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OLIVER SOLIS, POPOYO OUTER REEF. PHOTO: RObERTO GARcIA/NSR

NICARAGUA ALAS TOUR CLASSIC

Oliver Solis, passion or madness?

“Central America’s Heaviest Wave”

Alas Latin Tour 2013 Last Stop

POPOYO OUTER REEF

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Staff / Contents

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StaffPublisherCésar Medina

Editor at LargeJake Howard

Art DirectorFernando Alemán

Staff PhotographerTony Roberts

Business DeveloperAdolfo Mejía

Marketing CoordinatorYurandir Benavides

Legal AdviserMaría Ofelia Medina

Contributing PhotographersJerson Barboza, Rick Briggs, Renato Cardoso, Roberto García, John Matthews, BrianScott, Nica Surf Shots, Donald Stone, Helena Leona, Miguel Espinoza, Michael Dennison,

Oct - Dec 2013

For Advertising Enquiries: info@surfnicamagazine.com

+505. 8408.4048+505. 8462.8303+505. 2277.1813

Surfnica Magazine & Travel Guide is a free publication, published every three months, and distributed nationally in the Pacific Region of Nicaragua and internationally in the United States of America, Costa Rica and Brazil. Also distributed in Centres of Touristic Information by the Nicaraguan Tourism Board.

For subscription (National & Int.): info@surfnicamagazine.com

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Printed in Nicaragua.

Digital version available at

LESTHER ESPINOZA , PLAYA IGUANAPHOTO: MIGUEL ESPINOZA

SurfnicaMag

Follow us:

@Surfnicamag

Surfnica Magazine

Nica Knowledge 10 - 11Que pasa in Nica? 14 - 15

Nica Hotspot 24 - 27Nica Spot Light 28 - 31

Directory 33

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Surfnica Magazine is the channel of communication between the Nicaraguan surf community and readers around the world. Through the publication of images and stories we continue to document what’s happening in the Nicaragua surf scene, while also maintaining a close relationship with the public through social networking channels.

We are proud to note that at the beginning of November the “Nicaragua, Unica Original Latin Pro” will close the NICARAGUA ALAS TOUR CLASSIC, which certifi es that Nicaragua continues to position itself as a world-class surfi ng destination. We emphasize the excellent work of the Nicaraguan Tourism Board (INTUR) for its campaign of Nicaragua as “Surf Destination Country” and main sponsor of Surfnica Magazine & Travel Guide.

We are also happy to be delivering a special report on the Popoyo Outer Reef, including an interview with Oliver Solis, the only local who surfs this beast, along with testimonials from friends, surfers and photographers who are passionately following this wild monster.We’re tracking the latest news on local surfers, upcoming events and important notes, highlighting a special feature on Waves of Love, a project through which you can support the socioeconomic development of the communities in your trip.

We thank the resident community in Nica, our partners and friends who shared their experiences and photos and make all of this possible. We’d especially like to thank Mr. Carlos Deshon, the fi rst Nicaraguan surfer.

Last but not least, thanks to you our dear reader.

Dale pues,

Surfnica Magazine

Surfnica Magazine está rompiendo el molde y se ha posicionado como el canal de comunicación de la comunidad Surf de Nicaragua y de lectores alrededor del mundo. Nuestra fi losofía de comunicación es altamente dinámica, en la cual el lector participa brindando fotografías, contenido, y su tiempo para las dinámicas en FB.

Queremos destacar que a inicio de Noviembre se estará desarrollando la clausura del ALAS LATIN TOUR 2013 con el “Nicaragua, ALAS Tour Classic”, el cual certifi ca que Nicaragua se está posicionando como un destino de surf de calidad mundial. Destacamos la titánica labor del Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo (INTUR) como promotor “País Destino Surf” y principal patrocinador de Surfnica Magazine.

También entregamos un especial de Popoyo Outer Reef. Entrevistamos a Oliver Solís, el único local que surfea esta ola y además invitamos a amigos surfi stas y fotógrafos que se han dedicado con pasión a esta impresionante ola.

Además encontrarás las últimas noticias sobre surfi stas locales, próximos eventos y artículos de interés, destacando un reporte especial sobre Waves of Love, un proyecto mediante el cual puedes apoyar al desarrollo socioeconómico de las comunidades cuando visites Nicaragua.

Agradecemos a la comunidad que reside en Nica; a nuestros colaboradores (anunciantes y distribución); a los amigos que compartieron su experiencia y fotos; y en especial al Sr. Carlos Deshon –primer surfi sta Nicaragüense.

Por ultimo pero con igual importancia gracias a ti, nuestro querido lector.

Dale pues, Surfnica Magazine

Nicaragua is a land of many shapes, colors and moving things. Here the Outer Reef showing it’s Raw Power and beauty

in cilíndrico azul form.

Nica Knowledge

1010

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PHOTO: MIGUEL ESPINOZA

Jackson Obando, National Junior Champion 2013 with a 29,950 score,

has had a very successful year especially for his great performance in the Dakine ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, event in which he showed powerful surf

combined with improved competition skills.

Jackson Obando, Campeón Nacional Junior 2103 con un registro de 29,950

puntos, ha tenido un año muy exitoso especialmente por su gran actuación en el Campeonato Mundial Dakine de

Surfing de la ISA, evento en el cual mostro un surf potente combinado con

mejores habilidades compitiendo.

Que pasa in Nica?

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Nica in Big Island, HI

ECSC 2013

Among the first generation of surfers from San Juan del Sur, Roque Calderon, uncle of Rex Calderon, is the international ambassador of our country. Since 2010 Roque has been living and ripping in Maui, Hawaii, with his wife Carmen.

