POPOYO OUTER REEF “Central America’s Heaviest Wave” Oliver Solis, passion or madness?
NICARAGUA ALAS TOUR CLASSIC Alas Latin Tour 2013 Last Stop
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OLIVER SOLIS, POPOYO OUTER REEF. PHOTO: RObERTO GARcIA/NSR
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Staff / Contents Nica Knowledge 10 - 11 Que pasa in Nica? 14 - 15 Nica Hotspot 24 - 27 Nica Spot Light 28 - 31 Directory 33
Oct - Dec 2013
LESTHER ESPINOZA , PLAYA IGUANA Photo: MIGUEL ESPINOZA
Staff
María Ofelia Medina Adolfo Mejía
César Medina
Marketing Coordinator
Editor at Large
Yurandir Benavides
Staff Photographer Tony Roberts
Art Director Fernando Alemán
+505. 8408.4048 +505. 8462.8303 +505. 2277.1813
Business Developer
Publisher
Jake Howard
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Legal Adviser
Contributing Photographers Jerson Barboza, Rick Briggs, Renato Cardoso, Roberto García, John Matthews, Brian Scott, Nica Surf Shots, Donald Stone, Helena Leona, Miguel Espinoza, Michael Dennison,
Surfnica Magazine & Travel Guide is a free publication, published every three months, and distributed nationally in the Pacific Region of Nicaragua and internationally in the United States of America, Costa Rica and Brazil. Also distributed in Centres of Touristic Information by the Nicaraguan Tourism Board. For subscription (National & Int.): info@surfnicamagazine.com All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Printed in Nicaragua. Digital version available at
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Nicaragua is a land of many shapes, colors and moving things. Here the Outer Reef showing it’s Raw Power and beauty in cilíndrico azul form. Surfnica Magazine is the channel of communication between the Nicaraguan surf community and readers around the world. Through the publication of images and stories we continue to document what’s happening in the Nicaragua surf scene, while also maintaining a close relationship with the public through social networking channels. We are proud to note that at the beginning of November the “Nicaragua, Unica Original Latin Pro” will close the NICARAGUA ALAS TOUR CLASSIC, which certifies that Nicaragua continues to position itself as a world-class surfing destination. We emphasize the excellent work of the Nicaraguan Tourism Board (INTUR) for its campaign of Nicaragua as “Surf Destination Country” and main sponsor of Surfnica Magazine & Travel Guide.
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We are also happy to be delivering a special report on the Popoyo Outer Reef, including an interview with Oliver Solis, the only local who surfs this beast, along with testimonials from friends, surfers and photographers who are passionately following this wild monster. We’re tracking the latest news on local surfers, upcoming events and important notes, highlighting a special feature on Waves of Love, a project through which you can support the socioeconomic development of the communities in your trip.
Surfnica Magazine está rompiendo el molde y se ha posicionado como el canal de comunicación de la comunidad Surf de Nicaragua y de lectores alrededor del mundo. Nuestra filosofía de comunicación es altamente dinámica, en la cual el lector participa brindando fotografías, contenido, y su tiempo para las dinámicas en FB. Queremos destacar que a inicio de Noviembre se estará desarrollando la clausura del ALAS LATIN TOUR 2013 con el “Nicaragua, ALAS Tour Classic”, el cual certifica que Nicaragua se está posicionando como un destino de surf de calidad mundial. Destacamos la titánica labor del Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo (INTUR) como promotor “País Destino Surf” y principal patrocinador de Surfnica Magazine. También entregamos un especial de Popoyo Outer Reef. Entrevistamos a Oliver Solís, el único local que surfea esta ola y además invitamos a amigos surfistas y fotógrafos que se han dedicado con pasión a esta impresionante ola.
We thank the resident community in Nica, our partners and friends who shared their experiences and photos and make all of this possible. We’d especially like to thank Mr. Carlos Deshon, the first Nicaraguan surfer.
Además encontrarás las últimas noticias sobre surfistas locales, próximos eventos y artículos de interés, destacando un reporte especial sobre Waves of Love, un proyecto mediante el cual puedes apoyar al desarrollo socioeconómico de las comunidades cuando visites Nicaragua.
Last but not least, thanks to you our dear reader.
Por ultimo pero con igual importancia gracias a ti, nuestro querido lector.
Dale pues, Surfnica Magazine
Agradecemos a la comunidad que reside en Nica; a nuestros colaboradores (anunciantes y distribución); a los amigos que compartieron su experiencia y fotos; y en especial al Sr. Carlos Deshon –primer surfista Nicaragüense.
Dale pues, Surfnica Magazine
Nica Knowledge
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Jackson Obando, National Junior Champion 2013 with a 29,950 score, has had a very successful year especially for his great performance in the Dakine ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, event in which he showed powerful surf combined with improved competition skills. Jackson Obando, Campe贸n Nacional Junior 2103 con un registro de 29,950 puntos, ha tenido un a帽o muy exitoso especialmente por su gran actuaci贸n en el Campeonato Mundial Dakine de Surfing de la ISA, evento en el cual mostro un surf potente combinado con mejores habilidades compitiendo.
PHOTO: MIGUEL ESPINOZA
Que pasa in Nica?
ECSC 2013 Hailing from San Juan Del Sur, Jeynner Granados competed in the 51st Coastal Edge Coast Surfing Championship in Virginia Beach this past August. “That wave is similar to the lake’s, with a very strong onshore,” said Jeynner, who fought through three heats on to earn a spot went straight in the Men’s final. Photo: gary petrison
Nica in Big Island, HI Among the first generation of surfers from San Juan del Sur, Roque Calderon, uncle of Rex Calderon, is the international ambassador of our country. Since 2010 Roque has been living and ripping in Maui, Hawaii, with his wife Carmen.
no just smile. I want to thank God, my wife, sponsors, photographers and videographers, and that huge blue that makes possible surfing. Also thanks Surfnica Magazine for this space. ¡Gracias!”
