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Pipeline shows no mercy, yet those who charge it find a strength they never knew they had.

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

EDITOR'S NOTE

By Mike Latronic

For surfers, the change of seasons is always an exciting time. Summer carries its own rhythm: long days, southern swells born from distant storms, and an unmistakable sense of freedom. The kids are out of school, the water warms, and shorelines buzz with the carefree energy of summer. Whether you’re posted up at your local break or venturing abroad on a surf safari, that three-month window feels like an open invitation to chase opportunity and waves.

But as the philosopher Heraclitus reminded us, “Change is the only constant in life,” and autumn reveals that truth. On land, the bloom of summer shifts into crisp air, falling leaves, and shorter days. Here in Hawai‘i and across much of the Pacific, the trade winds grow cooler and more insistent, signaling transition. Offshore, the Southern Hemisphere swells that have fueled our summery fun begin to fade, gradually giving way to the first pulses of energy from the west and north. In surf lore, fall is the drumroll before the curtain rises — time to dust off your winter quivers, reset your mind for more consequential endeavors, and prepare for the ocean’s more serious moods.

This issue of FreeSurf Magazine mirrors that cycle of anticipation. We highlight a few distant surf adventures in our feature “Frequent Flyer,” while also celebrating the talent growing right here at home with profiles of Chesney Guinotte and Khalil Schooley — two young local surfers whose momentum reflects the new season’s promise. You’ll also find coverage of the 2025 Hawai‘i Junior Surf Team, a lively recap of Longboarding goodness at Waikīkī’s USurf Cup, plus updates on the surf industry, environmental wins, and our regular push to surface more good news in the lineup of life. Enjoy the read.

U-SURF CUP 2025 went down September 19-21 at Kuhio Beach Park in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, and was a huge success. The event brought together a strong field of longboarders and highlighted the next generation of talent. Organized by U-SURF CUP by Shutaku, it served as more than a contest. It was a surf festival that celebrated community and youth development.

Competition began each morning at 8:00 a.m. with tightly run heats that kept the action moving throughout the day. The divisions featured surfers of all ages, from the youngest keiki in the Kokua Boys and Girls to older youth categories. The structure gave surfers valuable experience and kept spectators engaged with constant activity in the water.

Standout performances came from names such as Kea Chung, Sadie Gold, Griffin Schmalfeldt, Woody Brown, Knox Oliveira, and Jax Gold, who all secured top results in their divisions. Their surfing demonstrated both technical skill and style, showing how bright the future of longboarding is in Hawaiʻi.

Crowds lined Kuhio Beach to cheer on friends, family, and local favorites. Special shoutout to organizer Daniel Uchimura. The event’s energy reflected the aloha spirit, and by the end of the weekend, U-SURF CUP 2025 had firmly established itself as a highlight of the surfing calendar.

RESULTS

LB Keiki Girls (10 and Under)

1. Gigi Stedman

2. Keenah Fujimura

3. Tehilah Amir

4. Lucy Slye

5. Zodiac Coulter

6. Rhea Mosk

LB Keiki Boys (10 and Under)

1. Kenta Uchimura

2. Kama Miranda

3. Kahekili Denson

4. Rowan Nixon

5. Sasuke Fuchie

6. Itzhak Amir

LB Youth Boys (11-13)

1. Kaniela Miranda

2. Yoni Amir

3. Reef Adams

4. Jaizen Jo Puahi

LB Youth Girls (11-13)

1. Sarasa Ishibashi

2. Kealia Sallas

3. Malayna Schiffner

4. Emma Colandrea

LB Jr. Boys (14-17)

1. Alex Ranne

2. Poʻi Tomas

3. Anthony-Thomas Kuhia Jr.

4. Phoenix Rose

LB Jr. Girls (14-17)

