Freesurf v22n6

REPAIR REUSE RECYCLE

In 1974, after finding yet another broken sandal on the sand, I decided to create something better—comfortable, durable, and built to last. Rainbow® Sandals was born with a mission to make quality products that don’t end up in landfills. Our commitment extends beyond the sale: if your sandals are beyond warranty but still wearable, please return them. We’ll repair and donate them to those in need, from the unhoused to disaster victims. Our philosophy is simple: Repair • Reuse • Recycle and we hope you’ll join us in it.”

Founder / CEO

FREE PARKING

Do you remember when you were a kid how much fun it was to ride the seesaw? Well, now we can only wish that we could see what Hailey Otto saw in this somewhat otherworldly moment of grace, balance, and composition.

Photo Mike Ito

EDITORIAL

Editor / Publisher

Mike Latronic

Photo Director

Brian Bielmann

Art Director

John Weaver

Distribution & Advertising Inquiries

Mike Latronic mlatronic808@gmail.com

Business Administration Cora Sanchez corabooks@ freesurfmagazine.com

Hawaii Distribution & Sales

Keola Latronic keolalatronic808@gmail.com

West Coast Distribution & Sales

Chuck Hendsch (619) 227-9128

Staff Shooters

Brent Bielmann, Mike Latronic, John Weaver

Staff Writer

Kaea Latronic

Contributing Writers

Tor Johnson, Alexandra Kahn, Daniel Ikaika Ito, Nicole Nason, Amanda Blackwell

Contributing Photographers

Christa Funk, Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Dooma Photos, Dayanidhi Das, Erik Aeder, Mark Rodrigues, Aaron Lynton, Kurt Steinmetz, Mike Ito, Tommy Pierucki, Sean Evans, Stu Soley, Tai Vandyke, Mitch McEwen, Sivar Films, Humanocine, Feistan Rivera, Samuel Rivera

FREESURF MAGAZINE is distributed at most fine surf shops and select specialty stores throughout Hawai‘i and Southern California.

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.

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. 2025

waimea Valley Explore

Ka Aha Hula i Waimea

Join the Valley for traditions of mele oli and mele hula from new hālau 11 AM & 1 PM in the Amphitheatre.

Kipahele Tour

Discover and explore behind-thescenes views into the sacred wonders of this culturally significant ahupua‘a (land division). A guided experience to the waterfall and back same-day admission to Waimea Valley round-trip.

Kauhale Kahiko

Step into the sacred past through this new exhibit reconstructed on the archaeological remnants of a kauhale (structures comprised of several hale with specific functions) that existed here throughout Waimea Valley’s vast history. Learn more about the cultural significance that these dwellings provide for Kānaka Maoli (Native People) from past to present.

EDITOR'S NOTE

By Mike Latronic

If surfing teaches us anything, it’s that time moves in curves and rhythms. I'm pretty sure there’s science to back that up, but quantum mechanics aside, for us surfers, there’s always a past swell to reminisce about, a new swell to froth about, and another wave to spin around for and set your line. This issue of Freesurf is another peek at that full spectrum of surfing on the pulse as it evolves.

Inside, we feature another good mix. Introducing Ryan Sughihara, now at the helm of Town & Country Surfboards. Inheriting a brand with such storied legacy isn’t just about preserving a name—it’s about carrying forward a way of life. Ryan moved into leadership from his parents who shaped T&C into what it is today. Ryan brings both respect and fresh perspective to the role. Bridging generations, reminding us that legacy isn’t static—it’s alive, and in this case, in good hands.

We also turn focus to Kaua‘i’s youth, Jacob Turner. A teenager with a fearless edge, Jacob recently hot-dogged his way to qualify to represent Hawaii’s youth as part of the Hawaii Surf Team, has also been turning heads in waves of serious consequence. He surfs with courage and maturity that far exceed his years, carving a path not just for competition, but for impact.