Three-time Nicaraguan Open Champion, ranked sixth in Central American Surfing Championship in 2006, more than eight countries surfed, and three years competing in Maui and Oahu, has made of him a complete surfer. From one-foot wave to scoring big Pipeline, he’s honed his skills in all conditions. He recently finished fifth at the 29th Annual Quiksilver-Big Island Toyota Pro-Am Surfing Trials 2013.
Roque Calderon describes Maui as the Nicaraguan Ometepe Island, a bit bigger and surrounded by waves. Besides surfing, he works and study Culinary Arts at the University of Hawaii; soon he will graduate and consider where to take his career. He considers that the best gift he can give to his mother after she’s given him so much.
“This is dedicated to all surfer children in Nicaragua, to my friends; everything is possible in this life,” said Roque. “If someone ever says
In the end he’d take a very respectable third place in the event. Congratulations mate!
Many mahalo’s from home, Roque! Photo: Robbie Hickman
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Mi amor, Nicaragua!
Mi amor, Nicaragua! Cuando grandes mentes se unen en el nombre del amor, grandiosas cosas pueden ocurrir. Este fue el caso durante este mes de agosto cuando la fundación sin fines de lucro Share the Stoke colaboró con la organización independiente nicaragüense Waves of Hope para explorar una iniciativa de liderazgo basada en el deporte del surf. Conjuntamente, se logró crear un programa dirigido a la juventud diseñado para usar dicho deporte como un incentivo para sobresalir en los estudios. Kelly Kingston, fundadora de Share the Stoke, se declara apasionada por ayudar a los niños a alcanzar su potencial tanto en el agua como en el aula. Kingston asegura que la disciplina que se aprende en el agua puede traducirse directamente al campo educativo, maximizando así las capacidades de cada niño.
When like minds get together in the name of love, big things are the outcome. This was true in August when Share The Stoke Foundation, a Florida non-profit, partnered with a Nicaraguan NGO called Waves of Hope to explore leadership through the sport of surfing. Together they created a youth impact program designed to use surfing as an incentive for youth to excel in school. Kelly Kingston, founder of Share The Stoke Foundation, is passionate about kids finding their leadership potential both on the water and in the classroom. She believes that the discipline kids learn in the water can directly translate to their education, thus maximizing their capabilities. Approximately 20 Nicaraguan teens from the community volunteered their time to teach younger kids in their local villages how to surf. It was so great to see the older boys really get involved in being responsible for the younger kids to get some waves. The following day those same volunteers competed in a contest with the prizes as brand
new Firewire surfboards. Kingston, a local man named Arman, and seven time Women’s World Tour competitor, Holly Beck, judged the competition. From the generosity of Firewire, FCS , and Sticky Bumps, seven kids were rewarded the ultimate surf package complete with a brand new surfboard, fins, traction pad, a leash, and wax. The other three surfboards will be used as a library system. The local teachers will nominate kids based on their participation in school, to use a board for that day. “The discipline of surfing is a core life skill practiced throughout the surfing community. It is often overlooked when the media marginalizes surfers.” said Kingston. “I am committed to kids learning that surfing can be a positive way for our youth to express themselves. It can teach leadership and commitment while exploring the ultimate connection with Mother Nature.” For more info visit SharetheStokeFoundation
us
on
Facebook.com/
Aproximadamente 20 adolescentes nicaragüenses ofrecieron su tiempo para enseñar a los pequeños de sus comunidades a surfear. Fue verdaderamente entretenido observar como los niños más grandes disfrutaban tanto al ver a sus pupilos atrapar una ola. Al día siguiente, estos mismos voluntarios participaron en una competencia con sorprendentes premios tales como nuevas tablas Firewire. El panel de jueces en esta ocasión consistió de Kingston, Arman (un hombre de la comunidad) y Holly Beck (competidora por séptima vez del Women’s World Tour). Gracias a la generosidad de marcas como Firewire, FCS y Sticky Bumps, se le galardonó a siete jóvenes con un paquete completo de surf, incluyendo una tabla con su cera, aletas, una almohadilla de tracción y una correa. Las tablas que no fueron entregadas durante la competición, se asignaron a un sistema tipo bibliotecario en el que maestros locales nominarán a niños a raíz de su participación en el aula para tomar prestada una tabla por el día. “La disciplina del surf es una herramienta vital practicada en la comunidad que este deporte engloba. Generalmente se pasa por alto cuando los medios marginalizan a los surfistas,” afirmó Kingston. “Estoy comprometida a ayudar a los niños a entender que el surf puede servir como un modo saludable de expresión. Éste puede enseñar tanto liderazgo como compromiso mientras se explora la conexión con la Madre Naturaleza.” Para mayor información visítanos en SharetheStokeFoundation
Facebook.com/
Que pasa in Nica?
Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic
Surfer Guillermo Satt Photo: ALAS
In August 2010 Nicaragua hosted an international surfing event, it was the second stop of the Central American Triple Crown in Playa Jiquelite, ran by the Latin American Association of Professional Surfers (A.L.A.S. by its Spanish initials). Nicaragua was a land with great potential. Anywhere you look there was surf opportunity.
the Central Pacific zone. It will run from November 6-9. This event is organized by Live Nicaragua, ALAS, Municipality of Leon and National Association of Surf.
