By Roel Godinez
With clear blue skies, soft sand, and rolling waves, Oceanside beach is an ideal surfing and hangout spot. This, matched with the city’s friendly aura, makes for enjoyable day trips for both tourists and locals alike. For this reason, the Paul Mitchell Neon Supergirl Surf Pro has chosen it to be the location for its yearly competition, which began in 2007. This event draws the most prestigious female surfers, many of whom have won numerous world championships. The S symbol worn by the contestants represents their power and capabilities, which they hope will inspire their followers, especially the younger female generation.
The event took place from June 27th through the 29th. Admission was free, bringing onlookers and curious passers-by alike to the shoreline and pier. The south side of the pier was the best spot for watching the contestants and buying adult beverages while the street that runs below the pier, otherwise known as “The Strand”, is where the festival was held. Food stands and vendors filled the street with tantalizing scents, vibrant accessories, and a carnival like vibe. Zumba and exercise classes, esport competitions, and hairstyling by Paul Mitchell stylists allowed the public to immerse themselves in the fun, all free of charge. Live music was played in the Pier Plaza Amphitheater by young artists from all over the country. There was even an impressive U.S. Air Force Military Jet on display.
With all of the excitement of the festival, the surfing remained the focus. The Supergirl Pro commentators kept the crowd up to date with the competition’s progress. Surfers compete in “heats”, twenty to thirty minute rounds in which groups of four attempt to catch the best waves. The judges then tally the scores and announce a winner to progress to the next round. Many of the contenders, such as Stephanie Gilmore, Carissa Moore, and Lakey Peterson, are world champions and perform amazing maneuvers. Each of them carry grand dreams and messages they hope to impart to the rest of the world. Alana Blanchard, professional surfer and mother, spoke at the event this weekend and closed with “keep it cool, have fun, and don’t take things too seriously.”
THREE-TIME WORLD CHAMPION CARISSA MOORE CLAIMS HER FIRST PAUL MITCHELL SUPERGIRL PRO WIN, EDGING OUT CAROLINE MARKS TO TAKE THE CAPE; COCO HO AND MALIA MANUEL TIE FOR THIRD FULL REPORT HERE
