Jul 13, 2021
Quaid Fahrion was a big winner at Rip Curl GromSearch. Photo credit: Steve Morrissette
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The Rip Curl GromSearch presented by Banzai Bowls found its way back to the ocean for the first time since 2019! Stop 1 of the 22nd GromSearch season kicked off this weekend, at the famed surf arena of Southside Huntington Beach Pier. 128 competitors entered this West Coast Qualifier, but only 16 finalists secured their spot in the coveted Rip Curl GromSearch National Final, going down this October at Churches.
Surfers were greeted with the fresh arrival of a strong south swell, allowing plenty of juice for competitors to work with. However, the swell brought with it strong currents and long paddles, making wave selection and time management a key factor at this stop. Finals Day saw buzzer- beater finishes, a few major upsets, fierce battles and huge maneuvers. An all Softech Expression Session broke up the intense action with some of the most fun surfing of the event. Out