“It’s amazing how I can watch the same video 100 times and have a different experience each time.”
At the age of 3, Carissa began surfing, and at the age of 8, became a member of the world's largest amateur surfing organization (NSSA - National Scholastic Surfing Association). By the time Carissa was ending high school (honor student at Punahou High School...the same school that President Obama graduated from), she had amassed a record 13 NSSA National Surfing Titles, a record that still stands today. Upon joining the World Surfing Tour (ASP - Association of Surfing Professionals), Carissa became the youngest surfer, male or female, in the history of the sport, to become World Champion at the age of 18.
Two years later Carissa became the youngest surfer to earn 2 World Titles. Currently 21 years old, Carissa is once again in the hunt for a World Title, with 4 contests remaining in this calendar year. Carissa loves to be able to share her struggles in life with fellow girls on social media.
In addition to the glamorous world that Carissa finds herself a part of, she makes it a point to let girls know that it's ok to be depressed when a boy breaks up with you....that it's no big deal when your acne breaks out....that's it's not easy to stay in shape and keep the extra weight off....that just because you're a girl doesn't mean that you can't achieve what boys can. It's because of this that Glamour Magazine named her as one of their 'Women of the Year' just a couple of months ago.
Q.
Biggest accomplishment?
A.
I'm a two-times ASP world champion. I was 18 years old when I won my first title.
Q.
Coolest place you've ever been?
A.
Bali and Fiji.
Q.
What is your favorite music?
A.
My favourite music is Colbie Calliat.
Q.
Living person you most admire and why?
A.
My boyfriend Luke, because of his huge heart and his selfless ways.
Q.
Never leave home without?
A.
My 360fly!
Q.
Favorite book?
A.
"Snow Flower And The Secret Fan".
Q.
Favorite App?
A.
Nike Training App.
Q.
What inspires you to create a new trick?
A.
Overcoming challenges and setting new heights.
Q.
Who inspires you?
A.
My peers.
Q.
Best advice ever you been given (and followed)?
A.
"Never give up".
2014
Current #1 Ranked ASP Surfer
First Place – ASP Margaret River Pro
First Place – ASP Rip Curl Pro Bell’s Beach
2013
#1 ASP World Ranking
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