1. Sunny-Ray Hong

2. Puaiohi DeFries

3. Shore Hong

4. Taylor Kini

Mahalo to all our loyal customers and fr iends, old and new,

Chesney Guinotte

By Kaea Latronic

Hawaiʻi has long been a cradle for surfing prodigies—youthful talents who announce themselves early, rewrite expectations, and shape the sport’s future. Think of Coco Ho, charging through HASA heats before most kids her age had mastered their bottom turn, climbing into NSSA finals at 12, and qualifying for the World Tour at 17 where she clinched Rookie of the Year. Or Carissa Moore, who stacked eleven NSSA National titles and an ISA World Junior Championship by 14 before storming the Championship Tour to claim multiple world crowns. Malia Manuel broke through the sport’s glass ceiling at just 14, stunning the world as the youngest ever U.S. Open Champion. Even Lani Doherty showed how Hawaiʻi’s next generation could dominate, claiming both the Junior and Women’s divisions in one sweep at 15.

Each of these surfers carried the same rare mix: fearlessness, refined skill far beyond their years, and an inner drive that propelled them toward the world surfing mainstage. They weren’t just talented groms—they were markers of a generational pulse, signaling Hawaiʻi’s position as the heartbeat of women’s surfing.

Now, another signal is flashing. At 16, Chesney Guinotte is stepping into that same current. She represents a new wave of surfers who aren’t just following in those footsteps but carving out their own and throwing spray in the process. Guinotte already carries herself with the polish of a professional, even while juggling the schoolwork, travel, and turbulence of teenage life. I caught up with her just as she was boarding a flight, and even in those quick exchanges her mix of professionalism, stoke, and clear-eyed ambition was evident. She’s not just cutting her teeth on local sessions. For any teenager, rubbing rails at Pipeline with world-class inspirations would be a dream; for Chesney, it was a signpost that she belongs in those lineups. Her goals confirm it. She even frames one of her biggest ambitions not in trophies, but in mastery: to be known as an epic Pipe surfer. The break she now calls her favorite, famously challenging Sunset Beach truly says something about her trajectory. Sunset has long been a benchmark of power, positioning, and courage, and Guinotte is already finding joy in hitting its heavy sections.

In Chesney Guinotte, you see the familiar spark that has kept Hawaiʻi at the center of women’s surfing—but you also see something fresh: a teen with poise, ambition, and perspective, ready to write her own chapter in the story of women’s sports.

KL: When did you start surfing?

CG: I started surfing when I was seven.

KL: Who taught you?

CG: My dad is military so was gone a lot and during the

summer when I was out of school my mom would drop me off on her way to work to Barber’s Point beach. One of my aunties was a lifeguard there and she taught me how to surf.

KL: Who do you like to paddle out with for free surfing sessions?

CG: Any of my friends.

KL: Best/most memorable day surfing, so far:

CG: Probably sharing heats with Caity [Simmers], Moana [Jones-Wong], and Zoë [McDougall] at the Vans Pipe masters. That was a super cool experience and I was stoked to be able to share a line-up with some of the women who inspire me at one of the best waves in the world.

KL: Tell me a little about your favorite spot

CG: My favorite spot is Sunset. Sunset can definitely be a very challenging wave but I think that’s what makes it so much fun for me. Hitting a big section is always fun too.

KL: What spot do you consider your home break? What about it keeps you going back?

CG: My home break is Rocky Point. I live right there so it’s easy for me to go out and check it whenever I want. Rockies is also just such a rippable wave and allows for a little bit of everything.

KL: Why do you compete?

CG: I compete because I would consider myself a super competitive person and I really enjoy being able to work towards something and to be able to have the satisfaction of winning after putting in work feels awesome.

KL: What are your goals, and dreams for the near future? And the big picture?

CG: For the near future I have some regional QS’s coming up so I would like to come out of the season with some good

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Chesney Guinotte

results and hopefully even some wins. I’m also looking forward to getting some bigger barrels at Pipe this winter. For the big picture, obviously like to win a couple world titles and some gold medals. I think being an epic Pipe surfer is also one of my biggest goals. I’m also working towards graduating high school with my Associates Degree and would later like to go to law school.

