Hawaii's Kai Martin looked headed for a dominant win in the final heat of the USA Surfing National championships at Lower Trestles last month.
His heat totals of 9.07 and 8.0 had him ready to celebrate, but first he had to wait for the scores from the last wave of Lucas Owston, who ripped his way down the coast line as the horn sounded.
Owston needed an 8.08 to take the title but came up just short with a 7.33.
Martin was then able to celebrate his second national title and first USA surfing national win.
" Winning the national was a big goal of mine and means a lot to me to win it."
His previous title was the under 12 division back in 2017.
Matin sailed through the first two rounds but slipped slightly in round three when he finished second to fellow Hawaii surfer Ryland Beavers. But in the last two rounds, put up scores of 8, 8.3, and 9.07 to insure the win.
"I was really happy with my decision making this week," Martin said. "Through out the event I made good choices (on waves) and I think that was one of the main reasons I won"