Freesurf is also fortunate to catch up with another man of vision. Longtime contributor and visual storyteller Mike Ito opens his lens in a profile that reveals more than just great photography. Mike has built a career on capturing the grace, chaos and joy of our beloved sport.

Lucky for us, the Beilmann photo bonanza is also in full force. Both Brent and uncle Brian were on hand for some great southshore energy and those massive swells in Tahiti. In Fit for Surf, Dr. Ali Mesiwala, a neurosurgeon gives us insights to just how amazing and demanding surfing can be to the human spine. His approach to performance and recovery is rooted in both science and personal stoke. Of course, no issue is complete without our regulars: Stuff We Like showcases the gear and gadgets we’re vibing with lately, Industry Notes offers quick hits from across the surf world, and Environmental Notes digs deeper into the ocean issues that matter.

Mahalo for riding along with us. See you in the water.

Mike Latronic Publisher, Freesurf Magazine

Legacy in Motion: The Sugiharas, T&C, and the Enduring Power of 'Ohana

By Mike Latronic

This is a story about surfing and surfboards, yes—but more importantly, it’s a story about ʻohana.

In Hawaiian culture, ʻohana means family, but it carries a deeper meaning than just blood relations. ‘Ohana represents a sense of belonging, loyalty, and love that extends to family and close friends.

For over five decades, the story of Town & Country Surfboards has been a shining example of what ʻohana can build—when family, community, and a deep passion for surfing all move in the same direction.

Craig and Linda Sugihara didn’t just start a business—they created a lifestyle. From a humble barber shop in Pearl City, they launched a surfboard company and retail brand that would become one of Hawaii’s most iconic surf companies. Just about two years ago, after 50 years of operations, Ryan Sugihara, their eldest son, was handed the reins from mom and dad. Here, as much as the first born accepted the passing of the torch— -he also grew up with it. Both Ryan and younger brother Gareth were raised in and around T&C’s shops, factories, and team riders. Ryan surfed, worked, learned, and lived the T&C life from every angle. Ryan didn’t just see the business—he experiencedfelt it. He watched legends come and go, and even got to go surfing with some of them. After college on the mainland, his parents called upon him, and in 2022 he earned his place: not just as part of the company, but as its next leader.

There was no corporate rebrand or a sudden shift in tone. The youngblood willwould now steer the ship but if anything, his mission is simple: to honor the foundation his parents built, and to ensure that T&C continues to grow with heart, humility, and a deep respect for its roots in Hawaii.

What are your earliest memories of surfing?

My dad used to take me and my brother out to places like Courts or Haleiwa and Makaha. I was probably eight or nine when we really started getting into it.

With your dad being a shaper and running the biz, one would think you had any pick of any board design you wanted?

My dad, he’d just bring a board home and say, “This is what you’re using,” and we’d ride whatever he had. It was always around us. It wasn’t like I needed a new board—I just surfed with what was there.

You grew up with mom and dad at the helm of T&C, how did it shape your view of surfing—as both a culture and a business?

For me, it’s always been both. I was born into the surf industry. I love the culture, but I also love the business side. It drives me every day. It’s not easy—but it’s fulfilling. Watching my parents balance both passion and business left a big impression on me.

at one of our houses and all the team riders were hanging out, cracking jokes, being wild. We were just little kids in the mix.

What was it like with you and Gareth growing up around the legends—being behind the curtain at T&C?

Pretty surreal. We were always tagging along—at the shops, at the factory, at team meetings. Guys like Dane, Johnny Boy, Sunny… they were just around. I remember going downstairs

Your dad Craig was a master craftsman. Did he ever shape boards for you personally?

By the time we were really into it, the business was bigger and he was more focused on R&D and managing shapers. He never shaped one personally for me, but he made sure we had the right boards. He always handled that part.

You took over as president in 2022. How did that transition come about? I came back from college in 2001 with a degree in business and started in marketing. Over the years I worked everywhere—retail, factory, you name it. My parents slowly started stepping back, and eventually I was handling more and more of the day-to-day stuff. By the time I stepped in as president, I’d already been doing the job for a while.