Three-time Nicaraguan Open Champion, ranked sixth in Central American Surfing Championship in 2006, more than eight countries surfed, and three years competing in Maui and Oahu, has made of him a complete surfer. From one-foot wave to scoring big Pipeline, he’s honed his skills in all conditions. He recently finished fifth at the 29th Annual Quiksilver-Big Island Toyota Pro-Am Surfing Trials 2013.

“This is dedicated to all surfer children in Nicaragua, to my friends; everything is possible in this life,” said Roque. “If someone ever says

no just smile. I want to thank God, my wife, sponsors, photographers and videographers, and that huge blue that makes possible surfing. Also thanks Surfnica Magazine for this space. ¡Gracias!”

Roque Calderon describes Maui as the Nicaraguan Ometepe Island, a bit bigger and surrounded by waves. Besides surfing, he works and study Culinary Arts at the University of Hawaii; soon he will graduate and consider where to take his career. He considers that the best gift he can give to his mother after she’s given him so much.

Many mahalo’s from home, Roque!

Hailing from San Juan Del Sur, Jeynner Granados competed in the 51st Coastal Edge Coast Surfing Championship in Virginia Beach this past August.

“That wave is similar to the lake’s, with a very strong onshore,” said Jeynner, who fought through three heats on to earn a spot went straight in the Men’s final.

In the end he’d take a very respectable third place in the event. Congratulations mate!

PHOTO: RObbIE HIckMAN

PHOTO: GARY PETRISON

Mi amor, Nicaragua!

When like minds get together in the name of love, big things are the outcome. This was true in August when Share The Stoke Foundation, a Florida non-profi t, partnered with a Nicaraguan NGO called Waves of Hope to explore leadership through the sport of surfi ng. Together they created a youth impact program designed to use surfi ng as an incentive for youth to excel in school. Kelly Kingston, founder of Share The Stoke Foundation, is passionate about kids fi nding their leadership potential both on the water and in the classroom. She believes that the discipline kids learn in the water can directly translate to their education, thus maximizing their capabilities. Approximately 20 Nicaraguan teens from the community volunteered their time to teach younger kids in their local villages how to surf. It was so great to see the older boys really get involved in being responsible for the younger kids to get some waves. The following day those same volunteers competed in a contest with the prizes as brand

Cuando grandes mentes se unen en el nombre del amor, grandiosas cosas pueden ocurrir. Este fue el caso durante este mes de agosto cuando la fundación sin fi nes de lucro Share the Stoke colaboró con la organización independiente nicaragüense Waves of Hope para explorar una iniciativa de liderazgo basada en el deporte del surf. Conjuntamente, se logró crear un programa dirigido a la juventud diseñado para usar dicho deporte como un incentivo para sobresalir en los estudios.

Kelly Kingston, fundadora de Share the Stoke, se declara apasionada por ayudar a los niños a alcanzar su potencial tanto en el agua como en el aula. Kingston asegura que la disciplina que se aprende en el agua puede traducirse directamente al campo educativo, maximizando así las capacidades de cada niño.

Aproximadamente 20 adolescentes nicaragüenses ofrecieron su tiempo para enseñar a los pequeños de sus comunidades a surfear. Fue verdaderamente entretenido observar como los niños más grandes disfrutaban tanto al ver a sus pupilos atrapar una ola. Al día siguiente, estos mismos voluntarios participaron en una competencia con sorprendentes premios tales como nuevas tablas Firewire. El panel de jueces en esta ocasión consistió de Kingston, Arman (un hombre de la comunidad) y Holly Beck (competidora por séptima vez del Women’s World Tour). Gracias a la generosidad de marcas como Firewire, FCS y Sticky Bumps, se le galardonó a siete jóvenes con un paquete completo de surf, incluyendo una tabla con su cera, aletas, una almohadilla de tracción y una correa. Las tablas que no fueron entregadas durante la competición, se asignaron a un sistema tipo bibliotecario en el que maestros locales nominarán a niños a raíz de su participación en el aula para tomar prestada una tabla por el día.

“La disciplina del surf es una herramienta vital practicada en la comunidad que este deporte engloba. Generalmente se pasa por alto cuando los medios marginalizan a los surfi stas,” afi rmó Kingston. “Estoy comprometida a ayudar a los niños a entender que el surf puede servir como un modo saludable de expresión. Éste puede enseñar tanto liderazgo como compromiso mientras se explora la conexión con la Madre Naturaleza.”

Para mayor información visítanos en Facebook.com/SharetheStokeFoundation

Mi amor, Nicaragua!

new Firewire surfboards. Kingston, a local man named Arman, and seven time Women’s World Tour competitor, Holly Beck, judged the competition. From the generosity of Firewire, FCS , and Sticky Bumps, seven kids were rewarded the ultimate surf package complete with a brand new surfboard, fi ns, traction pad, a leash, and wax. The other three surfboards will be used as a library system. The local teachers will nominate kids based on their participation in school, to use a board for that day. “The discipline of surfi ng is a core life skill practiced throughout the surfi ng community. It is often overlooked when the media marginalizes surfers.” said Kingston. “I am committed to kids learning that surfi ng can be a positive way for our youth to express themselves. It can teach leadership and commitment while exploring the ultimate connection with Mother Nature.”

For more info visit us on Facebook.com/SharetheStokeFoundation

Que pasa in Nica?

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In August 2010 Nicaragua hosted an international surfi ng event, it was the second stop of the Central American Triple Crown in Playa Jiquelite, ran by the Latin American Association of Professional Surfers (A.L.A.S. by its Spanish initials). Nicaragua was a land with great potential. Anywhere you look there was surf opportunity.