KL: That's totally badass. Who inspires you?

CG: John John is definitely someone that is a big inspiration for me, I think his style is unmatched. I also really look up to Coco Ho not only because of her style but because of everything she also does out of the water.

KL: That’s fantastic, haha, I attended SBES with John John. What would you say is your best trait? What about your worst?

CG: I’d like to say I have a good sense of humor.

I think my worst is that I’m super stubborn, but I also think that can be a good thing sometimes because I feel confident to stand my ground when I feel strongly about something.

KL: Tell me about your routine before a contest

CG: I like to show up a few hours early to watch the waves and make sure all of my equipment is ready. I’ll listen to some music while I do a stretch to warm up. And then I’ll grab my jersey and paddle out.

KL: How would you describe your personal clothing style?

KL: What kinda music do you like to jam?

CG: I’m really into R&B and alternative music. Steve Lacy and Gorillaz are probably my favorite artists.

KL: Share favorite post surf grinds

CG: Nothing is better than an Arizona [iced tea] after a surf and Pūpūkea Grill’s spicy ahi hand roll.

KL: Would you share what grounds you, what brings you back to center?

CG: My family and losing a comp, haha.

KL: Words of advice to a grom who wants to start competing?

CG: Don’t take it too serious at first, just have fun and surf with friends.

CG: I think I'm pretty out-there sometimes with what I wear haha. Definitely like animal prints. I think the most important part about my style is the jewelry I wear. I love gold.

KL: I’ve worked as a jeweler for 10 years, I can appreciate that... Favorite maneuver?

CG: I like getting barreled.

KL: Why is it your favorite maneuver?

CG: Because I don’t think there is any other feeling like getting barreled and it’s such an accomplishing feeling when you make it out.

KL: What amps you up, gets you fired up?

CG: Big waves, barrels, surf trips, and winning.

Let’s be honest: I’m at least twice Chesney’s age, yet hearing her speak about stubbornness as both a flaw and a strength struck me as wisdom well beyond her sixteen years. That kind of selfawareness—paired with her drive to compete, her joy in free surfing—is rare in anyone still in high school.

What makes Guinotte compelling isn’t just her surfing résumé. It’s a balance of competitive fire with maturity beyond her years, I especially admired the way she reframed setbacks. For Chesney, losing isn’t failure; it’s perspective, balance. She laughs at how losing a contest keeps her grounded, defeat flipped into fuel. To embrace loss as a grounding experience, or as the kids say, to take an L…. You know what, I said I’d be honest: I truly don’t know what the kids say. What I do know is that her outlook, combined with ambition to be an epic Pipe surfer, and her genuine love for surfing, makes it clear she’s not just another promising grom. She’s part of a new generation of athletes from Hawai’i carrying the torch with both excellence and integrity.

It was a privilege to glimpse her mindset, her humor, and her heart. And it leaves me excited for the horizon ahead.

Chesney Guinotte is just one of many young surfers reshaping the future of the sport, and here at FreeSurf Magazine we’re committed to shining a light on these rising stars. Stay tuned—there are more stories of brilliance, grit, and stoke to come.

INTERNATIONAL

Getaway

Saltwater wanderers know the pull of distant coastlines. This feature brings together four corners of the surf world, each with its own rhythm, culture, and wave. From Ireland’s cold Atlantic slabs, where cliffs tower over dark reefs, to Fiji’s tropical passes that draw the world’s best. From Tahiti’s raw Teahupo’o walls that demand commitment, to Indonesia’s endless archipelago of barrels where time seems suspended.

Through the lenses of Ryan “Chachi” Craig, Brian Bielmann, Brent Bielmann, and Renato Tinoco, we see more than waves. Each frame captures a sense of place, a meeting of land, sea, and spirit. Their images remind us why surf travel is never only about surfing. It is about chasing swells across the globe, testing limits, and returning with moments etched in light and water.

