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Stephanie Gilmore at P-Pass. This is one of those moments that just happen. The rain stopped, the clouds parted and the sun burst through just as Steph took off….she pulled into a nice little barrel and as she came out the lip flared…The delight on her face is genuine, this is not her working the camera, she didn’t even know that I had this shot until later. Photo: Richard Kotch
Have you ever frowned before, during or after getting barreled? If so, you’re most likely in the minority. Actually, not smiling, especially frowning, is a mannerism directly antithetical to surfing in general. Who doesn’t smile while surfing? Seriously, that should be prohibited. It’s just about the most fun you can have on planet earth, after all.
Everyone from Kelly Slater to Alana Blanchard to Sunny Garcia to Steph Gilmore can be found here flashing their pearly whites. Whether they’re exiting a barrel or simply paddling out, they’re all outwardly enjoying their session, which is what it’s all about. We hope these make you smile too.