Today, after three A.L.A.S. events and two I.S.A. events, the potential of Nicaragua is being realized. This year the Nicaraguan Tourism Board has announced they will fully sponsor and support the Nicaragua Unica Original Latin Pro 2013, another 6-star event. It will be held at Playa Las Peñitas in
Next stops of the ALAS Latin Tour will be the ONA Latin Pro in playa Parguito in Isla de Margarita, Venezuela, from October 21 to 24; and the Reef Classic in Punta de Lobos, Chile, from October 31 to November 2. For the Latin American ranking and more info visit: http://www.alaslatintour.com/
Las Peñitas is located 18km west of Colonial City of Leon. It’s a reliable sand-bottom pointbreak. The area is not so blessed by the all-day offshore winds, direction might switch in the afternoon, but it is In 2011 the eighth and penultimate stage of the certainly exposed to northern swells. Latin American Tour landed in Playa Maderas with a spectacular 6-Star event, the Latin Pro Nicaragua. As of press time the seventh and latest stop of the And again in November 2012, the Latin Tour visited Latin Tour, the Chevrolet Latin Pro Salaverry 2013, Nicaragua at Playa Aposentillo in the Northern had just wrapped up at Playa El Molon in Peru. The results are as follow: Pacific region.
Open: 1. Guillermo Satt (cHI) 2. Noe Mar McGonagle (cRI) 3. Luan Wood (bRA) 4. Jonathan chila (EcU) Damas: 1. Miluska Tello (PER) 2. Analí Gómez (PER) 3. Valeria Solé (PER) 4. Vania Torres (PER) Junior: 1. Noe Mar McGonagle (cRI) 2. Miguel Tudela (PER) 3. Joaquín Del castillo (PER) 4. cainá barletta (bRA) Longboard: 1. Francisco Hernández (VEN) 2. Lucas Garrido Lecca (PER) 3. Isidro Villao (EcU) 4. Joel Ucañan (PER)
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Junior Junior Damas Boys Open Open Damas Master Longboard Bodyboard
Categorías /Divisions
Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic
Hoy, después de tres eventos A.L.A.S. y dos I.S.A., el potencial de Nicaragua se ha descubierto. Este año el Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo ha anunciado que ellos patrocinaran y apoyaran completamente el Nicaragua Única Original Latín Pro 2013, otro evento 6-estrellas. Tomará lugar en playa Las Peñitas en la zona Pacifico Central. Será del 6 al 9 de Noviembre. Dicho evento es organizado por Live Nicaragua, Organizado por ∕ Organized by ALAS, Alcaldía de León y Asociación Nacional de Surf. Las Peñitas está ubicado a 18km al oeste de la ciudad colonial de León. Es un pointbreak banco de arena. El área no está muy bendecida por los vientos offshore todo-el-día, la dirección puede cambiar en la tarde, pero esta ciertamente expuesto a los oleajes del norte. Al momento de esta publicación la séptima y última parada del Tour Latino, el Chevrolet Latín Pro Salaverry 2013, recién finalizo en playa El Molón en Perú. Los resultados fueron los siguientes: Las próximas paradas del ALAS Latín Tour serán el
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ONA Latín Pro en playa Parguito en Isla de Margarita, Venezuela, del 21 al 24 de Octubre; y el Reef Classic en Punta de Lobos, Chile, del 31 de Octubre al 2 de Noviembre. Para la clasificación Latinoamericana y más información visita: http://www.alaslatintour. com/
Central America Surfing Championship Fecha/Date: Nov. 21-24 Lugar /Location: Playa Venao, Panama
En 2011 la octava y penúltima etapa del Tour Latinoamericano aterrizo en playa Maderas con un espectacular evento 6-estrellas, el Latín Pro Nicaragua. Y nuevamente en Noviembre 2012, el Latín Tour visito Nicaragua en Playa Aposentillo en la región Pacifico Norte.
Torneo Centroamericano de Surf
En agosto 2010 Nicaragua recibió un evento internacional de Surfing, era la segunda parada de la Triple Corona Centroamericana en playa Jiquelite, organizada por la Asociación Latinoamericana de Surfistas Profesionales (A.L.A.S.). Nicaragua era un territorio con gran potencial. Donde sea que buscaras había una oportunidad para surfear.
Que pasa in Nica?
Waves of Love Imagine yourself in Nicaragua, surfing amazing waves in the morning and in the afternoon changing the lives of the local people for generations. Impacting someone’s life so tremendously brings the experience of a surfing vacation to a higher level. You become connected, filled with compassion and understanding.
