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.