Shayden Kaulana Dela Cruz – Pacarro

By Sean Reilly

Hometown: Pohoiki, Big Island
DOB: June 9, 1997
Height/ Weight: 5’6 ft./130 lbs.
Stance: Goofy
Sponsors: Hurley, HIC, Arnette and of course my friends and family.

Do you have any nicknames?

I have a bunch of nicknames like Shaydo P or Shades or Shaydo.

Where do you call home?

I call Pohoiki home. It’s where I feel most comfortable to do anything I want without being judged. Everyone around here knows each other and it’s like we’re one big family. Pohoiki is also my homebreak. That’s where I surf every day.

What grade are you in and where do you go to school?

I’m a senior attending Pahoa High & Intermediate school. My favorite subject is body conditioning and science.

What’s your quiver look like?

My go to board is an Eric Arakawa 5’9 x 18.25 x 2.25 Amplifier model. Or a 5’8 x 18.25 x 2.25 GX model. The rest of my quiver is all pretty similar with some bigger boards for when the waves get bigger.

What is your first memory of surfing?

My first memory of surfing was paddling out on some surfboard and trying to learn how to catch waves and stand up. It’s definitely a standout moment because if it wasn’t for that day I don’t know if I would be the person I am today. It changed my life and now all I want to do is surf.

When did you start competing?

I started competing when I was about 11 or 12 years old.

Where is your favorite surf spot and why?

My favorite spot is a place at home called Dead Trees because it’s a gnarly sketchy slab that not very many people can or do surf.

What is your favorite part about surfing?

My favorite part about surfing is definitely getting drained. It’s a feeling like no other feeling in the world.

Favorite surfer?

Andy Irons because he’s a power surfer with style and he charges!

Any friendly rivalries?

Ulu boy. We grew up and surfed together pretty much our whole lives and we always compete against each other in the same division. Hahahaha… The funniest contest moment would be getting a wave from him in a heat because he’s so much bigger than I am.

Motivations?

The thrill and the competition motivate me to keep surfing. Oh, and people at home that keep me in the right state of mind.

What is your favorite post session grindz?

Ummmm… Cheese burger or shave ice. Sometimes both 🙂 haha

Do you have any hidden talents?

Hidden talent would be riding a motorcycle.

Any future goals?

To be the world champ!

When you’re not surfing, what else do you like to do?

When I’m not surfing I like to hang out with the crew.

Smooth or Chunky?

Smooth