For Sophia Culhane, the Future is Bright

All photos courtesy of Tommy Pierucki

Sophia Culhane soars down a perfect Malibu wave. In a teal wetsuit with a bright red competition rash guard, she moves effortlessly up and down the face as well as her board, holding her balance and hanging ten. Her chance of becoming the youngest longboard world champion ever is on the line in this heat, and she is within inches of her goal.

The sun sparkles on the water. The clear blue skies complement the calm, rolling sets, making it an ideal day for the 2022 Cuervo Classic Longboard Championship Finals. It’s almost as if the ocean is omniscient, knowing what is expected of it. 

Both Sophia and her opponent, Soleil Errico, display technical excellence and style on the Southern California waves. But Soleil ends up with more points and comes out ahead. As the heat ends, Sophia approaches Soleil, congratulating her on the win with a hug. A loss handled with grace in the true spirit of aloha.

This loss, while disappointing, won’t diminish Sophia’s poise or dictate her future. “I have refocused and I am excited for this 2023 tour,” she says.

© Tommy Pierucki

Sophia has a mature perspective on competing. She regards every heat as a chance to grow and every moment as an opportunity to gain new wisdom. The young surfer’s mindset shows that surfing is not just a sport, but a way of life.

Surfing has been Sophia’s lifelong commitment since her first experience on a surfboard at age four. At home in Hawai’i, she surfs daily with her circle of friends, male and female. Surfing feels more egalitarian than other sports; as Sophia notes, equal prize money is the norm in most competitions. By surrounding herself with good friends and immersing herself in surfing, Sophia is able to reach her goals and sustain her dreams. 

Sophia’s positive mindset and genuine love for the sport make her an incredible role model for girls who want to emulate her career path, many of whom are not much younger than her. She knows that her talent is inspiring and strives to show other girls that they can achieve athletic success at a young age. 

© Tommy Pierucki

“Remember always to have fun, have a plan and goals, and enjoy the journey,” says Sophia. Her road has not always been an easy one. “There are many ups and downs,” she says. But even experiences that seem negative carry lessons. Having a great team and strong support system is her advice for navigating those challenging times. “Know that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”

The tide that is Sophia Culhane came in rapidly. The young competitor tears up her heats with unique style and grace. Though longboarders are often thought of as docile, getting in Sophia’s way in a wave battle would be a mistake. For Sophia, surfing is not just a job but a hobby, a passion, and a lifestyle. Her drive to win the 2023 Longboard Championships this fall makes her one to watch.