MAHALO MARGARITA is a give-back cocktail program where on premise accounts donate a portion of sales from their MAHALO MARGARITA, made with Tradicional 100% agave tequila, to AccesSurf. Jose Cuervo® will match the proceeds up to $25k. Together, this joint donation of $50k would go to support surf experiences and more for a full year.

OAHU

Kuhio Avenue Food Hall / Waikiki

Kelly O’Neil's / Waikiki

Jorge's / Haleiwa

El Ranchero / Kapolei

El Ranchero / Wahiawa

Mekiko Cantina / Ko’olina

Restaurant 604 / Arizona Memorial

The Beachouse by 604 / Waianae

60 Fore Bar & Grill / Barber’s Point

604 Clubhouse / Leilehua

604 Ale House / Schofield

Mangiamo’s / Navy Marine Golf

OAHU HOTELS

Sheraton Waikiki Hotel

Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Moana Surfrider Hotel

Princess Kaiulani Hotel

Marriott Waikiki Hotel

BIG ISLAND

Huggo's

Lava Lava

Kai Eats

MAUI

Sergio's Cantina

Sheraton Maui

KAUA'I HOTELS

Friendly Waves

Lava Lava Beach Club

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Discover your next adventure. Redeem Priority Miles to book any flight and stay anywhere available on our Expedia-powered travel platform.

How do you balance honoring your parents’ legacy with steering the brand into the future?

For me, it’s not about making it bigger—it’s about doing things better. Supporting our staff, growing thoughtfully, and maintaining quality. We’re still locally owned, family-run, and rooted in Hawaii. That’s non-negotiable. But we’re also looking at smart growth—taking the right opportunities without losing who we are.

Do you feel pressure to compete with bigger, more corporate surf brands?

Not really. We don’t answer to stockholders. We don’t have to sacrifice authenticity for profit. That gives us freedom. Freedom to stay true to the culture and community that built T&C in the first place.

The yin-yang logo is iconic. What’s the origin of the name and symbol?

My dad came up with the name while opening his first shop in Pearl City. It was right between town and country, so it made sense. Then an artist friend helped develop the yin-yang logo to complement the name. It’s been with us ever since.

What’s your vision for the next chapter of T&C?

To build on what my parents created—not reinvent it. We’ll keep refining our boards, expanding thoughtfully, and most importantly, staying connected to Hawaii. We’re still one of the only surf brands that’s locally owned and operated by the founding family. That means something.

THE QUIET STORM

Jacob Turner’s Rise from Unknown to Unshakable

“I think it’s the adrenaline. There’s this pull toward bigger, heavier barrels. And honestly, the crowd at Pipe is so gnarly, I started sitting deeper, where there’s less competition. It’s riskier, but that’s where the magic is.”

In nearly four decades of documenting surfing in Hawai’i, I’ve seen generations of talent bloom. Some became champions and others moved on to other pursuits. There have been many athletes with world-class skill, balance, reflexes and strength, but when it comes to surfing waves of serious consequence, raw athleticism and muscle tone aren’t everything. Timing, technique, ocean knowledge and raw courage play a key role.

I first heard murmurs about a certain teenage surfer from Kauai who was charging heavy waves last summer at large sized Chopes, like a seasoned gladiator. Up until about two years ago, I had never heard of Jacob Turner but after what I heard about his Tahiti performances mixed in with what I personally saw go down at pipeline this

past season I have become, not just a witness with testimony, but moreover, a believer.

Born in Florida, Jacob’s journey to the Hawaiian islands began with his parents—both surfers— searching for a better life and better waves. The family settled on the North Shore of Kauai where his real story begins.

School was walking distance and so were the fun beach breaks at Pine Trees along with an assortment of reef breaks. While Turner claims he was never too enthusiastic to chase trophies, it became clear early on that Jacob was cut from a different cloth—more driven by adrenaline and deep barrels than heat wins or high scores.