In 2011 the eighth and penultimate stage of the Latin American Tour landed in Playa Maderas with a spectacular 6-Star event, the Latin Pro Nicaragua. And again in November 2012, the Latin Tour visited Nicaragua at Playa Aposentillo in the Northern Pacifi c region.

Today, after three A.L.A.S. events and two I.S.A. events, the potential of Nicaragua is being realized. This year the Nicaraguan Tourism Board has announced they will fully sponsor and support the Nicaragua Unica Original Latin Pro 2013, another 6-star event. It will be held at Playa Las Peñitas in

the Central Pacifi c zone. It will run from November 6-9. This event is organized by Live Nicaragua, ALAS, Municipality of Leon and National Association of Surf.

Las Peñitas is located 18km west of Colonial City of Leon. It’s a reliable sand-bottom pointbreak. The area is not so blessed by the all-day offshore winds, direction might switch in the afternoon, but it is certainly exposed to northern swells. As of press time the seventh and latest stop of the Latin Tour, the Chevrolet Latin Pro Salaverry 2013, had just wrapped up at Playa El Molon in Peru. The results are as follow:

Next stops of the ALAS Latin Tour will be the ONA Latin Pro in playa Parguito in Isla de Margarita, Venezuela, from October 21 to 24; and the Reef Classic in Punta de Lobos, Chile, from October 31 to November 2. For the Latin American ranking and more info visit: http://www.alaslatintour.com/

Open: 1. Guillermo Satt (cHI)2. Noe Mar McGonagle (cRI)3. Luan Wood (bRA)4. Jonathan chila (EcU)Damas:1. Miluska Tello (PER)2. Analí Gómez (PER)3. Valeria Solé (PER)4. Vania Torres (PER)Junior:1. Noe Mar McGonagle (cRI)2. Miguel Tudela (PER)3. Joaquín Del castillo (PER)4. cainá barletta (bRA)Longboard: 1. Francisco Hernández (VEN)2. Lucas Garrido Lecca (PER)3. Isidro Villao (EcU)4. Joel Ucañan (PER)

Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic

Que pasa in Nica?

Surfer Guillermo SattPhoto: ALAS

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En agosto 2010 Nicaragua recibió un evento internacional de Surfi ng, era la segunda parada de la Triple Corona Centroamericana en playa Jiquelite, organizada por la Asociación Latinoamericana de Surfi stas Profesionales (A.L.A.S.). Nicaragua era un territorio con gran potencial. Donde sea que buscaras había una oportunidad para surfear.

En 2011 la octava y penúltima etapa del Tour Latinoamericano aterrizo en playa Maderas con un espectacular evento 6-estrellas, el Latín Pro Nicaragua. Y nuevamente en Noviembre 2012, el Latín Tour visito Nicaragua en Playa Aposentillo en la región Pacifi co Norte.

Hoy, después de tres eventos A.L.A.S. y dos I.S.A., el potencial de Nicaragua se ha descubierto. Este año el Instituto Nicaragüense de Turismo ha anunciado que ellos patrocinaran y apoyaran completamente el Nicaragua Única Original Latín Pro 2013, otro evento 6-estrellas. Tomará lugar en playa Las Peñitas en la zona Pacifi co Central. Será del 6 al 9 de Noviembre. Dicho evento es organizado por Live Nicaragua, ALAS, Alcaldía de León y Asociación Nacional de Surf.

Las Peñitas está ubicado a 18km al oeste de la ciudad colonial de León. Es un pointbreak banco de arena. El área no está muy bendecida por los vientos offshore todo-el-día, la dirección puede cambiar en la tarde, pero esta ciertamente expuesto a los oleajes del norte.

Al momento de esta publicación la séptima y última parada del Tour Latino, el Chevrolet Latín Pro Salaverry 2013, recién fi nalizo en playa El Molón en Perú. Los resultados fueron los siguientes:Las próximas paradas del ALAS Latín Tour serán el

ONA Latín Pro en playa Parguito en Isla de Margarita, Venezuela, del 21 al 24 de Octubre; y el Reef Classic en Punta de Lobos, Chile, del 31 de Octubre al 2 de Noviembre. Para la clasifi cación Latinoamericana y más información visita: http://www.alaslatintour.com/

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Organizado por ∕ Organized by

Que pasa in Nica?

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Imagine yourself in Nicaragua, surfi ng amazing waves in the morning and in the afternoon changing the lives of the local people for generations. Impacting someone’s life so tremendously brings the experience of a surfi ng vacation to a higher level. You become connected, fi lled with compassion and understanding.

Waves of Love is a non-profi t mission organization that has been working in Nicaragua since 2010. We are based in Guasacate in the Tola province. The country of Nicaragua is beautiful and the people are loving and humble. Our work is twofold: community development/building homes for the poor and connecting with the people on a soul level. We invite everyone to come join and support our work in this beautiful country. You can help in many ways: fi nancial donations, spreading the word of our work and volunteering on projects in the community.

We run Surf and Serve mission trips year round. Trips run from 1-2 weeks and are all-inclusive from the time you hit the ground in Managua until the time you leave. The surf in Nicaragua is world class. Joining us on a mission of Surf and Serve in Nicaragua is an experience that will last a lifetime.

Waves of Love invites you on an adventure that will impact your life and the lives of the people in Nicaragua!

We are currently raising support to build 4 Casittas on our property. These Casittas will house our mission teams. Visit: http://wedid.it/campaigns/503

Waves of Love

Imagínate estar en Nicaragua, surfear olas increíbles en la mañana y por la tarde cambiar la vida de la gente local por generaciones. Impactar la vida de alguien tan tremendamente trae la experiencia de unas vacaciones de surf a un nivel superior. Usted se conecta y llena de compasión y comprensión.