Waves of Love is a non-profit mission organization that has been working in Nicaragua since 2010. We are based in Guasacate in the Tola province. The country of Nicaragua is beautiful and the people are loving and humble. Our work is twofold: community development/building homes for the poor and connecting with the people on a soul level. We invite everyone to come join and support our work in this beautiful country. You can help in many ways: financial donations, spreading the word of our work and volunteering on projects in the community. We run Surf and Serve mission trips year round. Trips run from 1-2 weeks and are all-inclusive from the time you hit the ground in Managua until the time you leave. The surf in Nicaragua is world class. Joining us on a mission of Surf and Serve in Nicaragua is an experience that will last a lifetime. Waves of Love invites you on an adventure that will impact your life and the lives of the people in Nicaragua! We are currently raising support to build 4 Casittas on our property. These Casittas will house our mission teams. Visit: http://wedid.it/campaigns/503
Imagínate estar en Nicaragua, surfear olas increíbles en la mañana y por la tarde cambiar la vida de la gente local por generaciones. Impactar la vida de alguien tan tremendamente trae la experiencia de unas vacaciones de surf a un nivel superior. Usted se conecta y llena de compasión y comprensión. Waves of Love (Olas de Amor) es una organización misionera sin fines de lucro que trabaja en Nicaragua desde 2010. Nuestra base está en Guasacate en el departamento de Tola. El país de Nicaragua es hermoso y la gente es cariñosa y humilde. Nuestro trabajo es doble: el desarrollo comunitario / construcción de viviendas para los pobres y conectar con la gente a un nivel del alma. Invitamos a todos a venir y unirse a apoyar nuestro trabajo en este hermoso país. Usted puede ayudar de muchas maneras: donaciones financieras, la difusión de la palabra de nuestro trabajo y el voluntariado en proyectos de la comunidad. Tenemos misiones Surf and Serve (surfear y servir) durante todo el año. Los viajes van de 1-2 semanas y son todo incluido desde el momento que tocas el suelo en Managua hasta el momento de salir. El surf en Nicaragua es de clase mundial. Participar en una misión de Surf y Servir en Nicaragua es una experiencia que va a durar toda la vida. ¡Waves of Love lo invita a una aventura que impactara su vida y la de muchas personas en Nicaragua! Actualmente estamos recaudando apoyo para construir 4 casitas en nuestra propiedad. Estas casitas alojaran a nuestros equipos en misión: http://wedid.it/campaigns/503 You can contact us through our website at www.wavesoflove.org Email at michael@wavesoflove.org Nicaragua +505. 8394.8941 U.S.A. +1. 941-350-9687
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Rex has been training hard and is going for the Open and Junior title in the Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic to be held in playa Las Peñitas next November. / Rex ha estado entrenando fuerte y va por el título Open y Junior en el Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic, el cual será en playa Las Peñitas en Noviembre próximo.
Nica Hot Spots
Wave Quality
World Class
Experience Type Direction Power Normal length Good day length Best Tide Best Size Best Season Crowd Factor Zone Municipality
Advanced+ Reef-rocky Left Hollow, Fast, Powerful Normal (50 to 150m) Long (150 to 300 m) Mid-to-high 10-20'+ April-August Few surfers Guasacate - Popoyo Tola
Province
Rivas
Presented by
Popoyo Outer Reef “Central America’s Heaviest Wave” There is a video on YouTube entitled “Oliver Solis Outer Reef.” It was shot several years ago. The first time I watched it I had doubts that the waves being ridden were somewhere on the Nicaraguan coast. Struck by the size and power of the wave I had to know the truth, and it didn’t take me long to go on a trip and witness this wonder throwing some very heavy waves. “How will I ever describe this?” I remember thinking thought. I had no idea one day
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this would be my task, so how am I going to do this? How about approaching every surfer who charges this monster and every photographer who shoots it? There’s no better way to completely describe this beast than having their testimonies on paper. The lineup includes: surfers James Yemma, Drex Harrington, Manuel Resano and John Matthews, and photographer’s: Donald Stone, Roberto Garcia and Rick Briggs.
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chargers James Yemma. My first time seeing the Outer reef was in January of 1997. We had just checked into La Tica, which was the only place to stay back then. We walked 30 minutes to the beach through the salt flats and river. When I came around the point right in front of La Bocana all I could see was the outer reef at dead low tide doubling up on itself and spitting every wave. It was pretty intense looking. It wouldn’t be until a year later that I my good friend Tim Hughes and I decided to paddled out to the right for the first time. The surf was about 10-foot on the faces. As we approached the adrenaline really started pumping. We saw the countless boils swirling around. I’d never seen anything like it. Even now I get a little adrenaline flowing when I think about it. After that every time there was a solid swell I would paddle out there, trying to get people to go with me even if it’s just to sit on the shoulder and watch. I don’t like surfing out there by myself. It’s just too dangerous, but what an amazing spot to have right out back of the house. I just wanted to thank the Lord Jesus for keeping me safe all these years and for allowing so much blessing to flow into my life through Nicaragua. I truly love this place and her people.
Drex Harrington The Outer Reef is unlike any wave most will ever surf. It only works proper when it’s triple overhead plus. The currents shift you out of position and the sneaker sets clean you up like no other wave I’ve ever surfed. It breaks on a dry ledge once mid tide hits so your margin of error is very small. The boils on the bottom turn look like a boiling caldron and will intimidate any surfer. Every time I paddle out I always say a quick prayer to keep me off the dry ledge and make it out of the heaving death pits that throw out as far as they are tall. I have made a few of the best barrels of my life out there. I have almost drowned put there, two-wave hold-downs on a quadruple overhead day that pulled my leash plug out and carried me underwater for about a third of a mile. I give this wave full respect and look forward to my next session out there. Va Pue!
Manuel Resano My connection with Nicaragua started way before landing in the country. For reasons that I can’t explain, since I was very young, I had a big interest in this land. The adventure started when I opened a sailing school in Granada. Back then there was no information about the surf; I only had a little map that showed Popoyo and crazy rocks (The Outer Reef). I made the drive to the beach and saw crazy rocks spitting. Without even thinking I paddeled out. It was low tide and full moon. Once in the lineup the rocks came to life. Time to retreat. My second attempt was in March, 12-foot Hawaiian with 40-knot of offshore winds. I had a 6´8” and I couldn’t get in. To stay positive, I sat my tent on the beach and promised myself that I was going to dedicate the next five years to that wave and would have the chance to surf it again in those same conditions with the right equipment. In April 2003, on my birthday, we surfed the first legit swell, eight to ten feet Hawaiian, light offshore and good direction. My friends JJ, John Mathews and Oliver Soliz were with me. Lance missed that first one, but joined the Outer Reef crew in the very next swell. That swell was a mix of emotions that helped me look into myself. During those same days my first daughter was conceived and I realized where I wanted to live and raise my new family. Since then the Outer Reef has been ruling my life in different ways. My work schedule and family trips depend on the swell energy.