Last winter was the real proving ground. He stepped into the gladiator pit—the North Shore of Oahu—and didn’t just survive; he excelled. His fearless positioning at Pipe turned heads, and not just for his age bracket but basically in the big leagues as well. I would not put him in a heat with Barron Mamiya, Kelly Slater or Jamie O'Brien quite yet, but this kid has got the teen division on lockdown!

Jacob may downplay competition, but make no mistake—he’s already one of the most respected young chargers coming up. And he’s humble about it. He entered the ISA Junior Team trials for Hawaii, one of the most competitive youth qualifiers in the world, and earned his spot on the Hawaii squad. I called him out on this. Like you don't rise to the top of the team trials with zero competitive ambitions, but he told me competing with the team is different, “It’s not just for me,” he told me. “It’s for Hawaii.”

So where did it all begin?

“I’m 17 now and living on the North Shore of Kauai, but I was born in Melbourne, Florida. My parents moved to Colorado when I was really little—like, toddler-age—then eventually back to Hawaii. I don’t remember much before Kauai. That’s where I really grew up.”

And your parents surfed?

“My dad definitely surfed. My mom didn’t surf much, but she’s always loved the ocean. They moved back to Florida for a bit, had me and my sister, then made the call to come back to Hawaii. I’m super lucky they did.”

So you’re growing up on Kauai, walking across the street after school to surf… sounds like a dream. “Yeah, pretty much. I had a tight crew of friends and we surfed every day after school.”

Was there a moment you knew surfing was more than just something to do after school?

“I don’t know the exact moment. I’ve seen videos of myself surfing the pier when I was tiny. But I think when I started chasing barrels more seriously—maybe around age 11—that’s when things clicked. Barrels became more interesting than contests.”

How did the move to Oahu happen?

“We’d go stay with friends. Legend (Chandler) and his family had a house there, so we’d just spend time on the North Shore. That’s where it got real.”

The Quiet Storm: Jacob Turner

What’s the energy shift like—from Kauai to the North Shore arena?

“Kauai is mellow, more about surfing for the love of it. But Oahu… it’s different. You’ve got pros everywhere, filmers on the beach, and every session feels like something’s on the line. It took some getting used to.”

You found your lane in the heavy stuff though—Pipe, Off The Wall, Teahupoʻo. Why go so hard so young?

“I think it’s the adrenaline. There’s this pull toward bigger, heavier barrels. And honestly, the crowd at Pipe is so gnarly, I started sitting deeper, where there’s less competition. It’s riskier, but that’s where the magic is.”

Who pushes you in the water?

“I’ve got a great crew. Guys like Legend and Manalu Chandler, Luke Tema, Steve Roberson… all of them push hard. We all feed off each other, especially at Pipe and other spots.”

Okay, let’s talk about competition. You say you’re not into it—but you just made the ISA Junior Hawaii Team. That’s huge.

“Yeah, it kind of just happened. I wasn’t even going to do the tryouts at first. But my friends convinced me. And once I got there, it became less about me and more about representing Hawaii. That felt different.”

MIKE ITO

Mike Ito is a self-taught surf and lifestyle photographer and art director based on Oʻahu, Hawaii. After leaving a high-paced corporate design career, he embraced creativity full-time to focus on what moves him—family, surfing, punk rock, and photography. His work, infused with a keen eye for light and shadow, has taken him across Australia, Indonesia, Mexico, New Zealand and beyond. As co-founder of Lost Not Found Magazine, he documents alternative surf craft, culture and people. Mike has created images for notable brands like Vans, Roxy and Surfline, with features in Surfer’s Journal, New York Times and more.

Makana Pang at Pipe during one of the busiest February's in 2025.

Morning spray, moments before the 2024/2025 Eddie Aikau Invitational start.

