“Being a girl does not make me feel like it is harder to excel.” – Caity
Around the age of 10, Oceanside’s Caitlin Simmers caught the attention of local surfers and the sports media. Big time. Although small in stature, she powered through the waves and nailed maneuvers that didn’t seem possible for such a youngster. Confident in her athletic ability, she excels in above-the-lip maneuvers, aerial flips, spins, and alley-oops. Those moves score big points in competitions.
A finalist in “Sports Illustrated magazine’s 2018’s “SportsKid of the Year,” Caity was one of five dedicated athletes who were recognized for the accomplishments and poise they exhibit even when they’re not competing. She was the first surfer to make Sports Illustrated’s list in its 11-year history.
Surfing has opened doors to travel and other opportunities for Caity. She has been able to experience a variety of cultures and surf the waters of Central America, Japan, and Indonesia. In 2020 Caity was featured as CSM’s extraordinary young surfer in the Making Waves exhibit.
photo credit: Red Bull
After her stunning victory at the Pipeline Pro Contest in February, 18-year-old Caity earned a spot on the USA Olympic Surf Team, whose other members included Carissa Moore, Caroline Marks (who ultimately captured the women’s gold medal), Griffin Colapinto and John John Florence. The competition was held at the iconic Teahupo’o break in Tahiti.
And although Caity didn’t medal in her first Olympics, she can never be counted out. She’s a young woman who likes to keep busy and calls her own shots. As luck would have it, she recently discovered the challenges of film editing. Her next goal: “Make a generation-defining surf film that inspires people to go surf.” You go, girl!
“Kelly Slater was born to surf. So was Caity Simmers.” – a quote from Joey Buran, winner of the 1984 Pipeline Masters and winningest surf coach in US history.
Caity caught his attention when she was just 12, and he offered to be her coach. “I was on the beach and I noticed this little girl – she looked 9 at the time – surfing with great power and focus and skill for her size. Like a gymnast, she showed cat-like moves, always landing on her feet and knowing where she was in the wave. She has flawless technique, plus power, and always has perfect position.”
“It is a joy to watch her perform, and if you are a surf photographer, it is impossible to take a bad shot of her surfing – she’s that good.” – Robert Wald, publisher of Ocean magazine
You can follow Caity on IG@caitysimmers
