Kekoa Bacalso : photo ASP Cestari/Covered Images

Team News

BAM! Rip Curl’s Kekoa Bacalso Qualifies for ASP World Tour

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 25 November, 2008 : - - Costa Mesa, Ca -- The 2005 ASP World Junior Champion and Hawaiian powerhouse thoroughbred, Kekoa Bam Bacalso, has officially achieved his lifelong dream by qualifying for the 2009 elite ASP World Tour.

Coming into the Reef Hawaiian Pro, the first jewel of the Vans Triple Crown, Bacalso was sitting outside the bubble in 21 st  place on the ASP WQS ratings.  “It was all-in. All my chips were in the pot,” said a relieved Bam shortly after the event. “I surfed as hard as I could.”

After pummeling his way through round after round, Bam found himself pitted in the final amidst his peers in absolute flawless Haleiwa; a very fitting scenario, considering Bacalso began his competitive career as a menehune at the famed break. His 3 rd  place finish guaranteed him ’09 ASP World Tour qualification.

“I’m speechless,” continued Bam. “To accomplish my dream here at Haleiwa can’t be justified by words. I’m just going to take it all in and start preparing for next year.”

Although Kekoa will be a rookie next year, over the last 3 years, Bam has netted some solid ASP World Tour event experience through wildcard slots into the Rip Curl Pro Search in Mexico, the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, and the Rip Curl Pro Search in Arica, Chile.

Rip Curl congratulates Bam on his achievement and we wish him the best of luck on the 2009 ASP World Tour.

www.ripcurl.com

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Chelsea Johns

Team - Surfersvillage