At the 2024 Buffalo Big Board Surfing

Keoni Keaulana performing “The Coffin” maneuver, one of ten maneuvers needed on each ride to achieve a high score during the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic

This old log was found in California a few years ago by a friend who happened to be surfing it at Bowls. He came straight to me and luckily I had my wide lens and fire only two frames. This shot was the hero shot for the 2021 WSL Longboard World Championship, the year Joel Tudor won his third title.

My favorite event at the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic, the wa’a division. When the waves are pumping, it can be total chaos or a thing of beauty, but either way, it’s always entertaining.

a critical drop at the 2024/2025

TEAHUPO'O

FIT FOR SURF SPINAL HEALTH IN THE LINEUP

FEATURING DR. ALI MESIWALA

BOARD-CERTIFIED SPORTS MEDICINE SPINE SURGEON

Surfing is often celebrated for its soul and flow, but at its core, it's a highly demanding physical endeavor, especially on the human spine. From paddling through the impact zone to executing powerful twisted maneuvers and enduring wipeouts, surfing taps nearly every joint and muscle in the body. Here, the “spinal tap” is on every ride.

In this installment of Fit for Surf, we catch up with Dr. Ali Mesiwala, a board-certified neurological spine surgeon who works with elite athletes, action sports professionals, and everyday surfers alike. Treating spinal issues ranging from mild disc strains to complex traumatic injuries, Dr. Mesiwala offers a learned perspective on what the spine goes through during surfing. “Most people don’t realize how physically complex surfing really is,” he explains. “You’re asking the spine to perform in extreme ranges of motion, often in very dynamic, unstable environments.”

Dr. Mesiwala breaks down the surf session into four key phases—paddling, popping up, maneuvering, and wipeouts—each posing its own challenges to spinal health. From hyperextension paddling to torque-heavy turns and the violent trauma of a wipeout, these movements can trigger or intensify a range of spine-related conditions.

Surfing may look fluid and effortless, but behind the scenes, your spine is working overtime. Dr. Ali Mesiwala reminds us that understanding how each phase of surfing affects spinal mechanics is critical to longevity in the sport. From the hyperextension of paddling to the explosive pop-up and dynamic twisting of maneuvers, surfers are constantly pushing the limits of their musculoskeletal system.

Q: What does the human spine experience while surfing?

Dr. Mesiwala: Surfing is a multi-phase sport that places unique demands on the spine. First, during paddling, your body is prone—lying face down, with your neck extended and back arched. This puts the spine in an unusual extended position. If there’s any nerve impingement or disc issue, it often becomes symptomatic during this phase. Surfers frequently complain of arm pain, stingers, or electric shock sensations just from paddling.

FIT FOR SURF

Q: What about the pop-up phase?

Dr. Mesiwala: The pop-up is a complex full-body movement requiring leg coordination, core strength, and spinal alignment. If you have issues in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine, this movement may become painful or even impossible.

Q: And once the surfer is up and riding?

Dr. Mesiwala: Now the spine must stabilize dynamically while making turns, bottom turns, and carving maneuvers. These motions demand rotation, flexion, and lateral stability. Minor spinal issues can really flare up here.

Q: What about injuries from wipeouts?

Dr. Mesiwala: Trauma is a big risk in surfing. A bad wipeout can cause significant spinal strain, disc herniations, or even vertebral fractures. This is where awareness, conditioning, and sometimes immediate medical intervention come into play.

Q: How can surfers prevent or manage spine injuries?

Dr. Mesiwala: Prevention starts with understanding the biomechanics and listening to your body. Not everyone needs surgery. Many issues respond well to physical therapy, rest, and rehab. But for more serious cases, seeing a sportsfocused spine specialist early is key.

The good news? Most spinal issues can be managed, treated, and even prevented with proper awareness and care. Whether it's physical therapy, targeted rehab, or advanced surgical options, today's sports medicine offers surfers a way back to the waves—stronger and more informed.

