Jackson Giek (17) surfs Sunset Cliffs

Local?

Yes, I live in sunset cliffs

Who taught you how to surf?

I learned how to surf when I was really young. My dad taught me when I was 6 or 7, but didn't really start until I was 12.

Do you have a favorite local spot?

The Cliffs.

What's your best surf memory?

My best memory surfing was my first time getting out of a legit barrel at Blacks.

What's the craziest thing you've seen in the water?

I’ve seen a lot of crazy stuff in the water. People getting beat up for leashes or for burning people, plenty of dolphins, and sharks. And a 60 kilogram bag of fruit from Brazil that must’ve fell off a boat.

Have you had any surfing injuries?

I've sprained my ankles a couple times, but never anything too serious. I have been in a couple long hold downs.

How often do you surf?

I surf almost every day. I miss a couple days here and there.

Do you have a favorite board?

My favorite board is an Osprey by Dane Perlee. It’s a long board with a square tail and sharp edges. Also has a single fin set up, with a pair of skinny fins just behind the bigger single fin.

What do you love the most about surfing?

There’s a certain feeling that you can only get by surfing. It’s impossible to describe in words. Doing challenging moves or making hard sections give a great sense of accomplishment.

Is there surfing etiquette you wish other people would follow?

There’s a lot of people who surf that shouldn’t be surfing certain waves. I’m not saying that they can’t surf at a certain spot, but there are some spots that you should learn to surf at, and other spots that you should only go to once you’ve been surfing for long enough to appreciate it. It’s a level of respect that seems to be disregarded more and more now.

Any advice for new surfers?

Don’t give up too early and don’t get discouraged too fast. It takes commitment to learn how to surf. Learn at a break that’s appropriate. Try to avoid getting in other people’s way. At the same time, push yourself. Falling is good.