John Matthews Like any slab wave, the Outer Reef is thick and can be hard to get into. It doesn’t give you a big ramp to glide on while your stroking in, and if you’re behind the hump or on top of it you’re probably going to fall out of the sky trying to get in. It’s sort of West Oz slab meets Pipeline. Pipe is a better wave and certainly holds much bigger surf (Popoyo Outer Reef starts coming apart at around 10-foot Hawaiian), but Popoyo can deliver that same ear-popping pressure change while in the barrel that you’d expect from any marquee super spot around the world. All the local guys who ride it when its on would be happy just riding one wave during their session, it’s that kind of experience—except for Manny, we expect him to get about three times as many waves. He is the man out there. Only JJ gives him a run for the money, but Manny spends more time in the water whenever it’s breaking then any one. At this point he has become so comfortable out there and so smooth it’s impossible to give the nod to any other surfer as the man at Outers. From time to time JJ takes it, but only just barely, Manny is that consistent at one of Nicaragua’s heaviest waves.
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shooters Roberto Garcia Outer Reef, easily the most dangerous wave in all Nicaragua. Sitting in the reef channel is one of the most exciting sensations, be the first and only photographer to be there in most of the swells has taught me the greatest potential of our country and the respect we owe to Mother Nature. God Bless Nicaragua.
Donald Stone When the Outer Reef is working it truly is a site to behold. I never tire of watching waves of this magnitude come through and explode on the reef so close to us. The guys that run the boats have the tough job, keeping us in position to shoot while always looking for waves swinging wide. It’s a scary feeling sitting in a boat trying to out run a monster set that’s starting to feather on the outside. Other than that my work out here is easy as we set up and the guys dropping in surf directly towards me, like shooting fish in a barrel. But none of this would be possible without those who charge it when it’s working. Few people surf this reef and none better than J.J. Yemma, Lance Moss and Manuel Resano, along with Oliver Solis, the only Nicaraguan charger. I give credit to all the guys that surf the Outer Reef, without them our photos would just be empty wave shots…then who’d buy our photos?
Rick Briggs Shooting water out there is a love/hate relationship. It can be sketchy when there is a lot of west in the swell. That westy bowl can clamp and shut down leaving you caught inside. I had my water housing ripped right off (w/ 2 leashes) last year trying to get under one. No bueno, no fun. But I love the energy and the adrenaline rush. I’m like a child on Christmas Eve when I see an 18-second period and know we have an Outer Reef swell on the way. Sometimes sitting on the boil and trying to line up can be tricky with the currents out there. That wave is no joke. Pictures and video do that wave no justice until you are actually out there. It even looks tame from the beach. But what you can’t see is the rivers of current, the wind, the ledge and raw power unless you’re up close and personal. I give props to JJ, Manuel, Cabeza, Lance, Trin and everyone else who goes out there and plays with that beast.
Thanks to Magnific Rock for sponsoring this section. Magnific Rock Hotel overlooks Nicaragua’s premier surf break and one Central America’s top surfing destination. Perched on a 30 metre cliff face, Magnific Rock offers its guests an unparalleled experience with 270 degree views of Popoyo’s best surf breaks, including Popoyo Outer Reef, Popoyo River mouth and Jiquelite’s.
Oliver Solís
¿pasión o locura?
BY CESAR MEDINA
Photo: donald stone
W
hen I knew that this edition would be dedicated to Popoyo Outer Reef I immediately contacted Oliver Solís. I asked him if he would agree to an interview. Sure!
A few days later I found myself on the way to Playa Gigante, where he currently lives. We never actually sat down to roll tape on the first or second day—the surf was too good. By the third day the waves had dropped and the interview was on. Surfnica: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Oliver: I was born in 1999 in Managua, but raised in San Juan del Sur, Masachapa and Popoyo. Since I was a little boy my father would take me to San Juan del Sur. I always went to the beach and played with a cousin. I was always closet to the water then. How did you get your first surfboard? My father started working with some people from Los Angeles, California. They had two longboards and one boogie. The first time I surfed was on a longboard at Playa Remanso. I was around eight years old. But before this I used to see some kids who would shape boards of poroplast and I got into that. One of these kids was my cousin who using a machete to shape boogies. When I was 11 I was given a 6’0”. It was my first board. I had to pay for it, cleaning their pool for a whole year (laughing).
