This post is clearly way over due… But, better late than never. Parker wrote a legendary piece about Sunset, which is no surprise because he has proven himself time and time again to be a better brother and best friend than anyone could ever ask for. But, I figured I should do at least a wee post about that contest.
After Haleiwa, I had this feeling that it was going to happen at sunset. Parker said it, but I had felt it. “you weren’t meant to qualify at Haleiwa without any of us there, you’re saving it until the last event of the year when all of your family and friends are there.” That was a direct quote from parker after I lost the heat i needed to make at Haleiwa.
Later that day, I paddled out at sunset and enjoyed every moment and intricacy of the session. I started surfing sunset every day no matter the conditions and just tried to connect with Sunset. Pancho Sullivan, Ian Walsh, and Joel Centeio all gave me tremendous advice and little nuggets that helped sooooo much leading up to the event.
When the contest started I was just focusing on going out, trying to catch some decent waves, and enjoying every moment of my opportunity to qualify. From my first heat, I could tell it was one of those contests where the small little things were going my way and they kept going my way. I was enjoying the experience so much that it took all of the nerves away and I was able to play in every heat and every day throughout the whole event. My family was on the beach and my brother was caddying for me every heat. My favorite part of the whole event was seeing my brother paddling my way with a huge grin on his face every time i would kick out of a good wave.
Once the last day started everything felt like it was falling into place and sure enough, it did. When i lost the semi to Mick in the last 10 seconds, I had a sinking feeling that I had came up just short. I didn’t know the math behind the deal, but everyone was telling me that because I got third in the heat (fifth overall) I had for sure qualified. I guess I just didn’t trust anyone until the contest was over and it was 150 % true, but I can tell you it was a surreal and emotional moment for me. It’s been a dream of mine to be on the world tour ever since i was a little kid and i’m so excited for this year. I can’t thank my friends, family, and sponsors enough for all of the love and support. It sure has been an amazing ride thus far and i’m grateful for every moment of it.
