Alma Vences, Instructor
Age: 25
Years Surfing: 6
Travels: Hualtuco , Puerto Vallarta, and Costa Rica
Alma was born in Mexico City and moved to Carpinteria at the age of 6 where she fell in love with the community, mountains, and ocean. She quickly assimilated into the American culture and is proud to be a duel-citizen.
She took a few private lessons with a Surf Happens Senior Instructor (Mike Billgren) at the age of 19 and picked it up quickly using the methodology and techniques. She has since surfed every day she can possibly surf and is a regular fixture out at Rincon. If you see two Jack Russells on the beach, one with 3 legs – she is out in the water. The goofy-foot has a eye-pleasing, graceful style that can be spotted from a distance. She doesn’t compete, unless there is a wave coming her way. She has often been accused of being the nicest person alive – and you will know when she throws you a bunch of compliments when you get a good wave in the water. She sometimes uses her niceness to get more waves – don’t be fooled!!!! Alma has worked with Surf Happens as deputy beach marshal for the Rincon Classic from 2007-2010, and has helped with special events over the last 3 years.