Ah, the east coast.. contrary to the general belief, I look forward to the events on the east coast, I like the vibes and always have a good time. It is a little frustrating because the week before is usually unsurfable, but as the contest goes on it starts to produce. I usually do really well here, I won my first ever pro event in 2010 at Cocoa Beach and I won my first pro junior there as well last year so I’ve got good memories.
When I packed for Florida, there were sun dresses, shorts and flip flops in my suitcase. I was excited to wear my new Roxy Spring pieces, however the first few mornings we were graced with 48 degree weather and walked down the beach for the morning call in howling wind and winter jackets, to watch the gorgeous sun rise above the dormant ocean. It was definitely frustrating, but we were always hopeful it would pick up the next day.
We made the most of a bad situation, everyone was having fun and joking around about the “ankle biting” waves we were surfing. There were still smiles all round and a lot of ripping in the contest despite the trying conditions.
This year was a little disappointing for me though, i felt like i knew the break well and i was on my game, but when the waves are smaller than knee high its unpredictable, whoever gets that one set wave that comes in is going to make it. I came in 5th overall, but it was a great experience, I learnt a lot about small wave surfing and what becomes the most important.
It may sound awful but every time I surf the east coast I appreciate where I’m from and what i have so much more. I am blessed to call Soup Bowl my home break and to grow up in warm crystal clear waters.
