Today was day one of the 2009 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in Salinas, Ecuador. To kick-start the event, the town held a ceremonial parade in the warm Ecuadorian afternoon.

Around thirty teams from all around the globe came decked out in colorful garb waiving their national flags down the main street here in Salinas. South Africa took the cake for the best-dressed award wearing green blazers, green ties, white button ups, and khaki dress pants. I'm sure they were feeling the heat of the day as I was dripping sweat just standing in my t-shirt and shorts. When asked about the attire, one South African parent explained that this outfit is worn on occasion during formal as well as casual surfing events back home.

In the midst of all the countries represented today was the Moroccan national team. Unlike most teams participating in the event, Morocco is comprised of two young surfers. Nicaragua's national team on the other hand has just one grommet representing his country. I'm psyched for these two teams and will for sure be rooting for these guys to advance.

Overall, the ceremony was a blast and a great icebreaker for the teams to celebrate together before they put their game faces on and attack La FAE's left point break. Heats for the event start bright and early tomorrow morning at eight.

I'm excited to see what's in store. It's gonna be an interesting week of surf!

Well, that's about it for now. Until next time!

-JimJims