More than 1,000 people turned out for Costa Rica’s only Caribbean Coast professional surf contest, “The Puerto Viejo Open Pro / Kolbi Cup” last Saturday in Puerto Viejo.

Not only did loads of surf fans show up to watch, but tons of talent came as well. Puerto Viejo local legend and surf champion Gilbert Brown showed, along with Jordan Hernandez, Kemba, and his little brother Ronald Brown. Big names from all over the country appeared at the contest. Names like, Luis Vindas, Jason Torres, Maikol Torres, Ariel Guitierrez and Dani Bishko, just to state a few.

24 year old Ronald Brown took the contest for the fourth time last weekend, but it was close. Luis Vindas edged Ronald out with the highest score in the semi finals event. Ronald Brown came back strong in the finals to win the close competition for 1st place overall, beating out Luis Vindas who placed 2^nd overall and Jordan Hernandez who took third in the Kolbi Cup.

“There’s a lot of talent in the Caribbean, but the Pacific is where you have to be (if you’re a surfer). That’s where the perseverance is, along with the brands and the sponsors. But not everyone has the resources to live or travel there. That’s why this circuit is so good. It provides more opportunities and experience for local youth, and instead of using drugs, they can take part in a sport,” Ronald Brown said of his 4^th victory.

“Waves are great in the Caribbean when they’re up. On a good day, they’re world-class. Salsa Brava and Beachbreak are incredible. The Pacific is more constant, but the power and the quality tubes are here. Salsa Brava is one of the best waves in Central America. Everyone’s left flesh and teeth there,” Brown added.

Alberto Torres who organizes the competition and is its founder as well said, “To think that all this started over a bowl of rondón [a regional fish soup cooked in coconut milk] on the beach. We were all local surfers back then. Look at it now,” as he looked about at the 1,000 plus people in the crowd. “It’s really gratifying to be able to hold the Open Pro, which is an opportunity to showcase our talented local surfers.”