EcoClean Hawaii

Reef Realities, Review and Revival: Hawai‘i and Okinawa at the Frontier of Coral Science

By Kaea Latronic

When Koji Kinjo witnessed the devastation of Okinawa’s reef in 1998—nearly 90% bleaching—he didn’t wait for solutions to arrive. Instead, he sold his business and founded Sea Seed. We covered this in last September. If you recall, through relentless experimentation—at times high light, low sodium; other times, rebuffed by failures—he cultivated over 150,000 stresshardened corals that now anchor the seafloor. His success came with a hard-earned clarity: restoration requires adaptation, not idealism.

Recent scientific advances offer real momentum for restoration, with potential lessons for Hawai‘i’s reefs. Since last year, researchers have developed a biomimetic ink (a liquid compound that is designed to be compatible with nature) that improves coral larval settlement by over 20-fold, enabling faster nursery growth. At the same time, studies are pinpointing fluorescent pigments—like vivid greens and blues —as natural indicators of thermal resilience, strengthening breeding programs. In the Gulf region, coral populations once devastated by extreme heat are now actively regenerating, offering a promising sign that recovery can occur even after severe stress.

Closer to home, Hawai‘i researchers have found new methods for larval reseeding. Suspended settlement panels are showing success in reestablishing coral cover without damaging the reef making it less invasive, more efficient, and suited to our local conditions. Meanwhile, microbial therapies like introducing heat-tolerant algae and beneficial bacteria are proving helpful on the water’s edge. Even reef Helper crabs are being observed to aid in coral wound healing, demonstrating a multi-species approach to resilience.

Reef Realities, Review and Revival: Hawai‘i and Okinawa at the Frontier of Coral Science

Yet as tools improve, the environmental backdrop grows harsher. A July 2025 study from UH Mānoa forecasts unprecedented ocean acidification in Hawai‘i’s nearshore waters by mid-century—even under moderate CO₂ emissions. This chemical shift will hinder coral’s ability to build skeletons, undermining the hard work of restoration. We’ve already seen evidence: reefs in Papua New Guinea, altered by acidification, are losing complexity, biodiversity, and the fish that depend on them. The added stress of freshwater runoff containing pollution weakens coral proteins, and the challenge becomes clear: temperature, chemistry, and human activity are converging in ways Earth’s reefs have never faced.

The premise of success is far from over. In Indonesia, reef scaffolding has reached full carbonate formation in just four years after restoration. Local techniques, like eDNA monitoring and drone-based mapping, are landing in Hawai‘i too— offering real-time feedback on reef health and early detection of trouble. At the molecular level, microscopic studies are now guiding when and where larval corals are most likely to thrive after settlement.

All of these innovations, from Okinawa’s stress-conditioned transplants to Hawai‘i’s growing toolkit, must be woven together. Restoration won’t succeed on its own. It needs clean water, reduced emissions, and locally informed management. It requires that we think of reefs as integrated ecosystemsand not just coral skeletons. They are living cityscape for fish, microbes, invertebrates -and treat them accordingly.

Kinjo’s words mirror our reality in Hawai‘i: “As soon as we believed in the coral, they overcame the obstacles. Animals aren’t as fragile as we think. If we are optimistic, nature will meet us in the middle.”

The science now affirms his belief. We have the tools, the knowledge, and—most importantly—the reefs worth saving beneath our waves. It’s time to bring everything together and turn promise into resilience.

@images_by_ne14fn

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MOLLY PICKLUM AND JACK ROBINSON WIN 2025 LEXUS TAHITI PRO PRESENTED BY I-SEA AT TEAHUPO’O

Australians Molly Picklum and Jack Robinson have claimed victory at the Lexus Tahiti Pro, the final event of the regular season before the 2025 World Surf League (WSL) Finals. The event, held in six-to-eight-foot-plus tubes at Teahupo’o, crowned the winners, finalized the men’s Final 5, and named the Rookies of the Year.

Molly Picklum secured her fourth career Championship Tour (CT) victory, defeating reigning World Champion Caity Simmers in the final. Picklum’s win, her second of the season, solidifies her No. 1 ranking heading into the WSL Finals. She defeated former event winners Vahine Fierro and Caroline Marks on her way to the final, extending her commanding lead. Picklum’s final heat was dominant, with a 17.26 total, while Simmers struggled.

