Not all surf contests are built the same, and the Single Fin Hoedown, began as a celebration of roots Florida surf culture, and since its revival a few years ago has grown into a beloved community tradition. Started in 2003 by Enrique “Moose” Huerta and the crew at St. Augustine’s beloved Surf Station, surfers in the Single Fin Hoedown use vintage or retro-style single-fins, paying tribute to the era when surfing was more soulful and expressive than competitive in spirit, attracting both veteran pros, underground stylists, and young talents eager to try their hand at traditional surf craft.
Brandon "LaserWolf" Campbell
The judging is relaxed, with an emphasis on flow, creativity, and style rather than high-performance maneuvers. Last weekend was no different and all surfers brought their best and took their shot at getting some of the “dark money” from Dark Seas after every heat. Surfers had a chance at $50 for best style, best costume, best ride, best wipeout, best shared wave, and more. This brought an attitude of creativity and spontaneity and kept things rad and oh so weird throughout every heat.
Brandon LaserWolf Campbell
In the end , only three overall winners could be named and Kylie Pulcini won the women’s division with Rasta Rob taking the men’s final, but an honorable mention goes to Sebastian Peters as overall consensus was that he was the standout throughout the day. Ko Minks won the Dark Seas grom expression session, and earned an invite to the men’s division next year.
Brandon Laserwolf Campbell
Regardless of who wins, the Hoedown holds a special place for all competitors and is a great reminder of what surfing is all about, having fun, catching waves, and not taking things too seriously. It has taken on a new life since being revived by local pillar Chris Ropero in 2023.
Photographer Brandon “Laserwolf” Campbell says, “While so many coastal communities have been overran with high salary transplants causing the locals to be priced out of paradise, St. Augustine has been able to keep the rootsy surf community feel alive and well.”
The Hoedown always brings together live music, local food vendors, and a beach party atmosphere that’s made it a staple of the St. Augustine surf calendar, and the area’s tight-knit surf culture, bringing people together year after year.
Brandon Laserwolf Campbell
In a world of fast-paced, high-tech competitions, the Single Fin Hoedown offers a refreshing reminder of the sport’s humble, soulful origins, and a terrific example of the incredible surf community in St. Augustine. We’ll see you there next year!
Related: The Diva Cup Is The Most Fun Event In Women’s Surfing