tya Zebrowski (FRA, Copper) mounted impressive campaigns but found themselves outside of the conversation as the Final progressed.
“I feel like all my hard work has paid off,” Wong said. “I think it all goes to Team Hawaii coaches, Shane Dorian and Chris Martin.” It was a much closer affair in the Boys U-18 Final, with two Hawaiians battling it out. Luke Swanson (HAW) finally found the air sections he’d been hoping for all week, taking Gold on the strength of two backhand tail-high air reverses, while fellow Shion Crawford (HAW, Silver) was hot on his heels with exceptional railwork. Luke Thompson (RSA, Bronze) and Kobi
“All of the coaches were telling me that no matter what I was getting the first Canadian medal,” Brooks said. “But I wanted to get Gold.”
56
Congratulations
on bringing home a Gold Medal – your team’s 4th one so far!
Hoʻokipa i ka home, we are so proud of you!
Moku Rider: Po'i Tomas Photo: Tommy Peruiki
RENTALS • LESSONS • SALES Now four convenient locations... Waikiki, Hale’iwa, Long Beach NY, Playa Jobos, Isabela, PR
www.mokuhawaii.surf
Throughout the entire event Hans Odriozola (ESP, Copper) appeared to be the surfer to beat in Boys U-16. It was no different as the Final got underway and Odriozola quickly put two scores on the board for the lead. Willis Droomer (AUS, Gold) turned a forehand three-turn combo into a 7.83, while a single air drop out of a big forehand crack resulted in a 7.27 for Inigo Madina (FRA, Silver). Luke Tema (HAW, Bronze) found mid-range 6’s but was unable to truly unleash. As the Final progressed Odriozola looked entirely out of sorts and Droomer closed it out with a 7.67 and the win. “It’s the best event I’ve ever been to and I’m just so happy to bring Gold home not only for myself but for Australia and the Irukandjis.” Droomer siad. “It’s a big name to live up to and a lot of pressure, but I’m stoked to come out on top.”
Results Team ranking:
Eweleiula Wong Photo ISA / Mike Rodriguez
Gold – Hawaii Silver – Australia Bronze – USA Copper – France 5 – Spain 6 – Japan 7 – Brazil 8 – Portugal 9 – Canada 10 – South Africa Boys U-16: Gold – Willis Droomer Silver – Inigo Madina Bronze – Luke Tema Copper – Hans Odriozola Girls U-16:
Luke Swanson Photo ISA / Jerrson Barboza
Gold – Erin Brooks Silver – Bella Kenworthy Bronze – Mirai Ikeda Copper – Tya Zebrowski Boys U-18: Gold – Luke Swanson Silver – Shion Crawford Bronze – Luke Thompson Copper – Kobi Clements Girls U-18: Gold – Eweleiula Wong Silver – Lucia Machado Bronze – Hina-Maria Conradi Copper – Zoe Benedetto
FOR THE LONG RIDE... FIND RAINBOW® SANDALS AT THESE RETAILERS SURF N SEA, HAWAII SURF AND SAIL, BARNFIELDS RAGING ISLE, POIPU SURF, BACKDOOR SURF, FUNCTION SURF, FLIP FLOP SHOPS WAIKIKI INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE, ALOHA BOARD SHOP, LAHAINA SUNGLASS CO, ALOHA EXCHANGE, ISLAND HEMP & COTTON CO, ADVENTURE SPORTS MAUI. PATAGONIA HALEIWA, PATAGONIA HONOLULU, BILLABONG HANALEI,FLIP FLOP SHOPS KAUAI, KAI ALOHA, WORLD CORE AND KIHEI PARADISE.
W W W. R A I N B O W S A N D A L S . C O M
PROJECT BLACK BEAUTY- A TRIBUTE TO DICK BREWER
Join & Support Surfrider Foundation
By Surf Journalist Corky Summers Just weeks ago, surf maestro Dick Brewer signed his world renowned name on the fifteenth and final board of this special series. He caressed the board with a gentle, sweeping motion. The stoke of the stroke confirmed his expectation of perfection. His knowledge of aerodynamics and his unequaled ascetic gift would tolerate nothing less. But everything was out of sequence for him and Dick Brewer could not have completed this project without the help of his long-time protege, friend, and partner, Steve Morgan. How this came to be: Steve, devastated by his mentor’s diagnosis of Leukemia, offered to donate a few boards to Dick’s wife, Sherry, to help fund and expedite the production of the upcoming Dick Brewer documentary. He said “I wanted to contribute in a meaningful way and I wanted to help with the hope that Dick Brewer would have the opportunity to see the film's release. What started out as a small project has grown to be possibly the most significant project of my shaping career.” This limited edition of the "Hanalei Gun" model is a tribute to Dick Brewer. Each board has a serial number and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Dick Brewer and Steve Morgan. Specs: 9.0' x 20.5" x 3.1. Price: $3300 plus tax, packing, and shipping costs. Orders are being accepted now. 100% of profits from these Black Beauties will go to help fund the production costs of the soon-to-be-released documentary about Dick Brewer, the man who reinvented surfing twice. These all-black “Hanalei Guns” are suitable for surfing the biggest surf breaks worldwide. When not in the water, these glossy works of art will steal the scene when being displayed on a wall or hanging from a ceiling.
