In September when I attended my first Surf competition in Hermosa Beach I saw ads for the Rip Curl Pro Search Somewhere in San Francisco and I knew had to attend. After checking the event out more I came to find that Kelly Salter was lined up to clinch his 11th World Title -- umm SICKNESS. I knew I had to be there to witness it, and I sure did.
I headed out Tuesday to watch the event solo and the weather was perfect and the waves were amazing. Ocean Beach felt like anything but San Francisco and as a Native Bay girl I was proud that San Francisco was being showcased in way that's anything but what you normally picture. Eighty degrees on the beach up North?
Yup it happens this time of the year.
Kelly didn't get a chance to clinch on Tuesday, so yesterday Gigi and I headed back out and watched history go down as Kelly shredded the waves up and then was awarded his 11th world title. It was one of those moments and events that I'll never forget and I am so glad I made the effort to go (the feeling reminded me a bit like going to the World Series Parade, which I also went to solo). Gigi and I got to watch Kelly Slater accept the title from the VIP lounge, thanks to Gigi's friends Lindsey and Andy (of San Franpyscho) and we got to go an awesome after party. It was an amazing day to say the least!!
I believe you're never too old to remember what you loved as a kid and teenager. And you're never too old to live out your dreams.
Yesterday I was not only able to only check "seeing Kelly Slater surf in person" off my bucket list, I also witnessed sports and surfing history.
I'm a California Dreamer, alright. And if you're not already living your dream, go dream and LIVE!!