Panama Secures a Spot at the ISA China Cup

Around this time each year, on the Pacific coast of Panama, world renowned waves begin to break. Well known surf spots like Santa Catalina offer consistant, powerful waves, bringing an abundance of surf competitions to the secluded shores. Last month La Playa went to Santa Catalina for the International Surfing Association’s (ISA), World Surfing Games (WSG). We watched excitedly as Panamanian Jean Carlos “Oli” Gonzalez won the silver medal in the men’s open competetion, securing Panama a spot in the upcoming ISA China Cup in January 2014. This was the first time Panama has placed in the medals at ISA WSG, an event recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

We stood between the Argentinian and Jamacian teams, amongst photographers, officals and locals as the medals were received. Seeing Oli win silver brought a smile to every face in sight. Even the local police had gathered to cheer on the hometown hero. The officals couldn’t help but announce it. “Oli, el grande ganador.”

Oli is from Santa Catalina and lives in San Carlos. At the young age of 18, he is an extremely talented surfer. We spoke to Oli before his first heat at the ISA WSG, and asked what it meant to him to have the games held at a surf spot he calls home.  

“It is a great honor to have the ISA World Surfing Games for the fourth time in Panama”, said Oli, “it gives us an advantage and it encourages a generation of new surfers to go forward.”

Next year, the Oli and the Panaimanian surfing team will embark on an all expenses paid trip to the ISA China Cup, these Panamanian surf talents will compete amongst the other six highest scoring teams. This is the first time Panama will be in attendence.

We spoke with Oli about the ISA China Cup:

“ I am super excited to visit a country I don’t know… and to get to go with everyone.”

We are excited too, Oli. Congratulations Team Panama!

Photo courtesy of the International National Surfing Association (ISA)