These photographs are invitations. To witness. To respect. To go.

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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

In my humble opinion the Best surfer ever at Teahupoo, Matahi Drollet

The Fabulous Leandro Dora. Break on through to the other side.

BRIAN BIELMANN

I went back to Tahiti with a specific plan, to shoot the upcoming swell at Teahupoo from the boat, which I consider the best way to shoot it when its huge and than shoot the smaller surf from underwater when the swell dropped. It worked out perfectly with the absolute clearest water which makes the visibility the best. We also ended up going over to Moorea at the last minute and I was lucky enough to photograph the whales, that was a bonus and I can honestly say Mission accomplished.

A large humpback patiently posing for me

Here we are shooting from the boat getting possibly a little too close to a breaking wave in Teahupoo. Thats Tim Mckenna, myself(white Jacket)my buddy Tim Whitfield and Mike Prickett hiding under the tarp working thru a computer while his monster camera gets all the gold. Photo Ryan "Chachi" Craig

IRELAND

if you're fortunate enough to see the sun pop out in the late afternoon in Ireland, it's some of the most dramatic light a photographer could dream of. Pair that light with a talented surfer like Lourenço Borges de Sousa and a shallow left hand slab and the results are everything you could hope for as a photographer.

Mullaghmore was even more impressive in person than all the videos I've watched over the years.

RYAN "CHACHI" CRAIG

What's up with Ireland?! My best friend that I grew up with now lives there and I was long overdue for a visit to the Emerald Isle. With some of the best bodyboarding waves on the planet, Ireland is a country near and dear to my heart. After taking an 11 year hiatus between trips, I decided to post up for a couple months and hopefully score those magical windows that often only happen when you're willing to wait out the storms and stick around the same place for a while. It is said that it's the people that make a place and nothing could be more true with Ireland. It was amazing to catch up with so many old friends as well as meet new onesIreland is certainly one of my favorite places on earth.

Johnny Casey inching his toes closer to the nose in Lahinch.

The Irish pub scene is simply incredible!

INDONESIA

Desert Point magic hour. This is when the point turns on!

RENATO TINOCO

Ive been going to Indonesia for almost 3 decades and Ive seen it drastically change in that time.The amount of tourist, the traffic and even the lifestyle of the local people, It seems sometimes everything has changed, everything except the waves.Indonesia has hands down some of the greatest surf in the world, I love shooting Desert point in Lombok and Padang Padang in Bali. I feel alive in Bali, its heaven on earth.

The perfect Padang Padang barrel

Desert Point last light, slow shutter

somewhere in between Tahiti and Fiji, August 2025

Jack and Julia

Family business

BRENT BIELMANN

I was fortunate to spend two weeks in Fiji with my close friend Jack Robinson, his wife Julia, and their young son Zen. Jack was there to compete in the WSL Final 5 at Cloudbreak, ultimately finishing fifth after a long season. His victory in Tahiti had secured his spot, and this event was the culmination of his year. Beyond the competition, I stayed with them on Tavarua Island, experiencing island life, family time, and the warmth of Fiji’s culture. It was a special opportunity to document both the intensity of the tour and the quieter, personal moments in between.

Jack sharpening his lines

Can you remember the first time you rode a wave? Who was there? What happened? And how is it affecting your future?

What was it like growing up in Hawaii?

I can't remember my first wave exactly, but the first memory I have of surfing was probably with my dad, tandem surfing at Launiupoko on the west side of Maui. I was about two at the time, and I remember being so little that my arms couldn't even reach around the sides of the board.

The first time I remember standing up on my own was in Kihei on a sushi board. My mom was filming and my dad was pushing me in, and I remember that was a big turning point for me. All those positive memories have given me a deep love for the sport and made me want to pursue surfing. Growing up in Hawaii, we went to the beach almost every day, and I was able to meet friends who I would later go on to compete against.