Waves of Love (Olas de Amor) es una organización misionera sin fi nes de lucro que trabaja en Nicaragua desde 2010. Nuestra base está en Guasacate en el departamento de Tola. El país de Nicaragua es hermoso y la gente es cariñosa y humilde. Nuestro trabajo es doble: el desarrollo comunitario / construcción de viviendas para los pobres y conectar con la gente a un nivel del alma. Invitamos a todos a venir y unirse a apoyar nuestro trabajo en este hermoso país. Usted puede ayudar de muchas maneras: donaciones fi nancieras, la difusión de la palabra de nuestro trabajo y el voluntariado en proyectos de la comunidad.

Tenemos misiones Surf and Serve (surfear y servir) durante todo el año. Los viajes van de 1-2 semanas y son todo incluido desde el momento que tocas el suelo en Managua hasta el momento de salir. El surf en Nicaragua es de clase mundial. Participar en una misión de Surf y Servir en Nicaragua es una experiencia que va a durar toda la vida.

¡Waves of Love lo invita a una aventura que impactara su vida y la de muchas personas en Nicaragua!

Actualmente estamos recaudando apoyo para construir 4 casitas en nuestra propiedad. Estas casitas alojaran a nuestros equipos en misión: http://wedid.it/campaigns/503

You can contact us through our website at www.wavesofl ove.orgEmail at michael@wavesofl ove.orgNicaragua +505. 8394.8941U.S.A. +1. 941-350-9687

Rex has been training hard and is going for the Open and Junior title in the Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic to be held in playa Las Peñitas next November. / Rex ha estado entrenando fuerte y va por el título

Open y Junior en el Nicaragua ALAS Tour Classic, el cual será en playa Las Peñitas en Noviembre próximo.

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There is a video on YouTube entitled “Oliver Solis Outer Reef.” It was shot several years ago. The first time I watched it I had doubts that the waves being ridden were somewhere on the Nicaraguan coast. Struck by the size and power of the wave I had to know the truth, and it didn’t take me long to go on a trip and witness this wonder throwing some very heavy waves. “How will I ever describe this?” I remember thinking thought. I had no idea one day

this would be my task, so how am I going to do this? How about approaching every surfer who charges this monster and every photographer who shoots it? There’s no better way to completely describe this beast than having their testimonies on paper. The lineup includes: surfers James Yemma, Drex Harrington, Manuel Resano and John Matthews, and photographer’s: Donald Stone, Roberto Garcia and Rick Briggs.

Popoyo Outer Reef “Central America’s Heaviest Wave”

Wave Quality World Class

Experience Advanced+Type Reef-rocky

Direction LeftPower Hollow, Fast, Powerful

Normal length Normal (50 to 150m)Good day length Long (150 to 300 m)

Best Tide Mid-to-highBest Size 10-20'+

Best Season April-AugustCrowd Factor Few surfers

Zone Guasacate - PopoyoMunicipality Tola

Province Rivas

Nica Hot Spots Presented by

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Drex Harrington

The Outer Reef is unlike any wave most will ever surf. It only works proper when it’s triple overhead plus. The currents shift you out of position and the sneaker sets clean you up like no other wave I’ve ever surfed. It breaks on a dry ledge once mid tide hits so your margin of error is very small. The boils on the bottom turn look like a boiling caldron and will intimidate any surfer. Every time I paddle out I always say a quick prayer to keep me off the dry ledge and make it out of the heaving death pits that throw out as far as they are tall. I have made a few of the best barrels of my life out there. I have almost drowned put there, two-wave hold-downs on a quadruple overhead day that pulled my leash plug out and carried me underwater for about a third of a mile. I give this wave full respect and look forward to my next session out there. Va Pue!

Manuel Resano

My connection with Nicaragua started way before landing in the country. For reasons that I can’t explain, since I was very young, I had a big interest in this land. The adventure started when I opened a sailing school in Granada. Back then there was no information about the surf; I only had a little map that showed Popoyo and crazy rocks (The Outer Reef). I made the drive to the beach and saw crazy rocks spitting. Without even thinking I paddeled out. It was low tide and full moon. Once in the lineup the rocks came to life. Time to retreat. My second attempt was in March, 12-foot Hawaiian with 40-knot of offshore winds. I had a 6´8” and I couldn’t get in. To stay positive, I sat my tent on the beach and promised myself that I was going to dedicate the next fi ve years to that wave and would have the chance to surf it again in those same conditions with the right equipment. In April 2003, on my birthday, we surfed the fi rst legit swell, eight to ten feet Hawaiian, light offshore and good direction. My friends JJ, John Mathews and Oliver Soliz were with me. Lance missed that fi rst one, but joined the Outer Reef crew in the very next swell. That swell was a mix of emotions that helped me look into myself. During those same days my fi rst daughter was conceived and I realized where I wanted to live and raise my new family. Since then the Outer Reef has been ruling my life in different ways. My work schedule and family trips depend on the swell energy.

John Matthews

Like any slab wave, the Outer Reef is thick and can be hard to get into. It doesn’t give you a big ramp to glide on while your stroking in, and if you’re behind the hump or on top of it you’re probably going to fall out of the sky trying to get in. It’s sort of West Oz slab meets Pipeline. Pipe is a better wave and certainly holds much bigger surf (Popoyo Outer Reef starts coming apart at around 10-foot Hawaiian), but Popoyo can deliver that same ear-popping pressure change while in the barrel that you’d expect from any marquee super spot around the world. All the local guys who ride it when its on would be happy just riding one wave during their session, it’s that kind of experience—except for Manny, we expect him to get about three times as many waves. He is the man out there. Only JJ gives him a run for the money, but Manny spends more time in the water whenever it’s breaking then any one. At this point he has become so comfortable out there and so smooth it’s impossible to give the nod to any other surfer as the man at Outers. From time to time JJ takes it, but only just barely, Manny is that consistent at one of Nicaragua’s heaviest waves.

