25 June 2013, Keramas- Bali : 20 year old Putra “Pulu” Hermawan’s dream came true today when he paddled out with 11 time world champion Kelly Slater in pumping 6-8 foot Keramas, before he even caught his first wave. Losing to Kelly isn’t like losing to just anyone, its more like an honor just to be out in the water with him. The scores didn’t even matter.
From the runner up spot in the Oakley Pro Bali Trials last week, Pulu was called up to replace an injured Travis Logie and proceeded to best Brett Simpson and move on to Round 3, where he was matched up against non other than Slater.
And though the ocean went uncharacteristically quiet for most of their heat and neither surfer got epic waves, Pulu was still all smiles back on the beach and had the crowd cheering for him all the way.
An interview with Pulu went like this:
Tell us about your first wave: “I was too deep on that first wave, but I knew I had to go. I’m glad it was big out there, but I just wish there would have been more waves.”
Did you talk to Kelly in the lineup? “Yes, I told him “good luck” at the start.”
After the heat was over what did he say to you? “You’re a great surfer, you did good.”
How do you feel right now? I’m proud and happy. “This is my dream come true, to surf in a WCT. And against Kelly, it was an amazing experience.”
Did you look at the beach to see where your friends were? “Yes, it was so great to see my friends on the beach supporting me.”
What’s next: “Now I’m going to keep training, working hard for my next competition.”
Shout out? “Thanks everyone for supporting me, and thanks for this chance to make my dream come true.”
Good on ya Pulu…and keep up the great effort.
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