What is surfing to you: a sport, a job, or a lifestyle?

For me, surfing is a passion, a sport, and a little bit of a job. I really just do it for the passion of it. Surfing is a way for me to express myself and just be free. I'm the happiest I could be when I'm surfing. The things that come along with it—like traveling the world, getting clothes, or winning competitions— are just a bonus. I love competing, so it's a sport and a passion combined.

How often do you surf? If you didn't surf, what would you do with your time?

Compared to a lot of my friends who are homeschooled, I surf way less. I go to a full-time school with a lot of homework, so I probably surf four to five days a week. It’s kind of a good thing because I don’t think I'll get burnt out as fast on the competitions. I'm still super stoked for even the smallest events. When I'm not surfing, I'm probably doing homework.

If I didn't surf at all, I would spend more time on schoolwork and probably do another ocean-related activity.

Let's talk surf. Is being in the tube your happy place? Why? What's your take on surf adventures, properly waxing your board, using the channel, and crowd etiquette?

I love being in the barrel, but I wouldn't say it's my happy place. My happy place is when I land a massive air or an insane turn in front of my friends and see them all surprised. When that happens, I'm the happiest person in the world.

My take on traveling is that it's probably one of the coolest things ever. It's really positive for surfers to go see different cultures and waves.

As for properly waxing your board, everyone has a personal preference, but it annoys me when people only wax where their feet go. I wax my board all the way to the nose because I've lost heats in the past because my foot slipped on an unwaxed section when I was trying to land an air.

Being from Lahaina Harbor and Pavilions, I think it's really important to know how to use the channel. It’s always really annoying when you're on a wave and people are paddling out through the impact zone and getting in your way.

Finally, with crowd etiquette, it's so important. When everyone uses it, sessions are so much more fun. When people are being "eggy," it just puts everyone in a bad mood.

Can you list your three favorite surf spots and why?

My first favorite surf spot would be Lahaina Harbor. A lot of my progression came from surfing there. The wave is a perfect wave pool, and it's been cool to get back there after the fires.

My second favorite spot is Ho'okipa. There's almost always something there, and it's good for practicing turns and airs. People say if you can surf at Ho'okipa, you can surf anywhere else.

My third favorite is a "secret spot." It's a spot in town that's really good for airs. The winds are perfect, and no one really

DINE LIKE A LEGEND KAÅHLIL PIÑERES SCHOOLEY

surfs it. My mom doesn't want me to go because it's really sharky and there are a lot of jellyfish, but it's probably my favorite wave in the world, even though it sucks.

Who are your three favorite surfers and why?

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My first favorite is Uncle Jado from Pavilions at Ho'okipa. He probably has the best style on the island. My number two pick is a tie between Matt Meola and Albee Layer. They've both immensely progressed surfing in both big waves and airs. I grew up watching their movies and probably memorized the soundtrack to their film Attractive Distractions.

My third favorite surfer is also a tie between Gabriel Medina and Yago Dora. If I had to pick one, it would probably be Medina. I love how explosive his surfing is. His heat strategy, competitiveness, and aggression in a contest are something I definitely look up to.

What are your thoughts on Kelly Slater, John John Florence, Jamie O'Brien, and Jack Robinson? Are you particular about your style as well as your performance? How important is style to you?

Kelly Slater is the G.O.A.T. I just wish that when he got a wildcard into a WSL event, he would ride some of his vintage boards. John John Florence is definitely a top-three surfer of all time. I feel like if he never had his injuries, he would have around five world titles by now. Jamie O'Brien is someone I grew up watching in his vlogs. Jack Robinson is a cool surfer, and his barrel-riding technique is some of the best in the world.

