SANTA CRUZ — Santa Cruz had two big-wave surfers win titles at the 25th annual Big Wave Challenge Awards celebration at Lido Theater in Newport Beach on Saturday.

Alessandro “Alo” Slebir was named the 2024-25 Men’s Biggest Wave winner and earned a $7,500 prize for his viral ride at Mavericks, located off the coast of Half Moon Bay, on Dec. 23. And Wilem Banks was honored for the Biggest Paddle-In Wave of 2025 for his epic ride at Jaws in Hawaii on Dec. 22.

RELATED: Santa Cruz surfer’s epic ride at Mavericks was largest of the season, but fell short of record

Both surfers, along with local legend Peter Mel, the subject of the 5 Hour Energy One Shot Photo of the Year, shot by world renowned photographer Fred Pompermayer, will be celebrated at the West Peak Sparkling Spirits Celebration

See Full Page