I guess that from this event, the history connects with other local surfers. How and when did you join them? The first surfers were Chucheca, Gio and Payin [he only remember the nicknames]. All were from San Juan del Sur. In the second group there was Sergio, Marlon and Euclides, and they got involved with the first ones. Then there were around eight boys and they all took turns with a classic Fox surfboard. Later, some Aussies came and sold us boards, all classic single or twin fins. When I got my first board I joined them, hanging out with Sergio and Chucheca. I quickly learned to ride the wave. So you stayed surfing in the area? Yes, until 1999. How and when was your first encounter with a big wave? I always surfed the large swells that hit San Juan Del Sur beach break, but there was another wave we surfed, bigger and heavier. Which wave? In 2000 I started to work with J.J. in Popoyo. While I worked there, I followed him and saw him out there surfing and told him, “I want to surf over there with you!” He told me I was crazy, that the wave would kill me. But eventually that year I started surfing the reef with him. It was intimidating. I was scared. But I went for it. My first three waves were all wipeouts that caused me
great pain. But one day, during another swell, we were having a great session out there. All the guys were tranquilo, all charging. Suddenly a large set hit and I dropped in on the big one! That’s when everything started. When I made this drop I realized that I could surf this wave. What happened next? From this day on I surfed every large swell with J.J. I was learning a lot watching the pros. I saw how they dropped in from very deep, from the very inside. But this wave hurts too. You have to have a strong mind to surf it. Did you ever find yourself surfing with a San Juan del Sur local with whom you started? Yes, most of them have surfed this wave, with medium size swells of about seven feet. But they are still shy about it. I invite all these guys to come out whenever they’re up for it. I watched the film Centro Nicaragua by Tyler Bliss. Kervin Lopez said that you have no fear about anything, is that true? No, I am scared! I have fear when I think about what can happen if my head hit the reef. When you fall from a big waves it’s an adventure because you don’t know what’s going to happen. You’re risking your life? Of course yes! But also if you think too much of getting hurt, that’s when you will really get hurt. When you don’t
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think and just go tranquilo to enjoy this energy then you get confidence, you begin to listen to the ocean. The ocean is alive, there is a special energy in it. Do you practice any kind of ritual before going to surf the Reef? Oliver: No, I just train, put my life before God and go. I am happy when I surf it. I feel the adrenaline exploding in my body.
Mavericks is another level, what if it would have been breaking? I would have paddled out, I swear I would, at least to sit on the peak. After that I went snowboarding to Alaska, and finally went to Hawaii where I surfed Sunset Beach and the wonderful Pipeline. We even got Waimea on a medium size day. a medium size swell. Behind Sunset there’s a reef break, the peak is wild, it breaks right and left, and on this wave I was a bit shy because it is shallower. When you drop you can see the reef, and the only thought I had in mind was, “I don’t want to fall here!” I dream about going to Indonesia, going to Tahiti to surf Teahupoo, even though it looks scary. I would like to have the chance and see if I can.
Despite your ability surfing the Reef, I suppose you have had some interesting experiences? There was a large swell, it was J.J., Yamil Amador and I. It was one of those special days, top-to-bottom last words to “If I die while surfing it doesn’t matter because I Any 20-footers. I had already conclude? caught four waves, I felt was already ready for that day.” -- Brother, I thank the ocean safe. Then I went deeper, and God for the ocean. Oliver Solís. Thanks God for giving me I paddled for a wave and the wind, which was very the opportunity to surf strong, pushed me back there. and I fell from the peak. I want to invite my friend When I was falling I thought, “This wave is going to hurt me.” Codo, who has a new gun, to come join me. I know there And it did. When I landed I just felt the hit on my head and my are a lot of guys who have the skills and they know who vision darkened. J.J. helped me going in, I had a broken rib they are. I don’t know their feelings and I know that surfing and my shoulder was seriously hurt, it was one of my most this wave is not for everybody. Surfing Popoyo Outer Reef is difficult experiences. like a game that opens your senses, you start listening to the nature, the ocean language, and you feel the energy of God. I heard you went on a surf trip to United States. Share with us. Thank you very much, Oliver. Let’s go surfing now! I went to San Diego in California, surfed Blacks Beach with You are welcome Medina. Let’s go! double to triple overhead sets. It is a very fun beachbreak. I used a 6’6” and there were lots of freefalls (laughs). I went to Oliver Solis recently started his own business with the Maverick’s but it was flat. Monkey House Hostel (Playa Gigante), which is located just three minutes from Playa Amarillo and 20 minutes from Playa Iguana (Colorado).
Photo: donald stone
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Oliver Solís ¿pasión o locura?
“Surfeo todo tipo de ola, pero cuando surfeo Outer Reef, es otra cosa, es como una droga man”. “Si muero en la ola, no importa, porque ya estaba listo pare ese día”, Oliver Solís. Extraído de Centro Nicaragua por Tyler Bliss Photo: donald stone
U
na vez supe que esta edición sería dedicada a Popoyo Outer Reef, inmediatamente me comuniqué con Oliver Solís, y le pregunté si estaba de acuerdo que le hiciéramos una entrevista. Rápidamente contesto: ¡Claro que sí! … Pocos días después me encontraba camino a Playa Gigante, lugar en el cual reside. Ni el primer ni el segundo día fue posible pues había un buen oleaje golpeando. La primera excusa fue que haríamos la entrevista después de surfear y la segunda que estábamos cansados y la haríamos al día siguiente. Finalmente al tercer día le dije: ¡Oliver! ¡No hemos hecho la entrevista!, a lo que él respondió: ¡Hoy sí la haremos por la tarde! (unos segundos después) ¡Después de surfear! Me puse a reír y le dije: ¡Dale pues, pero tiene que ser hoy! César: Oliver, cuéntanos un poco sobre ti. Preséntate en breve ante cada lector dentro y fuera de Nicaragua. Oliver: Nací el veintidós de septiembre de mil novecientos setenta y nueve, en Managua, pero me crié en San Juan del Sur, Masachapa y Popoyo. Desde que era un bebé, mi papá me llevaba a San Juan del Sur y siempre iba a jugar a la playa con un primo. Igualmente cuando iba a Masachapa o al Astillero. Siempre estaba cerca del océano. ¿Cómo llegó el primer surfboard a tus manos? Mi papá empezó a trabajar con unas personas de California, y ellos tenían dos longboards y un boogie. La primera vez que surfié usé una de sus longboards, en playa Remanso, tenía aproximadamente ocho años. Antes de esto, miraba a los chavalos que cortaban unas tablas de poroplast, y me les uní. Uno de estos chavalos era mi primo, quien usando un machete, les daba la forma de boogie. Cuando tenía once, me trajeron una tabla mexicana 6’0”, fue mi primera tabla. Tuve que trabajar limpiando la piscina por un año para pagarla (risas).
