Innovation, History, and Heart: Surf Week Highlights
Well, what a week it's been in the surf world! From revolutionary moves in Texas to history being made in Portugal and a powerful reminder of community spirit on Californian shores, there's plenty to stoke your fire. Let's dive into the stories that had us talking.
First up, let's talk about Noah Beschen. This kid isn't just surfing; he's rewriting the rulebook. At the Swatch Nines Surf 2025 in Waco, Texas, Beschen blew minds by landing a switch-to-forward spin on an all-metal rail – a move showcasing insane fusion between surfing, skate, and BMX culture. He's pushing boundaries not just in artificial wave pools but also on natural waves, pulling off a stunning double barrel in Mexico with Eimeo Czermak, captured without complex tech, proving raw talent still rules. Beschen sees surfing as pure self-expression, prioritizing 'free movement' and 'personal style' over scores. This approach, blending tech with artistry, redefines modern surfing and highlights Swatch's growing role in high-end action sports. You can get the full breakdown of his innovative year right here.
While Beschen innovates in the pool waves, a different kind of history was made on the Championship Tour front. Tya Zebrowski, at only 14 years young, has officially become the youngest surfer ever to join the elite CT! Her 2025 Challenger Series season was nothing short of remarkable, including a runner-up finish at the US Open of Surfing and wins at the EDP Ericeira Pro and Banco do Brasil Saquarema Pro. This crowns an incredible journey where she also claimed the WSL Europe QS Champion title last April. Rip Curl, who've had her back since she was 9, is understandably stoked, seeing her qualification as just the first step towards her world championship dreams. Her roots in Landes and Tahiti add a unique flair to her style. It's truly inspiring to see such young talent rising through the ranks. Read more about her historic achievement over at Carve Magazine.
Finally, shifting gears to a story that underscores the ocean's power and the incredible resilience of the surf community. California surfer Scott Muir, an experienced rider and family man, suffered a life-altering injury while surfing in Oceanside during the powerful Hurricane Narda swell. Hit by a massive wave, Muir heard a 'crunch' and instantly lost feeling in his body, leaving him paralyzed (though thankfully his spinal cord wasn't severed). His life was saved by the quick actions of two young surfers, Judah Ely and Thomas Alspaugh. Ely noticed Muir's board surface without him and swam through chaos to help, while Alspaugh used his junior lifeguard training to stabilize Muir's neck. Medevaced to Scripps Memorial Hospital, Muir underwent surgery and has since regained some mobility in his arm and leg. His recovery journey, expected to take 12-18 months, is supported by an outpouring from the surfing community, including a GoFundMe. His gratitude is palpable: 'I want to say thank you so much for the outpouring of support.' This story is a stark reminder of the risks we take, but also the profound strength and kindness found within our tribe when we need it most. You can read the full account via 104.7 WIOT.
From cutting-edge tricks and record-breaking qualifications to facing the ocean's brute force with community backing, this week in surfing has it all. It's a testament to the passion, progression, and profound human connections that make up our unique world. Stay stoked, stay safe, and keep an eye out for these incredible surfers shaping the future and spirit of the sport.