BY CODY TORRES

Surfing? Who surfs? Kaelyn Gonzales-Konukoloku does. Kaelyn is a happy charismatic person who currently attends WCHS as a freshmen.    

Konukoloku has been surfing since she was in seventh grade. She first learned to surf on a 6’7” shortboard when she was 12 years old. Kaelyn first surfed at Newport Beach with the help of her surf instructor.

“My first time going out was difficult. It takes a lot of energy and concentration. At first, it was really hard to catch a wave but after a couple tries, I did it,” Konukoloku said.

Although it was difficult, she still enjoys surfing. Konukoloku has now advanced from a 6’7” to a 6’1” surfboard. She has many enjoyable memories but with that, comes the downsides. The surfer has almost stepped on multiple stingrays, gotten stuck in rip currents, hit with boards, and been choked by her surfboard leash.

“I remember a huge wave crashing me down and my leash was wrapped around my neck,” she said.

The Lady Bulldog also participated in swim but also wants to focus more on school. She wants to focus on high school to graduate and attend Hawaii Pacific University.

“Kaelyn is a very sweet and kind person. She is always very positive and would definitely change your view on things,” freshman Serah Myers said.