Name? Joel Benavente aka "Swell" @joelswell
Where are you from? Guam, land of extremely shallow reefs.
A word to the wise though, we are heavily localized. Guam has been
occupied by outsiders for over 400 years, so this is the one thing as locals
that is still ours and is defended heavily, so unless with a local, please be cautious.
Respect the locals.
What got me into the sport? As a Senior in high school I
would sometimes follow my friends to go surfing, but it wasn't until I started
surfing with my friend, Kooks, that things really took off. By that time most of
my friends had been surfing for years prior to me starting so in a short amount
of time I had to play catch up quick. So that meant charging waves was a must for me.
How long have you been wave riding? I started when I was
about 19, so all together I'd say about 16 years.
Amateur or Professional (prone, dropknee, surfing,
bodysurfing etc.)? Neither. I've never placed in any contest really, so I have
no highlights aside from my most memorable rides. If I were to claim anything
it would probably be as an Underground wave rider.
What's your go-to board size and shape in any condition?
I've always been a big fan of Spencer Skipper, so his general template has been my go
to specs in since I've started. A 42" polypro, 40/60 on the rails with channels.
Favorite breaks? Too sensitive to name, but as far as
traveling goes I'd have to say Waimea, Ehukai, Sandy’s, and Padang. I love a good shore break. That
is one thing we lack here on Guam.
Any words of advice for up and coming wave riders? Try to
always push yourself, but at the same time know your limits. It’s
always surprising to know your true potential. Have fun and enjoy the company
of people that are positive in your life. Positivity feeds positivity. Also
respecting one another is very important part in a world we all share with each
other, but most importantly caring and loving those also love and care for
you. One love.
Shout outs/sponsors? Thank you always to God, my family and
friends that are always there for me and
the local businesses here that have helped me out in one way or
another. Fokai @thefokaieffect, Lotus Surf Shop @lotussurf, Opake @opake_guam.