Me imagino que a partir de este suceso la historia se conecta con los otros surfistas locales. ¿Cómo y cuándo te les uniste? Los primeros que iniciaron fueron: “Chucheca”, “Gio” y”Payin” (increíblemente sólo los recuerda por los sobrenombres), todos de San Juan del Sur. En el segundo grupo estaba Sergio, Marlon y Euclides, quienes se involucraron con los primeros. Al final eran como ocho chavalos y todos se turnaban una tabla Fox clásica. Luego vinieron unos australianos y les vendieron tablas, todas clásicas, de una o dos quillas. Cuanto obtuve mi primera tabla me uní y empecé a surfear con Sergio y “Chucheca”. Rápidamente aprendí a correr la ola y realizar pequeños cortes. “Chucheca” me daba raid a playa Yankee, y usualmente iba con “Gio”. Luego me imagino que te quedaste surfeando en el área. Sí, me quedé como hasta 1999. ¿Cuándo y cómo llego el primer encuentro con una ola grande? Siempre surfeaba los oleajes grandes que entraban a San Juan del Sur, en el beach-break. Pero había una ola más grande y pesada que surfeábamos. ¿Cuál? -risas-. En el 2000 empecé a trabajar con J.J. en Popoyo. Al estar trabajando ahí, lo seguí, lo miré surfeando y le dije: ¡Yo quiero surfear allá con vos! ¡Vos estás loco, esa ola te va a matar!”, me respondió. Ese año empecé a surfear el Reef con él pero ¡era intimidante, me daba miedo!, hasta que decidí hacerlo y mis primeras tres olas fueron caídas y causaban mucho dolor con solo la presión y energía de la ola. Pero un día entró un oleaje y esa fue la continuación: fue un día especial. Todos estaban tranquilos en el Reef, todos tomando olas, y de repente entró un set grandísimo, y ¡bajé la grande! Ahí comenzó todo, cuando bajé esa ola supe que podía surfear ahí. Sentí como que estuve “conversando” con la ola,
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puede que pases bajando olas todo el día pero en cualquier momento tienes que “pagar los impuestos”. Según se, fuiste en un surf trip a Estados Unidos. Compártenos. Fui a San Diego en California, surfié Black Beach de dos a tres cuerpos. Es un beach-break muy divertido, usé una tabla 6’6” y eran unas grandes caídas libres (risas). Fui a buscar Mavericks, pero estaba plano. Pero ya sabemos que Mavericks es otro nivel. ¿Y si hubiera estado rompiendo? La hubiera remado, te lo juro que sí. Aunque sea a sentarme en el pico. Después fui a Alaska a practicar snowboard, y por último a Hawái donde surfié Sunset Beach, y el majestuoso Pipeline con oleaje mediano., y Waimea grande. Detrás de Sunset hay un reef break, el pico es violento, rompe derecha e izquierda, y en esta ola estuve un poco tímido porque es más seco. Cuando bajas la ola puedes ver el arrecife, y lo único que pensaba era: ¡No me quiero caer aquí! Sueño con ir a Indonesia, surfear Teahupo’o, aunque se mira intimidante; quisiera tener la oportunidad de ver si puedo. ¿Algunas palabras para concluir? Hermano, le doy gracias al océano, y a Dios porque tengo el océano. ¡Gracias a Dios por darme esta oportunidad de surfear ahí! Quiero invitar a mi amigo “Codo” quien tiene un nuevo gun. Yo sé que hay varios chavalos que tienen la capacidad y ellos saben quiénes son; no conozco sus sentimientos; y sé que surfear esa ola no es para todos. Surfear Popoyo Outer Reef es como un juego que abre tus sentidos, los cuales se agudizan porque estás al límite. En este instante, es cuando empiezas a escuchar la naturaleza, el lenguaje del océano, y sientes la energía de Dios. Todo tu ser, tu energía y tu cuerpo lo pones a prueba en la cual puedes resultar muy lastimado. Muchas gracias Oliver. ¡Vamos a surfear ahora! De nada Medina. ¡Vamos! analizando si podía o no podía. “Oliveeeer, miré tu ola grande”, me decían todos. No lo podía creer. El sentimiento de surfear ahí es increíble, es salvaje (con una gran sonrisa y emoción en su rostro). Entonces ¿Qué pasó? A partir de este día, cada oleaje que entraba me iba con J.J. y aprendí viendo a profesionales; miraba como ellos se tiraban profundos, desde adentro. Entonces, aprendí a ir más adentro; pero esa ola lastima mucho también. La mente es clave. Cuando logras una “liberación mental” es fácil, porque tienes confianza y cada ola que bajas es como un juego.
¿Arriesgas tu vida entonces? ¡Claro que sí! Pero si piensas mucho en que te puedes lastimar, es cuando realmente te lastimas. Pero cuando no piensas y te vas tranquilo a disfrutar esa energía, entonces ganas confianza, empiezas a escuchar el océano y éste te escucha. ¡El océano está vivo, hay una energía especial! Hay una sincronización con la ola y empiezas a leerla mejor; luego empiezas a bajar una y otra de estas bestias. Visualizas como lo hiciste “Surfear Popoyo Outer Reef es como un juego y prácticas en tu mente para estar preparado que abre tus sentidos, estos se agudizan porque para la siguiente.
estás al límite, es cuando empiezas a escuchar la naturaleza, el lenguaje del océano, y sientes la energía de Dios. Todo tu ser, tu energía y tu cuerpo lo pones a prueba en la cual puedes resultar muy lastimado.” Oliver Solís.
