Sara Freyre at her homebreak in Huntington Beach. Photo: Courtesy of Hurley
Born and raised in Huntington Beach, California, Sara Freyre is no stranger to surfing the Huntington Beach Pier. Luckily for Freyre, countless contests are held in Surf City each year, giving her plenty of opportunities for home turf advantage. In early July, the high school junior secured her second NSSA national open women’s title at her home break, surrounded by family and friends. Here, Freyre shares how she first got into surfing, what it was like winning her second NSSA title, and what she likes to do when she’s not surfing.
How did you first get into surfing?
From my family. My mom and dad would always take me and my siblings down to the beach. We would play in the ocean while my dad surfed. He would put us on his surfboard and help us become comfortable in the ocean and on a board from a young age. Everyone in my family surfs.
Photo: Courtesy of Hurley
When did you first start competing?
I did a few WSA contests when I was around 10, but I really only started competing about two years ago in the NSSA and USA Surfing events.
What have been some of your top results to date?
Two NSSA national open women’s titles and two California state varsity titles, and equal 5th in a couple QS events in the WSL.
What was it like securing your second NSSA title?
It was pretty surreal. It was at my home break, south side Huntington Beach Pier, where my friends and family were down there supporting me.
Photo: Courtesy of Hurley
Do you attend homeschool or public school?
I attend public school at Huntington Beach High School. I will be a junior in the fall and I have maintained an average 4.0 GPA both years. School is important to me as I want to get into a good university eventually.
How would you describe your surf style?
I aspire to be like Stephanie Gilmore. I’ve grown up watching her surf and I like her style.
Who are you rooting for to win the Championship Tour this year?
Caity Simmers, for sure.
Photo: Courtesy of Hurley
What are your surfing goals looking forward?
Looking forward, I’d like to get onto the Challenger Series in the WSL.
Do you have plans to attend college?
I do but I’m so focused on surfing. I don’t really know what major I will pick yet.
What do you like to do when you’re not surfing?
When I’m not surfing, I like to skateboard, train, and travel. I love warm water and empty lineups! I also like to spend time with my friends and have a regular high school experience which is the best of both worlds. I try not to take things too seriously and just try and have fun!
