The Rip Curl Grom Search, held at the New Smyrna Beach Inlet, went down last Sunday in fun, although shifty, 2-4 foot surf. Christian Surfers Sebastian Inlet went up to help out our CS New Smyrna chapter as well as Connie Howard ( our ever present surf servant) and Sam Jordan (CS Daytona Beach) who were in charge of the event. We arrived at 6:00 am to make the 2 mile trek along the boardwalk to the beach, so we could have the tents and equipment up before the beach opened up to the cars. After two trips along the boardwalk and setting everything up we got a quick 30 minute surf and then the cars started coming.

We were there with all of our stuff; DVD’s, food, drinks, Bibles, individual gospels, t-shirts… and had a great day. We actually had 20 people take the Surfers Bibles within the first two hours of the contest. We sold a few t-shirts and went through about 40 Noah’s Ark DVD’s and of course all of our food and drinks. We meet so many people from all over but by far, the crew from Barbados had come the longest distance. They actually had 3 of the 4 finalists in the girls division. We saw a lot of CS stickers going on boards too so that was cool. It was nice to see Missy from CS Gainesville there with her daughter, who was competing in the contest also.

CS Sebastian grom Tommy Coleman made the trip up as did Sebastian ripper Logan Hayes. Tommy (7 years old) who surfed in the 12 and under division, went out in the morning surf that was almost to consistent. The swells were about 5 seconds apart and made for a tough paddle and an inconsistent line-up. Although he placed well, it was not enough to advance. Logan however made it through to the finals and placed 3rd in the 12 and under division. Evan Geiselman won the 16 and under division.

Thanks to everyone who came out (Jon & Kathy, Bill & Kate, Sherri, Noah, the New Smyrna groms, Connie and Sam). This was a great time and gave us an opportunity to meet and speak with a lot of people. More importantly is gave us an opportunity to share Christ and to give him the glory.