It was hard for Santa Cruz's Adam Bartlett to decide which was bumpier, his descent down the face of the waves at iconic surf break Steamer Lane, or his ascent up a flight of stairs, while he was being chaired by a couple of his teenage friends after winning his first USA Surfing Prime title Sunday.
Large wind-battered waves and a continuous surge of whitewater turned the USA Surfing Prime event at iconic Steamer Lane turned into a track meet Saturday afternoon. It was survival of the fittest.
Santa Cruz advanced two local talents, Autumn Hays and Esme Brigham, into the Round of 16 in the women's draw on Day 2 of the World Surf League's 2023 Cold Water Classic at iconic Steamer Lane on Thursday.
The story of Rick Griffin runs through San Clemente, and you can experience the iconic artist’s work at the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center, including an insightful upcoming panel discussion.