James Yemma.

My fi rst time seeing the Outer reef was in January of 1997. We had just checked into La Tica, which was the only place to stay back then. We walked 30 minutes to the beach through the salt fl ats and river. When I came around the point right in front of La Bocana all I could see was the outer reef at dead low tide doubling up on itself and spitting every wave. It was pretty intense looking. It wouldn’t be until a year later that I my good friend Tim Hughes and I decided to paddled out to the right for the fi rst time. The surf was about 10-foot on the faces. As we approached the adrenaline really started pumping. We saw the countless boils swirling around. I’d never seen anything like it. Even now I get a little adrenaline fl owing when I think about it. After that every time there was a solid swell I would paddle out there, trying to get people to go with me even if it’s just to sit on the shoulder and watch. I don’t like surfi ng out there by myself. It’s just too dangerous, but what an amazing spot to have right out back of the house. I just wanted to thank the Lord Jesus for keeping me safe all these years and for allowing so much blessing to fl ow into my life through Nicaragua. I truly love this place and her people.

chargers

Donald Stone

When the Outer Reef is working it truly is a site to behold. I never tire of watching waves of this magnitude come through and explode on the reef so close to us. The guys that run the boats have the tough job, keeping us in position to shoot while always looking for waves swinging wide. It’s a scary feeling sitting in a boat trying to out run a monster set that’s starting to feather on the outside. Other than that my work out here is easy as we set up and the guys dropping in surf directly towards me, like shooting fi sh in a barrel. But none of this would be possible without those who charge it when it’s working. Few people surf this reef and none better than J.J. Yemma, Lance Moss and Manuel Resano, along with Oliver Solis, the only Nicaraguan charger. I give credit to all the guys that surf the Outer Reef, without them our photos would just be empty wave shots…then who’d buy our photos?

Roberto Garcia

Outer Reef, easily the most dangerous wave in all Nicaragua. Sitting in the reef channel is one of the most exciting sensations, be the fi rst and only photographer to be there in most of the swells has taught me the greatest potential of our country and the respect we owe to Mother Nature. God Bless Nicaragua.

Thanks to Magnifi c Rock for sponsoring this section. Magnifi c Rock Hotel overlooks Nicaragua’s premier surf break and one Central America’s top surfi ng destination. Perched on a 30 metre cliff face, Magnifi c Rock offers its guests an unparalleled experience with 270 degree views of Popoyo’s best surf breaks, including Popoyo Outer Reef, Popoyo River mouth and Jiquelite’s.

Rick Briggs

Shooting water out there is a love/hate relationship. It can be sketchy when there is a lot of west in the swell. That westy bowl can clamp and shut down leaving you caught inside. I had my water housing ripped right off (w/ 2 leashes) last year trying to get under one. No bueno, no fun. But I love the energy and the adrenaline rush. I’m like a child on Christmas Eve when I see an 18-second period and know we have an Outer Reef swell on the way.Sometimes sitting on the boil and trying to line up can be tricky with the currents out there. That wave is no joke. Pictures and video do that wave no justice until you are actually out there. It even looks tame from the beach. But what you can’t see is the rivers of current, the wind, the ledge and raw power unless you’re up close and personal. I give props to JJ, Manuel, Cabeza, Lance, Trin and everyone else who goes out there and plays with that beast.

shooters

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When I knew that this edition would be dedicated to Popoyo Outer Reef I immediately contacted Oliver Solís. I asked him if he would agree to an interview. Sure!

A few days later I found myself on the way to Playa Gigante, where he currently lives. We never actually sat down to roll tape on the first or second day—the surf was too good. By the third day the waves had dropped and the interview was on.

Surfnica: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?Oliver: I was born in 1999 in Managua, but raised in San Juan del Sur, Masachapa and Popoyo. Since I was a little boy my father would take me to San Juan del Sur. I always went to the beach and played with a cousin. I was always closet to the water then.

How did you get your first surfboard?My father started working with some people from Los Angeles, California. They had two longboards and one boogie. The first time I surfed was on a longboard at Playa Remanso. I was around eight years old.But before this I used to see some kids who would shape boards of poroplast and I got into that. One of these kids was my cousin who using a machete to shape boogies. When I was 11 I was given a 6’0”. It was my first board. I had to pay for it, cleaning their pool for a whole year (laughing).

I guess that from this event, the history connects with other local surfers. How and when did you join them?The first surfers were Chucheca, Gio and Payin [he only remember the nicknames]. All were from San Juan del Sur. In the second group there was Sergio, Marlon and Euclides, and they got involved with the first ones. Then there were around eight boys and they all took turns with a classic Fox surfboard. Later, some Aussies came and sold us boards, all classic single or twin fins. When I got my first board I joined them, hanging out with Sergio and Chucheca. I quickly learned to ride the wave.

So you stayed surfing in the area?Yes, until 1999.

How and when was your first encounter with a big wave?I always surfed the large swells that hit San Juan Del Sur beach break, but there was another wave we surfed, bigger and heavier. Which wave?In 2000 I started to work with J.J. in Popoyo. While I worked there, I followed him and saw him out there surfing and told him, “I want to surf over there with you!” He told me I was crazy, that the wave would kill me. But eventually that year I started surfing the reef with him. It was intimidating. I was scared. But I went for it. My first three waves were all wipeouts that caused me

great pain. But one day, during another swell, we were having a great session out there. All the guys were tranquilo, all charging. Suddenly a large set hit and I dropped in on the big one! That’s when everything started. When I made this drop I realized that I could surf this wave.

