A lot has changed since Rip Curl started the GromSearch events 24 years ago. Not only was there no social media for an up-and-coming surfer to upload clips to, phones could only text and make calls. Imagine that!
But nearly a quarter of a century after its inception, the GromSearch still provides a platform for the best 16-and-under grommets from across the planet. This year, Rip Curl is upping the prize package for the top groms: the winners from the national contests in America, Australia, Europe and Brazil will compete in an International Final at Lakey Peak in November.
Before the kids can get to that dreamy Indonesian a-frame, however, they’ve got chores around home. In North America, the groms got busy at Huntington Beach this month to kick off the first of four regional events.
Four winners emerged from respective divisions: Quaid Fahrion of Costa Mesa (Boys U16), Brody Buck of Encinitas (Boys U14), Eden Walla from San Clemente (Girls U16) and Marlynn Glaub of South Florida (Girls U14). Eden’s little brother Zion got the highest heat total of the event with an impressive 18.83 in the semis with an inverted, full-rotation air and will be rewarded with a custom Mayhem for his efforts. All of the finalists will compete in the National Final at the Palm Springs Surf Club on October 5.
This year Rip Curl is pulling out the couch for each event. Specifically, The Couch Surfing Show, Alani Media’s nonchalant and entertaining broadcast, will stream all the events on their YouTube channel. Aside from surfing insight, you’re guaranteed to hear some classic grom froth when the booth goes live.
Browse the gallery from HB below. The next GromSearch comp in the American region will be at Kewalos on Oahu from July 13-14.
All photos courtesy of Rip Curl.
Gallery: 2024 Rip Curl GromSearch Huntington Beach
Eden Walla, all smiles.
Costa Mesa’s Quaid Fahrion snapped his way to a win. He’ll be competing at the Palm Springs Surf Club in October for a chance at a private lineup in Indonesia.
She may be pint-sized, but Eden Walla can punch the lip, as demonstrated by a perfect 10-point ride in one of her heats.
Not to be outdone by his sister, Zion Walla ups the ante for his family.
Gotta dap up Zion Walla for turns like that.
Brody Buck, Boys U14 winner, gets a lift.
Makai Castle proving that groms aren’t all about air revs.
Props where props are due.
Reid Van Wagoner finished runner-up in the event but had some of the more impressive backside snaps of the comp.
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