After wrapping an historic event up in Canada, the O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series rolled down the coast to Santa Cruz this week, and with a huge swell expected to arrive this weekend the CWC stands a great chance of living up to its billing. But the fervent local fans of Santa Cruz were dealt an early blow on Tuesday when defending champion Nat Young, last year's defending champion and heir to the Santa Cruz throne, lost in a close one yesterday along with Noi Kaulukukui, another Santa Cruz standout.

In early high-tide conditions, Young was defeated in the waning moments of the heat by Granger Larsen and Nathaniel Curren. After going on a serious tear last year, this is the latest in a string of early round knockouts that have pulled Young back to earth. Last month he was knocked out of the Oakley Pro Junior Global Challenge in Bali Young. It's a string the 18-year-old seems to be keeping taking in stride. On his Facebook page, he posted a humorous little status update summing up his frustration. "Just lost first heat...Stoked."

Things will start heating up as the top seeds get underway. The O'Neill Cold Water Classic has been upgraded to a 6-Star Prime this year, which means it's a mandatory stop for anyone hoping to qualify for the world tour. It's a great place to get a glimpse of what the future of surfing looks like. Stay tuned for much more.