Costa Rica Enters The Championship Tour

Last year, Caroline Marks, the 16-year old Floridian took to the CT with a precocious storm. Today, the tour prepares for another young and talented teenager prepped to take on the old guard. 

Her name is Brisa Hennessy. She’s 19-years old, hails from Costa Rica, and has been backed by Rip Curl since she was a 13-year old micro grom. 

She’s been slugging it out on the QS over the past two years, and today solidified her place among the top 16 women with a semi final finish at the Port Stephens QS 6,000. In 2019 she’ll be one of two hotly anticipated teens, and the first ever Costa Rican surfer to qualify for the World Tour – from either the men or women. 

Moving to Oahu in her impressionable adolescence more than catalysed her surfing ability. And a recent family relocation to Fiji has furthered her skillset in even heavier waters. Despite this, she’s opted to fly the flag of her blood and birthplace and will consequently be the first to represent Costa Rica on the big stage stream. 

“No words can describe how I feel – this is a dream come true,” Brisa said after reaching the semi’s. “There are so many people I need to thank and that have helped me along the way I just don’t know where to start… I’m just over the moon.”

CT qualification is a good reason to celebrate.

Brisa made the quarterfinals at the Maui Pro last year and we expected big things to come from the then 18-year old. She has a dialled carve, and is apt in solid surf, and while she’s not quite at the standard of taking down the highest tier of women’s surfing just yet, she’ll be formidable in the coming years.

I’m sure our recently relocated Michael Ciaramella will be waving the Costa Rican flag in support next year.