I wasn’t expecting my life to shift on an ordinary Saturday evening — but that’s exactly what happened. I was sitting at home, settling into a quiet weekend, when a text came through asking if I could represent Team USA at the ISA World Masters Championships. It stopped me in my tracks. There are plenty of women in my age division who are stronger competitive surfers, women who’ve kept that fire burning consistently over the years. But somehow, I was on the list of people to call. And in that moment, with zero hesitation and a heart full of something between disbelief and excitement, I answered.
That text changed everything. Life really can pivot in an instant.
Coming Home After 20 Years
I hadn’t competed in over two decades. Twenty years is a long time to step away from the jersey — long enough for careers to shift, bodies to age, priorities to evolve. But sliding that jersey back on again felt less like returning to competition and more like coming home. All the muscle memory, the nerves, the joy — it was all still there.
What struck me even deeper was the community. Surfers in their 60s and 70s were still out there charging, still committed, still moving with the ocean like it was an extension of their own bodies. They were inspiring in the purest way — proof that surfing can be a lifelong relationship if you keep showing up.
And then there was Ben Bourgeois, dropping perfect and near-perfect heat totals throughout the event. If it wasn’t for an interference call in his final, Team USA would’ve been standing on the podium. Next time!
Sharing Waves With Legends
Competing alongside icons like Tom Curren felt surreal. Getting to reunite with my old surf buddy Siri Cota — and watching her absolutely rip her way into the final — was another full-circle moment. Alan Sarlo also made the final, putting on a masterclass of power surfing. Their performances, their drive, their longevity… it all lit something in me. It reminded me why I surf and why I want to keep surfing well into the decades ahead.
The Women’s 40+ Division: A Field of Powerhouses
The level in the Women’s 40+ division was no joke. The top scores tell the story on their own:
- Melanie Bartels (HAW) dominated with multiple excellent rides, including a 9.43, 9.23, and 9.13.
- Jacqueline Silva (BRA) wasn’t far behind with a 9.17, 7.83, and 7.60, putting on a clinic in consistency and flow.
- Patricia Rossi (TAH) and Serena Brooke (AUS) were also stacking powerful scores in the high 7s and 8s.
And right there among the names — my wave:
Heat 10 – Nicole Grodesky (USA) – 6.27.
It wasn’t one of the highest scores of the event, but that 6.27 meant something to me. It was tangible proof that after 20 years, I could still show up. Still compete. Still trust myself in a heat. Still let instinct take over and enjoy the ride.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Representing my country in a world championship wasn’t something I ever expected to do again, especially not at this stage of my life. But being part of Team USA, surrounded by legends, old friends, and athletes who continue to push their limits no matter their age — it was an experience I’ll carry forever.
More than anything, it inspired me to stay fit, stay curious, and stay connected to the ocean as I get older. Surfing has given me so much. Being able to step back into competition, even for a moment, reminded me of who I’ve always been.
Sometimes life hands you a surprise call. And if you’re lucky — and willing — you get to answer it.
