By Chelsea Johns


A few years ago, you might have thought “Kealamakia. Who?” Well, after sweeping the 2007 NSSA Nationals and Regionals, Kealamakia Naihe’s name is on the lips of peers, sponsors and surf-enthusiasts wondering why they hadn’t taken notice sooner. They might also be wondering what sort of Surf Comp Boot Camp these Big Island groms are going through to take the top spot at almost every event they enter. From Tonino Benson to Lahiki Minamishin to Keala, there’s no slowing down the new breed of Kailua-Kona super-surfers. FSM is pleased to introduce you to Kealamakia Naihe.

Name: Kealamakia Naihe
Age: 13
Stance: Regular
Sponsors: No Fear, Body Glove, Globe, Spy, Dan Taylor Surfboards, Bubble Gum Wax, OAM Accessories and F.B.I. (From Big Island)
School: Kealakehe High School
Home Break: Banyans and Old A’s
Post Session Grinds: Hayashis
Video Game System: PS3
Movie: Super Bad and Campaign 2
Best Placing: 1st Open Boys 2007 NSSA Nationals
Music: The Game and Andre Nickatina
Favorite Activity When Not Surfing: Eating
Surfers: Mick Fanning, Shane Dorian and Andy Irons
Maneuvers: Airs
Friend’s List: “Everyone.”
Animals: Dogs and Mongoose
Foreign Place: Tahiti
Surf Trip Dream Destination: Mentawais
Best Advice: From Pops: “Never give up!”

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Highlights in your surfing career: Winning NSSA Nationals
Best Contest Results (at least three):
1st Open Boys 2007 NSSA Nationals
2nd Explorer Menehune 2007 NSSA Nationals
1st Explorer Menehune 2007 NSSA Regionals