Jack Robinson secured a fairytale finish, winning the event and claiming a spot in the Final 5 to contest for the 2025 World Title. This win marks a repeat of his 2023 season, where a Tahiti victory also clinched his Final 5 spot. Robinson's ninth CT event win ties him with Sunny Garcia and John John Florence on the all-time win list. He defeated good friend and rival Griffin Colapinto in the final with a 16.90 total, bumping fellow Australian Ethan Ewing out of the Final 5.

With the conclusion of the Tahiti Pro, the Final 5 are now officially locked in. Yago Dora will head into the Lexus WSL Finals as the No. 1 seed, followed by Jordy Smith, Griffin Colapinto, Jack Robinson, and Italo Ferreira. On the women’s side, the top-ranked surfers heading into the Finals are Molly Picklum (No. 1), Caitlin Simmers (No. 2), and Caroline Marks (No. 3). Picklum is the only woman of the current Final 5 with prior WSL Finals experience.

CT newcomers Erin Brooks and Marco Mignot were crowned the 2025 WSL Championship Tour Rookies of the Year. Mignot finished the year as the highest-ranked male rookie, while 18-year-old Brooks, who won a CT event as a wildcard, ended the year at No. 8 on the rankings.

Lexus Tahiti Pro Presented by I-SEA Women’s Final Results:

1 – Molly Picklum (AUS) 17.26

2 – Caitlin Simmers (USA) 4.94

Lexus Tahiti Pro Presented by I-SEA Men’s Final Results:

1 – Jack Robinson (AUS) 16.90

2 – Griffin Colapinto (USA) 13.67

HIC GOLF SCRAMBLE

An exceptional day of golf for a great cause unfolded at the HIC Surf Golf Scramble. The event successfully raised an impressive $25,000 to support local amateur surfing, with all proceeds benefiting the Hawaii Amateur Surfing Association (HASA) Oahu chapter. The tournament brought together community members, sponsors, and surf enthusiasts for a fun-filled day on the green, all dedicated to empowering the next generation of surfers.

The highlight of the day came on the sixth hole, where Sean Moody, celebrated a spectacular achievement. A representative from the company sank a remarkable hole-in-one, electrifying the atmosphere and adding a memorable moment to the already successful event.

A heartfelt mahalo was extended to the numerous sponsors whose generous support made the event possible. The list includes Billabong USA, OluKai, Quiksilver, RVCA, Rip Curl, Reef, Hurley, O'Neill USA, Florence Marine X, Melin, and Volcom. Local businesses also contributed significantly, including Byodo-In Hawaii, Kreedom Eyewear, Sunbelt Rentals, Lynden Incorporated, AVVA Brand, and Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Their collective commitment underscored the community's dedication to fostering local talent and a love for the ocean.

INDUSTRY NOTES

2025 RIP CURL CUP PADANG PADANG

At Padang Padang, 16-year-olds Westen Hirst (Lakey Peak) and Jasmine Studer (Kuta) won in flawless six-foot barrels. Studer scored a perfect 10 and 8.17, edging Willow Hardy’s 9 and 8.33. Hirst opened the men’s final with a 9.9 and sealed it with a 7.33 over Ketut Agus. The inviteonly event drew stars like Mason Ho and Ivan Florence. Both champions expressed deep ties to the wave. Perfect conditions showcased elite tube riding and Indonesia’s rising surf talent.

WSL ANNOUNCES MAJOR FORMAT CHANGES FOR 2026 CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR

The 2026 WSL Championship Tour will have nine regularseason stops, two post-season events, and a finale at Banzai Pipeline. All 36 men and 24 women surf the first nine events, with top performers advancing to Abu Dhabi and Peniche. Rankings will use a surfer’s best nine of 12 results, with the Pipe Masters worth 15,000 points. The schedule includes Bells Beach, Teahupoo, and Cloudbreak. Head-to-head heats, wildcard entries, and shifting seeds remain. Practice days are planned, but the complex format and point system continue.