¿Te encontraste en algún momento surfeando con algún local de San Juan del Sur, con quienes iniciaste a surfear? Si, la mayoría de ellos han surfeado esta ola, con oleajes medianos como de siete pies. Pero aún tienen timidez de esta ola (risas). Yo invito a todos los chavalos, a quien sienten que pueden bajar y dominar esta ola, que continúe practicando, ¡que no me dejen solo!
Oliver, mire la película Centro Nicaragua de Tyler Bliss, Kervin López dice que no le tienes miedo a nada. ¿Es cierto? ¡Sí tengo miedo! Siento miedo cuando pienso en lo que puede pasar si golpeo mi cabeza contra el arrecife. Cuando te caes de una ola grande es una aventura porque no sabes lo que pasará.
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Oliver Solís recientemente inició su propio negocio con el Monkey House Hostel (playa Gigante), el cual está ubicado a tres minutos de playa Amarillo y veinte de playa Iguana (Colorado).
¿Practicas algún tipo de ritual antes de ir a surfear? No, solamente entreno, me encomiendo a Dios y voy. Me siento feliz cuando surfeo esa ola; siento la adrenalina que explota en mi cuerpo.
A pesar de tu habilidad surfeando el Reef, supongo que has tenido tus “experiencias interesantes”. Si, una vez que había un oleaje gigante; solo estábamos J.J., Yamil Amador y yo. Era uno de esos días especiales, sólo bombas tubulares de veinte pies a más estaban rompiendo. Ya había tomado cuatro olas, me sentí seguro y me fui más profundo, remé una ola y el offshore, que estaba muy fuerte, me detuvo y me caí desde el pico. Cuando iba cayendo pensé: “esta ola me va a lastimar”, y en efecto al caer, sentí el golpe en la cabeza y mi visión se oscureció. J.J. me ayudó a salir; tenía una costilla rota y el hombro lastimado, fue una de mis experiencias más difíciles. Puede que sientas que estás en tus mejores días, pero nunca tendrás el control;
Photo: Roberto Garcia/nsr
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Location
Web site
Phone
Description
Buena Onda Beach Resort
Playa Jiquelite (Santana)
www.buenaondabeachresort.com
info@buenaondaresort.com
(505) 8973-0101
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www.elcaminodelsol.com
jason@elcaminodelsol.com
(505) 8368-3943
Hotel Casa Romano
San Juan del Sur
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theblueland@gmail.com
(505) 2568-2200
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Hostal Esperanza
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www.hostelesperanza.com
hostelesperanzasjs@gmail.com
(505) 8754-6816
Surf Hostel
Hotel Gran Oc茅ano
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www.hotelgranoceano.com.ni
hgoceano@ibw.com.ni
(505) 25682219 (505) 25682428
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Hotel La Estaci贸n/ Restaurante El Buen Gusto
San Juan del Sur
www.laestacion.com.ni
laestacionhotel@gmail.com
(505) 2568-2304 (505) 2568-2747
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Hotel Royal Chateau
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www.hotelroyalchateau.com
hotelroyalchateau@yahoo.com
25682551
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www.gigantebay.com
gigantebay@gmail.com
(505) 8712-8888
Hostel / Restaurant Surf Lodge
Iguana Surf
Playa Colorado
www.iguanasurfrental.com
surfnica@hotmail.com
(505) 8736-0656
Magnific Rock
Playa Popoyo
www.magnificrockpopoyo.com
info@ magnificrockpopoyo.com
(505) 8916-6916
Surf Lodge
Milagro del Mar
Playa San Diego
www.lavidanica.com
angela.smetana@lavidanica.com
(505) 8354-1104
Hotel / Surf
Rest. Brisas Marinas
San Juan del Sur
www.restaurante-brisasmarinas. blogspot.com/
restaurantebrisasmarinas@ gmail.com
(505) 2568-3014
Restaurant
Seeking Santosha
San Juan del Sur
www.seekingsantoshanicaragua. com
heidi@seekingsantoshanicaragua.com
Mango Rosa
Playa Maderas
www.mangorosanicaragua.com
lapangarosa@gmail.com.com
(505) 8879-4796
Hotel Restaurant
Turtle Lodge
Playa Poneloya
www.surfingturtlelodge.com
info@surfingturtlelodge.com
(505) 8640-0644
Hotel / Restaurant
Yoga Retreat
Hotel Hamacas
Playa Astillero
www.hostalhamacas.com
info@hostalhamacas.com
(505) 8810-4144
Hotel / Restaurant
Gaviota Surf Lodge
Playa Gigante
gaviota.surf@gmail.com
gaviota.surf@gmail.com
(505) 8666-7008
Hotel / Restaurant
SurfNica Waves
San Juan del Sur
www.surfnicawaves.com
travel@surfnicawaves.com
(800) 679-1947
Surf Shop / Tours
Avis
National
www.avis.com.ni
pendiente
(505) 2233-3011
Rent a Car
Budget
National
www.budget.com.ni
reserve@budget.com.ni
(505) 2255-9000
Rent a Car
Hotel Casa Romano
San Juan del Sur
-------------------
theblueland@gmail.com
(505) 2568-2200
Hotel
Rest. Brisas Marinas
San Juan del Sur
www.restaurante-brisasmarinas. blogspot.com/
restaurantebrisasmarinas@ gmail.com
(505) 2568-3014
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AquaLimpia de Nicaragua
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www.aqualimpia.com.ni
amejia@aqualimpia.com.ni
(505) 8451-4130
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