I personally am not really particular or careful about my own style. I think it comes naturally. My opinion on the importance of style is that if it's not coming naturally, you shouldn't be doing it. You can tell surfers who try to be stylish from those who actually are. Style makes everyone's surfing unique, and I don't think you should change it. It's just like your personality—you shouldn't change who you are to be anyone else. It’s the same with surfing.

U18 GIRLS

The Hawaii Surf Team is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to perpetuating the Hawaiian sport of surfing. Known as the "Ambassadors of Aloha," the team provides an opportunity for the state's most elite surfing athletes to compete on an international stage at the ISA World Championships. In this Olympic-sanctioned competition, they face off against competitors from more than 45 countries. The team's mission is to not only develop Hawaii's up-andcoming athletes but also to progress the sport, protect the culture, and share the Aloha Spirit with the world.

The Hawaii Surf Team has a rich history, having been a major force in competitive surfing since the first International Surfing Association (ISA) world championships in 1964. The team holds a unique status as a separate competing nation, which instills a strong sense of pride and kuleana (responsibility) in its members. This long tradition of success includes numerous gold medals and individual world championships, helping to launch the careers of many young athletes while preserving the cultural heritage of the sport.

U18 BOYS

A SANCTUARY IN THE PACIFIC: GOOD NEWS FROM THE MARSHALL ISLANDS

By Kaea Latronic

In a world where news often leans toward the bleak, the recent establishment of the Marshall Islands’ first national marine sanctuary offers a rare and welcome exception. Spanning 48,000 square kilometers, it encompasses the remote Bikar and Bokak Atolls, two of the country’s northernmost and untouched ecosystems. This designation marks a significant commitment to marine conservation, safeguarding vital habitats and species for future generations.

The coral reefs surrounding Bikar and Bokak are among the healthiest in the central and western Pacific. A 2023 expedition led by National Geographic Pristine Seas, in collaboration with the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority and local scientists, documented prolific marine life to depths of 2,340 meters. The team observed vibrant coral communities, abundant giant clams, and diverse fish populations, providing a glimpse into what the ocean could look like if truly allowed to thrive. These reefs serve as a baseline for understanding marine ecosystems in their natural state, away from the impacts of overfishing and pollution.

Beyond their ecological value, Bikar and Bokak Atolls are home to significant populations of green sea turtles and seabirds. Bokak supports up to 26 species of breeding seabirds, including the brown booby, red-footed booby, and great frigatebird. Bikar hosts the country’s largest green turtle nesting colony. They play a crucial role in the life cycles of these species, offering safe havens for nesting and feeding.

The creation of the sanctuary is part of the Marshall Islands’ Reimaanlok Conservation Framework, which emphasizes community-led management and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern science. This holistic approach ensures that conservation efforts are both effective and culturally resonant, reflecting the deep connection between the Marshallese people and their ocean environment.

Closer to home, Hawaiʻi has long recognized the importance of marine conservation. Efforts such as the establishment of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and the Aloha+ Challenge demonstrate the state’s commitment to protecting its ocean resources. These initiatives are not abstract policies—they safeguard the habitats of ʻiwa and boobies that fly over the waves, honu that return to nest on familiar shores, the endangered Hawaiian monk seal who haunts quiet beaches. Long before Cook arrived, Native Hawaiians understood that land, sea, and people are inextricable to the wellness of each other. Their practice of mālama ʻāina embodied a worldview that was both spiritual and ecological, guiding sustainable harvests and fostering resilience.

The Marshall Islands’ initiative serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to safeguard our marine environments and the potential for positive change when communities come together to act. In a time when the ocean often feels under siege, the establishment of this sanctuary offers a refreshing dose of optimism. It underscores the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity and the critical role that protected areas play in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. The Marshall Islands’ dedication to conservation provides a model for other nations and communities, illustrating that with commitment and collaboration, we can make a meaningful impact on the future of our oceans.