SAWYER LINDBLAD AND LEVI SLAWSON WIN LEXUS US OPEN OF SURFING

Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson won the 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach. Lindblad, 19, claimed her second title, cementing her place on the 2026 CT. Slawson earned his first Challenger Series win over Mateus Herdy, rising to No. 4 in rankings. Fourteen-year-old Tya Zebrowski placed second in the women’s final and leads the rankings. Mateus Herdy moved to No. 2. The event featured intense finals and strong performances from both international and domestic talent.

KELLY SLATER JOINS WME TALENT AGENCY

Kelly Slater, 53, signed with William Morris Endeavor, joining a roster with Ben Affleck and Dua Lipa. WME will handle deals, endorsements, licensing, PR, and marketing, while his manager Terry Hardy oversees daily matters.

Slater’s 11 world titles, Laureus awards, X Games golds, and ESPY nominations, along with ventures like Outerknown and Kelly Slater Wave Company, position him for expanded opportunities in entertainment, sports, and media. The move marks a strategic step in shaping his post-competition career.

KOLBY AIPA TRAGICALLY DIES IN E-BIKE ACCIDENT

Kolby Aipa, 20, grandson of surfboard shaper Ben Aipa, died August 5, 2025, after an e-bike accident in Huntington Beach. Towed by a car, he lost control and was struck by the same vehicle. He died three days later at UCI Medical Center. Son of Duke and Val Aipa, Kolby managed Huntington Surf & Sport. Remembered for his generosity and aloha spirit, his family urged others to “pass his Aloha on.” A GoFundMe has supported the family as the accident investigation continues.

DALE WEBSTER, WHO SURFED EVERY DAY FOR 40 YEARS, DIES AT 77

Dale “Daily Dale” Webster surfed 14,641 consecutive days, a Guinness World Record.

Starting in 1975 at Bodega Bay, he caught at least three waves daily for over 40 years, totaling 43,923 confirmed rides. He surfed through illness, injury, cold water, and sharks. Featured in Step Into Liquid and praised by Kelly Slater, his streak ended in 2015 after minor surgery. Born in 1948 in Alhambra, California, he began stand-up surfing at 13. Webster died in August 2025 at 76, leaving a legacy of total dedication to surfing.

STUFF WE LIKE

LOCAL MOTION KALO CAMO UMBRELLA

With auto-open and close, this gorgeous kalo print umbrella will pack easily with your summer beach gear keeping your spot in the sand cool, or easily fend off unpredictable Hawaiian summer showers.

localmotionhawaii.com

KONA BREWING LILIKO‘I KEA WITBIER

Introducing our newest brew: Liliko‘i Kea Witbier. Inspired by the wild beauty of Kaua‘i’s legendary Nā Pali Coast. Bursting with tropical passion fruit, grains of paradise, and coriander, Liliko‘i Kea is bright, refreshing, and ready to whisk you away to paradise. Hitting store shelves across Hawai‘i soon!

konabrewinghawaii.com

CROWD CONTROL HOT SAUCE

Crowd Control Boards has released a hot sauce with RinCon Heat: coconut, mango and habañero flavor notes pair well with literally anything, and keep wayward hands away from your plate! Consider it culinary crowd control.

crowdcontrolsurf.com/hot-sauce

PELAGIC WOMEN’S NAPLES REVERSIBLE

a four way stretch quick dry fabric, adjustable straps to stay secure and stain repellent— this one-piece is a great addition to your ocean outfitting toolkit, secure and stain repellent, PFA free and available in a gorgeous blue reversible pattern.

pelagicgear.com

LAST LOOK

Empty Pipeline. Pure power. A reminder of what’s coming as we look ahead to the next North Shore surf season.

Photo Brent Bielmann

QUENTIN TURKO