18th Annual Town and Country Grom Contest 2015

By Lauren Rolland

For 18 years, T&C Surf has put on a surf event that symbolizes summer on Oahu. Groms of all ages gather at Queens in Waikiki to be part of the family-friendly weekend affair known as the T&C Grom Contest. On Saturday and Sunday, May 16th & 17th, the weather and waves cooperated for two beautiful beach days while keiki and parents refreshed in the clear waters of Oahu.

Each year the event grows, both in contestants and in crowd, and this time around the event saw nearly 300 participants. For many surfers, the T&C Grom Contest is where they got their start in comps, and while the vibe remains fun, easy and friendly, there’s no denying the groms are eager to win trophies and prizes.

Throughout the day, games, food and music entertained the families, with grinds sponsored by Chili’s and pop up tents from Sun Bum, Naked Juice, Go Pro, Surf Tech and Freesurf providing shade and activities. Pros like the Moniz brothers, Joel Centeio, Billy Kemper, Kekoa Bacalso, Macy Mullen, Love Hodel and more were present to give support to the groms and push their own keiki into the gentle waves.

Photos: Tony Heff, Tyler Rock, and Keoki Saguibo