Calling all coastal protectors! The Surfrider Foundation is a national, grassroots organization aimed at protecting and enjoying our ocean, waves and beaches, for all people, through a powerful activist network. In Hawaiʻi, Surfrider Foundation chapters span four islands (Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island). We work at the community level to ensure the long-term protection of our islands’ coastal and marine resources. Each Chapter is community-based and relies on local volunteers to further our mission of protecting ocean, waves, and beaches. Each Chapter includes a volunteer Executive Committee and a team of core volunteers made up of surfers, beach-goers, paddlers, divers, and those who simply love our ocean and beaches in Hawaiʻi. Our priorities focus on water quality, beach access, beach and surf spot preservation, and sustaining marine and coastal ecosystems. Over the last year, our Hawaiʻi Chapters have engaged in critical campaigns and programs to protect our local ocean, waves, and beaches. In 2021, the Kauaʻi Chapter’s Net Patrol Program removed over 60,000 pounds of plastic pollution off of the island’s coastlines. The Oʻahu Chapter has expanded water quality testing across the island. On Maui, the Chapter celebrated the 10-year long clean water lawsuit centered on the Lahaina Injection Wells, and volunteers have more recently re-started island-wide beach cleanups. None of these efforts would be possible without dedicated volunteers. Hawaiʻi Surfrider Foundation activists come from all different backgrounds. You do not have to be a surfer to take part in your local island chapter. All you need is a passion for protecting our oceans and beaches. To connect with your local Surfrider Foundation Chapter, visit hawaii.surfrider.org/ chapters or email Lauren Blickley, Hawaiʻi Regional Manager, at LBlickley@ surfrider.org.
Mokulele Surf Team Rider
Kai Martin
128 Daily Inter-Island Flights!
The Best Way to Surf More Hawai'i
I N D USTRY NOTES H AWA I I A DA P T I V E SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS
June 7, 2022, marked the beginning of the first-ever Adaptive Surfing Professionals World Championship Tour. The tour began on the South Shore of Hawai’i with the Hawai’i Adaptive Surfing Championships at Queens, Kuhio Beach.
JOHN JOHN F LO R E N C E P U L L S O U T O F E L SA LVA D O R D U E TO I N J U RY
Unfortunately, JJF had to pull out of the event in El Salvador, and most likely Rio, too, due to a torn MCL. We wish him a speedy recovery and can't wait to see him back in the water.
G W M SY D N E Y S U R F PRO
Olympic athletes Teresa Bonvalot (PRT) and Rio Waida (IDN) took home the biggest wins of their careers in the Challenger Series event. While the 2022 Pro Longboard Tour began with a bang with Hawai’i surfer, Honolua Blomfield, and Aussie, Harrison Roach, taking out the season's opening event.
B OT TO M T R AW L I N G BA N N E D
The UK government has announced ambitious plans to recover our seas from damage caused by fishing activity. Starting next year, four Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) will be banned in entirety with regards to the use of bottom trawls and other gear that damages ocean life over certain areas!
Q U I C K S I LV E R / R OX Y P R O G - L A N D R E T U R N S TO G R A JAG A N BAY
ELI OLSON STEPS I N TO T H E C AG E
The young Jiu-Jitsu black belt made his amateur MMA debut on the main card at Trinity Kings 10. Olson came out victorious with a firstround submission. The win was an impressive display of grappling prowess and proves that he is a force to be reckoned with in the cage.
The Quicksilver/Pro G-Land Contest returned to Grajagan Bay this year after a 20year absence. In the end, it was Jack Robinson and Johanne Defay who took home the gold. Impressive performances were also put on by the runner up’s, Felipe Toledo and Carissa Moore. They all showed that even after two decades, the waves at Grajagan Bay are still some of the best in the world.
