Surfing Laguna: Grom on the rise

I remember it like it was yesterday: A little brown-haired boy fascinated by our collection of surfboards, skateboards and other beach toys peeked through the gate of my house and said softly “Hello, I’m Adam.”

That was years ago. Adam Mejia (Mi-hee-uhh) is now a freshman at Laguna Beach High. He is an American dreamer of sorts. Adam gets solid grades, takes good care of his little brother, Alan, pitches in at many beach cleanups and loves to surf. Adam’s dream is to one day make the World Championship Tour of Surfing, frequently dubbed “The Dream Tour” because of its many beautiful locations and picturesque waves.

Most mornings “Adz” (as his friends call him) can be found surfing Thalia Street pre-dawn with a select group of hard-core crazies. The waves can be big, small, clean or blown, and you will most likely see this compact and powerful goofy-footer flying along the face of a wave.

People have taken notice of Adam’s surfing. He was honored to surf for the Laguna Beach High team this year, where he competed in several contests, which is rare for a freshman. He has attracted several sponsors who value his warm demeanor, good citizenship and solid surfing.

Recently, Adam reached another important milestone: He won a Laguna competition, the Trky contest at Thalia Reef.

Anyone who competes will probably tell you that competing against your peers is quite a challenge, especially at your home break. What with pecking-order points on the line, local heavies in attendance and, of course, the cute girls on the beach. This was huge!

I asked Adam what his strategy was for the final heat that determined the contest winner, and he replied: “Ask God for strength to surf good.” When they announced the results, Adam took home first place, and right on cue he flashed that same humble smile I remember from 10 years ago.

He’s on his way, and I’m rooting for this young guy to make it to the big leagues. We will keep an eye on him and other locals as they work hard to achieve their surfing dreams.

Come see Adam in a local competition, or better yet, join in the fun at the Freedom Family Surf Competition on Jan. 23 at Seaside Reef in Encinitas. Visit www.freedom.surfride.com for all the details.

CHRIS WILLIAMS is a surfing coach and Laguna Beach resident, and father of four surf-crazy sons. He can be reached at chris@soulsurfingschool.com or (949) 497-5918.