The 30-year-old Pupukea resident does not travel with either world tour, getting paid primarily to surf the big waves on Oahu's North Shore and compete in a handful of events held there each winter season.
In the finals of the season kickoff event yesterday, Sullivan overcame both a trio of up-and-coming young pros and a major lull that provided not a single wave for most of the 35-minute heat, to win his third career Xcel Pro title at Sunset Beach.
The dearth of waves "really starts to get in your head a little bit, you start second-guessing your game plan," Sullivan said. "But I've started working with a coach -- Rainos Hayes -- and he really emphasizes that I be confident in my ability -- which I am. Also, really focus on getting the set waves, putting myself in positions to get those waves, and making those waves count."
"I just feel blessed to be able to surf for a living, get an opportunity to get in the ocean every day, and I just try to take complete advantage of that," he added. "Surfing in these contests is just one aspect of the sport that I enjoy, but it definitely feels good to win."
... "What I express in my surfing is commitment, and I try to dig deep and surf every wave as hard as I can," Sullivan said. "Ultimately, the most critical maneuvers are going to win the event, and that's what I'm looking for."
fresh content posted