S O U T H E R N A I RWAYS A N D S U R F A I R TO MERGE
62
The two companies plan to merge and go public on the NASDAQ stock exchange later this year. The company believes the merger will push forward technology and innovation in the airline industry and allow them not only to grow but also to sustain lower costs due to clean technology-powered aircraft!
“ R I D E T H E WAV E ” T R I U M P H S AT CO L D H AWA I I S U R F & F I L M F E S T I VA L P R E S E N T E D BY C A L I F O R N I A WINES
This year, the event screened over 22 Danish and International Surf Films over three nights. "We are very proud for being able to present such an amazing lineup. Watching all those films, was like going for a round-the-world trip. An exciting trip where we experience huge diversity concerning nature, culture, and people. We watched inspirational stories about friendship, love, growing up, family relations, and of course films with pure surf. Please keep on making surf movies and keep on sharing the stoke,” states the festival director Alicja Cupial.
“ H E AV E N I S O N M Y S I D E ” BY M A R CO E S P I R I TO SA N TO
Check out the short film by Marco Espirito Santo portraying big-wave surfer João “Massas” de Macedo and his unique relationship with the monstrous waves of Nazaré. The film was shot on a Super-8 and we love the aesthetic.
Get your G.O.A.T.
808.792.8333 “The danger is not aiming too high, but aiming low and reaching it.” HIautoAccident.com
808-792-8333
BE SUPERHUMAN
MASSAGE THERAPIES ACUPUNCTURE CUPPING THERAPIES FASCIAL STRETCH THERAPY HEALTH COACHING DETOX PROTOCOLS
CRYOTHERAPY INFRARED SAUNA NANOVI™ NORMATEC COMPRESSION THERAPY HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY
Superhuman Health Technologies & Therapies Corner of 1001 Waimanu St. and Cummins St. in Kaka'ako - Honolulu | Tel.: 561-4734 | superhumanhi.com
Surf with a smile
Dr. John
Jones Dentistry
808 955 0058 1441 Kapiolani boulevard suite 907, honolulu, hawaii 96814
Surf wax poured in Venice Beach
Sister Betsy’s Surf Wax Sisterbetsy.com
Meet your trusted local leaders in Hawai’i’s real estate industry. SEAN YANO
JARED MUSSER
RS-61434
RS-83709
808.386.4487
808.497.0503
SEAN.YANO@COMPASS.COM
JARED.MUSSER@COMPASS.COM
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only.
I ND USTRY NOTES
D U K E S O C E A N F E S T I S BAC K AU G U S T 2 0 - 2 8 , 2022!
Held on the shores of Waikiki, the event celebrates Duke Kahanamoku’s life, athletic contributions, and spirit with a variety of lifestyle sports disciplines that represent Duke Kahanamoku’s legacy and the culture of Hawai’i. The festival includes water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swim races, beach volleyball, and so much more. In addition, there are cultural events, live entertainment, and food trucks. The event is free and open to the public, so whether you’re a watersports enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy some of the best that Hawai’i has to offer, Duke’s OceanFest is definitely an event not to be missed!
" D E L A T I E R R A" – A S U R F V I D EO T H AT S U P P O RT S LO C A L S U R F E R S A N D W I L D L I F E CO N S E RVAT I O N I N CO S TA R I C A On the topic of cool surf films, Solid Surfboards will be releasing a video and limited edition boards with art by Costa Rican artist Jean-Paul Fauves. De La Tierra is about the mission that all surfers should have in common: to leave the places we love better than we find them. The film supports local surfers and wildlife conservation in Costa Rica, and proceeds will be donated to Costas Verdes, a reforestation organization.
S H E SAW T H E S E A : A M A R I N E B I O LO G I S T I N SOUTH AFRICA
Kholofelo Sethebe was first drawn to the sea as a child, on a visit to Cape Town from her landlocked home province in South Africa. Despite having never learned to swim, Sethebe's love for the ocean and its creatures persists, driving her to dedicate her life to studying and conserving the world's oceans. In this captivating documentary by Al Jazeera, Sethbe overcomes her fears, daring the open seas to swim with seals.
Photo @kenziestorhaug
Waikiki Beach Gathering The most relaxed church on Earth
@waikikibeachgathering www.wbg.church
Photo @laurainwonderlandd
L A S T
L O O K
Tahitian based photographer Domenic Mosqueira, peering over the edge of oblivion, as Koa Rothman enjoys a breathless moment in the eye of the beast. Photo - Domenic Mosqueira