What happened next?From this day on I surfed every large swell with J.J. I was learning a lot watching the pros. I saw how they dropped in from very deep, from the very inside. But this wave hurts too. You have to have a strong mind to surf it.

Did you ever find yourself surfing with a San Juan del Sur local with whom you started?Yes, most of them have surfed this wave, with medium size swells of about seven feet. But they are still shy about it. I invite all these guys to come out whenever they’re up for it.

I watched the film Centro Nicaragua by Tyler Bliss. Kervin Lopez said that you have no fear about anything, is that true?No, I am scared! I have fear when I think about what can happen if my head hit the reef. When you fall from a big waves it’s an adventure because you don’t know what’s going to happen.You’re risking your life?Of course yes! But also if you think too much of getting hurt, that’s when you will really get hurt. When you don’t

Oliver Solís¿pasión o locura? bY cESAR MEDINA

PHOTO: DONALD STONE

29

think and just go tranquilo to enjoy this energy then you get confidence, you begin to listen to the ocean. The ocean is alive, there is a special energy in it.

Do you practice any kind of ritual before going to surf the Reef?Oliver: No, I just train, put my life before God and go. I am happy when I surf it. I feel the adrenaline exploding in my body.

Despite your ability surfing the Reef, I suppose you have had some interesting experiences?There was a large swell, it was J.J., Yamil Amador and I. It was one of those special days, top-to-bottom 20-footers. I had already caught four waves, I felt safe. Then I went deeper, I paddled for a wave and the wind, which was very strong, pushed me back and I fell from the peak. When I was falling I thought, “This wave is going to hurt me.” And it did. When I landed I just felt the hit on my head and my vision darkened. J.J. helped me going in, I had a broken rib and my shoulder was seriously hurt, it was one of my most difficult experiences.

I heard you went on a surf trip to United States. Share with us.I went to San Diego in California, surfed Blacks Beach with double to triple overhead sets. It is a very fun beachbreak. I used a 6’6” and there were lots of freefalls (laughs). I went to Maverick’s but it was flat.

Mavericks is another level, what if it would have been breaking?I would have paddled out, I swear I would, at least to sit on the peak. After that I went snowboarding to Alaska, and finally went to Hawaii where I surfed Sunset Beach and the wonderful Pipeline. We even got Waimea on a medium size day. a medium size swell. Behind Sunset there’s a reef break, the peak is wild, it breaks right and left, and on this wave I was a bit shy because it is shallower. When you drop you can see the reef, and the only thought I had in mind was, “I don’t want to fall here!” I dream about going to Indonesia, going to Tahiti to surf Teahupoo, even though it looks scary. I would

like to have the chance and see if I can.

Any last words to conclude?Brother, I thank the ocean and God for the ocean. Thanks God for giving me the opportunity to surf there.I want to invite my friend

Codo, who has a new gun, to come join me. I know there are a lot of guys who have the skills and they know who they are. I don’t know their feelings and I know that surfing this wave is not for everybody. Surfing Popoyo Outer Reef is like a game that opens your senses, you start listening to the nature, the ocean language, and you feel the energy of God.

Thank you very much, Oliver. Let’s go surfing now!You are welcome Medina. Let’s go!

Oliver Solis recently started his own business with the Monkey House Hostel (Playa Gigante), which is located just three minutes from Playa Amarillo and 20 minutes from Playa Iguana (Colorado).

“If I die while surfing it doesn’t matter because I was already ready for that day.” --

Oliver Solís.

PHOTO: DONALD STONE

30

Una vez supe que esta edición sería dedicada a Popoyo Outer Reef, inmediatamente me comuniqué con Oliver Solís, y le pregunté si estaba de acuerdo que le hiciéramos una entrevista. Rápidamente contesto:

¡Claro que sí! … Pocos días después me encontraba camino a Playa Gigante, lugar en el cual reside.

Ni el primer ni el segundo día fue posible pues había un buen oleaje golpeando. La primera excusa fue que haríamos la entrevista después de surfear y la segunda que estábamos cansados y la haríamos al día siguiente.

Finalmente al tercer día le dije: ¡Oliver! ¡No hemos hecho la entrevista!, a lo que él respondió: ¡Hoy sí la haremos por la tarde! (unos segundos después) ¡Después de surfear! Me puse a reír y le dije: ¡Dale pues, pero tiene que ser hoy!

César: Oliver, cuéntanos un poco sobre ti. Preséntate en breve ante cada lector dentro y fuera de Nicaragua.Oliver: Nací el veintidós de septiembre de mil novecientos setenta y nueve, en Managua, pero me crié en San Juan del Sur, Masachapa y Popoyo. Desde que era un bebé, mi papá me llevaba a San Juan del Sur y siempre iba a jugar a la playa con un primo. Igualmente cuando iba a Masachapa o al Astillero. Siempre estaba cerca del océano.

¿Cómo llegó el primer surfboard a tus manos?Mi papá empezó a trabajar con unas personas de California, y ellos tenían dos longboards y un boogie. La primera vez que surfié usé una de sus longboards, en playa Remanso, tenía aproximadamente ocho años.Antes de esto, miraba a los chavalos que cortaban unas tablas de poroplast, y me les uní. Uno de estos chavalos era mi primo, quien usando un machete, les daba la forma de boogie.Cuando tenía once, me trajeron una tabla mexicana 6’0”, fue mi primera tabla. Tuve que trabajar limpiando la piscina por un año para pagarla (risas).