AUSTRALIA CROWNED TEAM WORLD CHAMPION AT THE 2025 SURF CITY EL SALVADOR ISA WORLD SURFING GAMES

Australia's national surfing team was crowned Team World Champion at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador ISA World Surfing Games. The event, held in pumping four-to-six-foot waves at La Bocana, saw Dane Henry (AUS) and Janire Gonzalez-Etxabarri (ESP) win the men’s and women’s individual gold medals, respectively.

Australia’s team victory was a historic one, breaking a 14-year drought to win their sixth team gold medal. This win was secured by Henry’s gold medal performance, along with bronze medals from Morgan Cibilic (AUS) and Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS). Henry's victory made him the first man in the modern era to win the event as the reigning ISA World Junior Champion, a feat last accomplished by Tom Curren (USA) in 1982.

Gonzalez-Etxabarri’s win marked Spain’s first-ever WSG gold medal, and it was the biggest win of her career. The 20-year-old, who qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics last year, was ecstatic after her victory. "It's like I'm sleeping in a dream and all of this is not real," she said.

The event, which brought together surfers from around the world, was praised by ISA President Fernando Aguerre and El Salvador Minister of Tourism Morena Valdez for its role in fostering friendships and promoting the sport globally. Aguerre noted that the event fulfills Duke Kahanamoku's dream of surfing becoming an Olympic sport, while Valdez emphasized that for El Salvador, surfing is a path to social, economic, and human development.

- Gold Medal Photo ISA /Jersson Barboza

RESULTS

Team

Gold – Australia

Silver – Peru

Bronze – Spain

Copper – France

Men

Gold – Dane Henry (AUS)

Silver – Kauli Vaast (FRA)

Bronze – Morgan Cibilic (AUS)

Copper – Douglas Silva (BRA)

Women

Gold – Janire Gonzalez-Etxabarri (ESP)

Silver – Yolanda Hopkins (POR)

Bronze – Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS)

Copper – Arena Rodriguez (PER)

SOLEIL ERRICO AND MAX WESTON WIN 2025 BIOGLAN BELLS BEACH LONGBOARD CLASSIC

Soleil Errico (USA) and Max Weston (AUS) took top honors at the 2025 Bioglan Bells Beach Longboard Classic, Stop No. 2 on the WSL Longboard Tour. Clean four-to-six-foot surf set the stage at the famed Bowl, producing standout performances from both winners.

Errico continued her dominance at Bells with a historic threepeat, her third straight victory at the location and sixth overall on Tour. The 24-year-old World Longboard Champion opened the Final strong with an 8.00, then built to an 8.83 before sealing the win with a 9.23, the highest women’s single-wave score of the event. Her 18.20 heat total extended her perfect Bells record and pushed her to the top of the rankings heading into El Salvador. Runner-up Hiroka Yoshikawa (JPN) delivered the best result of her career, defeating reigning champ Rachael Tilly and current No. 1 Avalon Gall before falling short in her first-ever Final.

On the men’s side, Max Weston claimed his maiden Longboard Tour victory in his first Finals Day appearance. The 33-year-old Australian opened the Final with an 8.50 and added a 6.50 to lock in a 15.00 total against Kevin Skvarna (USA). Skvarna, who posted a careerbest 17.74 in the Semifinals, struggled in the Final but still matched his best-ever Tour finish.

By event’s end, six surfers, including Errico, Yoshikawa, Weston, Gall, Kai Ellice-Flint, and Taylor Jensen, secured spots in the 2025 Surf City El Salvador Longboard Championships, where the World Titles will be decided.

ECO BYTES

GREENLAND’S MELTING ICE AND OCEAN PRODUCTIVITY

The melting of Greenland’s glaciers is a major driving force of sea level rise, but it also influences marine ecosystems. Research from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory found that meltwater from Jakobshavn Glacier carries nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface, fueling phytoplankton blooms. These microscopic plants form the foundation of Arctic food webs: supporting fish, seabirds, and whales. The study estimates that glacial runoff may increase summer phytoplankton growth by 15 to 40 percent, adding complexity to the ecological effects of a warming Arctic.

