Groms Fest Matanzas: Between the Mist and a New Wave of Learning

Kevin Oyarzun Instructor de Surf en Valpo Surf Project

Arriving in Matanzas is always something special. The scent of pine mixed with the ocean breeze wakes you up instantly. Last weekend, VSP took part in its first surf competition as the grom team headed to the legendary left-hand wave of Matanzas. Between the characteristic wind and the power of the Pacific, we experienced a day that will remain etched in VSP’s memory.

There is no greater pride for a coach than seeing their students grow. But when that growth happens on the very same wave as you, competing side by side, surfing stops being just a sport and instead becomes pure connection.

Before paddling out, the message to the boys was clear: awareness and patience. Matanzas is a demanding playing field; the currents can wear you down before the good set even arrives. Watching the VSP groms — Joshua, Iñigo, and Miguel — warming up, focused on the timing of the sets and supporting one another, confirmed to me that every small step is a huge leap forward in experience for our team.

“A big part of learning comes from experiencing the competition heat firsthand and understanding the dynamics of competing, but an equally important part comes from sharing waves as a community and growing by learning from other surfers.”

A Special Moment: “Father & Son” Division

This year, the championship had a different feeling to it. I had the honor of paddling out not only as a coach, but also as a teammate in the “Father & Son” division.

Competing alongside Miguel was an incredibly rewarding experience. Once we’re in the water together, we’re simply two surfers searching for the same section. Watching him paddle into a wave with determination, execute the quick pop-up we practiced so many times during the week, and come out of the whitewater with a smile on his face — that’s worth more than any score.

What I’ll take away most from this championship isn’t just the result, but the time shared on the beach with the rest of the groms and seeing how the level of surfing in Chile continues to rise. Matanzas welcomed us with new friends, and even though the current leaves your arms completely wrecked, it’s a demanding wave that pushes you to go beyond your limits.

Groms Fest

Groms Fest promotes a genuine connection with the ocean while strengthening beach culture through a sporting, family-oriented, and community-driven experience. Throughout the day, young local and visiting surfers took part in a Surf Jam — a format that values enjoyment, participation, and camaraderie over competition.

Joshua, one of our grom beneficiaries, received a special Spirit Award in recognition of his effort and perseverance in the water.

What did you think of the report?

Tell us in the comments: what message would you give these young rising stars of Chilean surfing? 🤙