Every grom that participates in my InZane SUPer Grom clinics around the world is a champ in my eyes. They learn water skills, safety, share aloha and respect for the land and the ocean. Every now and then, one of the groms gets a real fire in the belly to compete.
8-year-old Bobo Galleghar is such a kid. With the support of his family and mentors like me he trains hard and practices the Maliko every weekend. His goal was to compete in the 2018 Olukai Ho'o. That event will go down in the books as the gnarliest Maliko event, with waves of 18-20 feet.
When I was talking to Bobo and his father after the race briefing I could see he was nervous but still was determined to go. I was focused on the foil race so I decided to accompany Bobo on this event, to keep him safe and enjoy watching him compete. We were all stoked at how much fun he had - and came in 3rd in the 17 and under class (at age 8!)
Photo to the right - 808 Photos