Kolohe Andino illuminates, Huntington Beach, CA

Kolohe Andino, 19 years old and from San Clemente, is currently the only Southern Cali man left among the big boys at the Vans US Open of Surfing. Beneath the shadow of Huntington Beach pier, Brother eliminated last years’ champ and a man that many had pegged to win, Julian Wilson.

“I’m stoked because I was pretty nervous halfway through the heat,” said Kolohe. “I wanted to do well so bad because Julian’s such a hard competitor. I knew I had a decent chance of losing because he’s so good. There were no waves in that heat and I was so nervous. I had a good left and only got a 4 because I surfed it so bad. I’m really stoked to make it to the next round and I’m just trying to take it as it comes.”

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