Me imagino que a partir de este suceso la historia se conecta con los otros surfistas locales. ¿Cómo y cuándo te les uniste?Los primeros que iniciaron fueron: “Chucheca”, “Gio” y”Payin” (increíblemente sólo los recuerda por los sobrenombres), todos de San Juan del Sur. En el segundo grupo estaba Sergio, Marlon y Euclides, quienes se involucraron con los primeros. Al final eran como ocho chavalos y todos se turnaban una tabla Fox clásica. Luego vinieron unos australianos y les vendieron tablas, todas clásicas, de una o dos quillas. Cuanto obtuve mi primera tabla me uní y empecé a surfear con Sergio y “Chucheca”. Rápidamente aprendí a correr la ola y realizar pequeños cortes. “Chucheca” me daba raid a playa Yankee, y usualmente iba con “Gio”.

Luego me imagino que te quedaste surfeando en el área.Sí, me quedé como hasta 1999.

¿Cuándo y cómo llego el primer encuentro con una ola grande?Siempre surfeaba los oleajes grandes que entraban a San Juan del Sur, en el beach-break. Pero había una ola más grande y pesada que surfeábamos.

¿Cuál?-risas-. En el 2000 empecé a trabajar con J.J. en Popoyo. Al estar trabajando ahí, lo seguí, lo miré surfeando y le dije: ¡Yo quiero surfear allá con vos! ¡Vos estás loco, esa ola te va a matar!”, me respondió.Ese año empecé a surfear el Reef con él pero ¡era intimidante, me daba miedo!, hasta que decidí hacerlo y mis primeras tres olas fueron caídas y causaban mucho dolor con solo la presión y energía de la ola. Pero un día entró un oleaje y esa fue la continuación: fue un día especial. Todos estaban tranquilos en el Reef, todos tomando olas, y de repente entró un set grandísimo, y ¡bajé la grande! Ahí comenzó todo, cuando bajé esa ola supe que podía surfear ahí. Sentí como que estuve “conversando” con la ola,

Oliver Solís¿pasión o locura?

“Surfeo todo tipo de ola, pero cuando surfeo Outer Reef, es otra cosa, es como una droga

man”. “Si muero en la ola, no importa, porque ya estaba listo pare ese día”,

Oliver Solís.Extraído de Centro Nicaragua por Tyler Bliss

PHOTO: DONALD STONE

31

analizando si podía o no podía.“Oliveeeer, miré tu ola grande”, me decían todos. No lo podía creer. El sentimiento de surfear ahí es increíble, es salvaje (con una gran sonrisa y emoción en su rostro).

Entonces ¿Qué pasó?A partir de este día, cada oleaje que entraba me iba con J.J. y aprendí viendo a profesionales; miraba como ellos se tiraban profundos, desde adentro. Entonces, aprendí a ir más adentro; pero esa ola lastima mucho también.La mente es clave. Cuando logras una “liberación mental” es fácil, porque tienes confianza y cada ola que bajas es como un juego.

¿Te encontraste en algún momento surfeando con algún local de San Juan del Sur, con quienes iniciaste a surfear?Si, la mayoría de ellos han surfeado esta ola, con oleajes medianos como de siete pies. Pero aún tienen timidez de esta ola (risas).Yo invito a todos los chavalos, a quien sienten que pueden bajar y dominar esta ola, que continúe practicando, ¡que no me dejen solo!

Oliver, mire la película Centro Nicaragua de Tyler Bliss, Kervin López dice que no le tienes miedo a nada. ¿Es cierto?¡Sí tengo miedo! Siento miedo cuando pienso en lo que puede pasar si golpeo mi cabeza contra el arrecife. Cuando te caes de una ola grande es una aventura porque no sabes lo que pasará.

¿Arriesgas tu vida entonces?¡Claro que sí! Pero si piensas mucho en que te puedes lastimar, es cuando realmente te lastimas. Pero cuando no piensas y te vas tranquilo a disfrutar esa energía, entonces ganas confianza, empiezas a escuchar el océano y éste te escucha. ¡El océano está vivo, hay una energía especial!

Hay una sincronización con la ola y empiezas a leerla mejor; luego empiezas a bajar una y otra de estas bestias. Visualizas como lo hiciste y prácticas en tu mente para estar preparado para la siguiente.

¿Practicas algún tipo de ritual antes de ir a surfear?No, solamente entreno, me encomiendo a Dios y voy. Me siento feliz cuando surfeo esa ola; siento la adrenalina que explota en mi cuerpo.

A pesar de tu habilidad surfeando el Reef, supongo que has tenido tus “experiencias interesantes”.Si, una vez que había un oleaje gigante; solo estábamos J.J., Yamil Amador y yo. Era uno

de esos días especiales, sólo bombas tubulares de veinte pies a más estaban rompiendo. Ya había tomado cuatro olas, me sentí seguro y me fui más profundo, remé una ola y el offshore, que estaba muy fuerte, me detuvo y me caí desde el pico. Cuando iba cayendo pensé: “esta ola me va a lastimar”, y en efecto al caer, sentí el golpe en la cabeza y mi visión se oscureció. J.J. me ayudó a salir; tenía una costilla rota y el hombro lastimado, fue una de mis experiencias más difíciles.Puede que sientas que estás en tus mejores días, pero nunca tendrás el control;

puede que pases bajando olas todo el día pero en cualquier momento tienes que “pagar los impuestos”.Según se, fuiste en un surf trip a Estados Unidos. Compártenos.Fui a San Diego en California, surfié Black Beach de dos a tres cuerpos. Es un beach-break muy divertido, usé una tabla 6’6” y eran unas grandes caídas libres (risas). Fui a buscar Mavericks, pero estaba plano.

