Today, the WSL announced that the Cold Water Classic will make its return to Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz as a Qualifying Series 1,000 event November 15-19. As you might remember, the Cold Water Classic almost saw a return to the CT in 2020, but was canceled due to pandemic concerns. This November, QS hopefuls will be joined by top CT competitors such as Griffin Colapinto, Kolohe Andino, and Santa Cruz local Nat Young, who is stoked to see the event return to his home break, an event which he won at just 17.
“It’s pretty epic to have the Cold Water Classic back after all these years,” said Young. “It’s been over ten years since I’ve done it and it’s awesome to have it back since the event is such a big part of the surf culture up here in Santa Cruz. It’s really good for the next generation as well because it’s such an iconic event. You look back and the whole cliff is just lined with people, and you can hear all of them out there while you’re in the water. (The Lane) has the atmosphere of an arena more than anywhere else in the world.”