NEW FRONTIERS IN SCIENCE: RECYCLING, REFORESTATION, OCEANS, AND SOLAR FUELS

Recent research offers fresh insight into global environmental challenges, from recycling technology to the targeted reforestation, the impact of glacial melt, and new approaches to solar energy storage.

SIMPLE METAL THAT COULD TRANSFORM PLASTIC RECYCLING

Plastic waste is one of the most prolific and persistent environmental problems, in part because mixed plastics cannot easily be recycled together. Researchers at Northwestern University have created a nickelbased catalyst that can break down different plastics, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, without prior hand or machine sorting. The process produces oils, waxes, and fuels that can be refined into valuable products— a more efficient and versatile method of recycling that could reduce reliance on landfills and cut down pollution.

WHERE TREE PLANTING HAS THE GREATEST IMPACT

Planting trees is often touted as a way to counter climate change… but its effectiveness depends entirely on location. A University of California Riverside study shows: the strongest benefits occur in tropical regions, where trees grow year-round, absorb more carbon, and cool the air through evapotranspiration (the process where moisture leaves the ground and travels through plants). In these tropical areas, surface temperatures can drop by up to 0.8 degrees Fahrenheit, with a modest global cooling effect to boot. In higher latitudes, tree planting provides fewer benefits and in some cases, can even increase warming or wildfire risk.

INDUSTRY NOTES

INAUGURAL HAWAII STATE HIGH SCHOOL SURFING CHAMPIONSHIP SET FOR MAY

Hawai‘i will host its first state high school surfing championship in May. Gov. Josh Green announced the plan with Olympic gold medalist Carissa Moore, who said the team format strengthens the sport.

The event includes shortboard, longboard, and bodyboard divisions. The two-day tournament runs May 1 and 2 at Hookipa Beach, with Kahului Harbor as backup.

League coordinators are finalizing entries and heats, with Dave Kazama coordinating alongside the Hawaii High School Athletic Association.

KOLBY AIPA PADDLE OUT

A Huntington Beach community paddle-out honored 20-year-old surfer Kolby Aipa, who died in an e-bike crash on August 5. “Our son … he was one of those authentic individuals” said his father. Conch shells sounded, flowers were cast, and surfers gathered where Kolby loved to ride. He was also inducted into the Surfers Hall of Fame posthumously.

Welcome to the world Kolohe North O’Brien ! Born 09•10•2025 to father Jamie O'Brien and mother, Tina Cohen.

Ron Jon Surf Shop announced on Sunday the passing of Founder Ron Dimenna, a legend in the Florida, East Coast and worldwide surf community.

STUFF WE LIKE

SALTY CREW WOMEN’S SHORT

The Beacons short is built for utility stands on business in comfort and style. With four-way stretch, quick-dry recycled fibers, and smart details like drain-hole pockets and Velcro closure, these shorts are ready for surfing, boating, or the beach. The scallop hem and elastic waist add a flattering fit, while the “Green Bay” colorway keeps it fresh. A durable go-to for anyone living in and around the water.

SKULL COOKIES SURF WAX

Hand-poured and locally made, Skull Cookies Surf Wax stands out from the big-box brands with its small-batch quality and fun aesthetic. It’s designed for solid traction in warm-water lineups while adding a bit of personality to your wax stash. Supporting handmade surf wax feels good — and it works as well as it looks. Which by the way, is any look you want! Customizable to suit your mood, your gear, your vibe.

skullcookies.com

SURF N SEA EARTH NYMPH BABY TEE

This tee captures classic North Shore vibes with a playful, retro-inspired print that is both timeless and fun. Lightweight and soft, throw it on after a surf session. Pair with cutoffs for a casual lunch in Haleʻiwa. Cute, comfortable, and easy to wear.

QUENTIN

TURKO