Pero ya sabemos que Mavericks es otro nivel. ¿Y si hubiera estado rompiendo?La hubiera remado, te lo juro que sí. Aunque sea a sentarme en el pico.Después fui a Alaska a practicar snowboard, y por último a Hawái donde surfié Sunset Beach, y el majestuoso Pipeline con oleaje mediano., y Waimea grande.Detrás de Sunset hay un reef break, el pico es violento, rompe derecha e izquierda, y en esta ola estuve un poco tímido porque es más seco. Cuando bajas la ola puedes ver el arrecife, y lo único que pensaba era: ¡No me quiero caer aquí! Sueño con ir a Indonesia, surfear Teahupo’o, aunque se mira intimidante; quisiera tener la oportunidad de ver si puedo.

¿Algunas palabras para concluir?Hermano, le doy gracias al océano, y a Dios porque tengo el océano. ¡Gracias a Dios por darme esta oportunidad de surfear ahí!Quiero invitar a mi amigo “Codo” quien tiene un nuevo gun. Yo sé que hay varios chavalos que tienen la capacidad y ellos saben quiénes son; no conozco sus sentimientos; y sé que surfear esa ola no es para todos.

Surfear Popoyo Outer Reef es como un juego que abre tus sentidos, los cuales se agudizan porque estás al límite. En este instante, es cuando empiezas a escuchar la naturaleza, el lenguaje del océano, y sientes la energía de Dios. Todo tu ser, tu energía y tu cuerpo lo pones a prueba en la cual puedes resultar muy lastimado.

Muchas gracias Oliver. ¡Vamos a surfear ahora!De nada Medina. ¡Vamos!

Oliver Solís recientemente inició su propio negocio con el Monkey House Hostel (playa Gigante), el cual está ubicado a tres minutos de playa Amarillo y veinte de playa Iguana (Colorado).

“Surfear Popoyo Outer Reef es como un juego que abre tus sentidos, estos se agudizan porque estás al límite, es cuando empiezas a escuchar la naturaleza, el lenguaje del océano, y sientes la energía de Dios. Todo tu ser, tu energía y

tu cuerpo lo pones a prueba en la cual puedes resultar muy lastimado.”

Oliver Solís.

PHOTO: RObERTO GARcIA/NSR

Accommodations / Dining

Bussines Name Location Web site Email Phone DescriptionBuena Onda Beach Resort Playa Jiquelite (Santana) www.buenaondabeachresort.com info@buenaondaresort.com (505) 8973-0101 Surf Camp / Restaurant.

Camino del Sol San Juan del Sur www.elcaminodelsol.com jason@elcaminodelsol.com (505) 8368-3943 Hotel / Yoga Retreat

Hotel Casa Romano San Juan del Sur ------------------- theblueland@gmail.com (505) 2568-2200 Hotel

Hostal Esperanza San Juan del Sur www.hostelesperanza.com hostelesperanzasjs@gmail.com (505) 8754-6816 Surf Hostel

Hotel Gran Océano San Juan del Sur www.hotelgranoceano.com.ni hgoceano@ibw.com.ni(505) 25682219(505) 25682428

Hotel

Hotel La Estación/ Restaurante El Buen Gusto

San Juan del Sur www.laestacion.com.ni laestacionhotel@gmail.com(505) 2568-2304(505) 2568-2747

Hotel / Restaurant

Hotel Royal Chateau San Juan del Sur www.hotelroyalchateau.com hotelroyalchateau@yahoo.com 25682551 Hotel

Gigante Bay Playa Gigante www.gigantebay.com gigantebay@gmail.com (505) 8712-8888 Hostel / Restaurant

Iguana Surf Playa Colorado www.iguanasurfrental.com surfnica@hotmail.com (505) 8736-0656 Surf Lodge

Magnific Rock Playa Popoyo www.magnificrockpopoyo.com info@ magnificrockpopoyo.com (505) 8916-6916 Surf Lodge

Milagro del Mar Playa San Diego www.lavidanica.com angela.smetana@lavidanica.com (505) 8354-1104 Hotel / Surf

Rest. Brisas Marinas San Juan del Surwww.restaurante-brisasmarinas.

blogspot.com/restaurantebrisasmarinas@

gmail.com(505) 2568-3014 Restaurant

Seeking Santosha San Juan del Surwww.seekingsantoshanicaragua.

comheidi@seekingsantoshanicara-

gua.comYoga Retreat

Mango Rosa Playa Maderas www.mangorosanicaragua.com lapangarosa@gmail.com.com (505) 8879-4796 Hotel Restaurant

Turtle Lodge Playa Poneloya www.surfingturtlelodge.com info@surfingturtlelodge.com (505) 8640-0644 Hotel / Restaurant

Hotel Hamacas Playa Astillero www.hostalhamacas.com info@hostalhamacas.com (505) 8810-4144 Hotel / Restaurant

Gaviota Surf Lodge Playa Gigante gaviota.surf@gmail.com gaviota.surf@gmail.com (505) 8666-7008 Hotel / Restaurant

SurfNica Waves San Juan del Sur www.surfnicawaves.com travel@surfnicawaves.com (800) 679-1947 Surf Shop / Tours

Avis National www.avis.com.ni pendiente (505) 2233-3011 Rent a Car

Budget National www.budget.com.ni reserve@budget.com.ni (505) 2255-9000 Rent a Car

Hotel Casa Romano San Juan del Sur ------------------- theblueland@gmail.com (505) 2568-2200 Hotel

Rest. Brisas Marinas San Juan del Surwww.restaurante-brisasmarinas.

blogspot.com/restaurantebrisasmarinas@

gmail.com(505) 2568-3014 Restaurant

AquaLimpia de Nicaragua Managua www.aqualimpia.com.ni amejia@aqualimpia.com.ni (505) 8451-4130 Environmental Services