Bodysurfer Edward Sweeney of Goleta, top, navigates a large wave at Middle Peak on Friday morning during the heat 7 of the men's open division at the First USA Bodysurfing event at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz.
Conditions at iconic Steamer Lane were nothing short of dreamy Friday picturesque 6- to 10-foot waves folded over, offering barrel opportunities under a perfect blue, nearly cloudless sky when a tornado hit the heralded surf break.
When Steamer Lane hosts its first-ever USA Bodysurfing contest on January 6th, the Santa Cruz surf ecosystem will take a significant step back to full health.