Surfing Sensation Sebastian "Bash" Mendes

Each week, Agoura Hills Patch will seek suggestions from readers for individual kids, youth groups, teens, and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about these amazing children and teens and select one each week as the Patch Whiz Kid. 

This week's Whiz Kid is pint-sized surfing sensation Sebastian "Bash" Mendes. The 8-year-old has been surfing California and the North Shore of Oahu since he was 6. He was the youngest to compete in The Malibu Invitational—a fundraiser for special needs children, and has been interviewed live by Alley McKay for KTLA's three-part morning show. Mendes holds 15 first place trophies, with 20 for 2nd and 3rd. 

Whiz Kid: Sebastian "Bash" Mendes

Grade: 3rd grade

School:

Accomplishment: Sebastian is ranked Number 1 in the U9 Western Surf Association, which is one of the toughest and most competitive in the in world, and Number 5 in U10 division. He also surfs the Freedom Artists surf series. Mendes' multiple sponsors include Freedom Artists clothing company/management, WRV, Bodyglove, Matix, DVS, Famous Deck Pads, Val Surf, Grom Bomb, Olas Mexican Food and VLC (elite surf club on the North Shore of Oahu).

Key to awesomeness: Mendes, who is admittedly shy, "loves surfing, because every wave is different." He is anchored by an incredibly supportive, loving and proud family. The third-grader surfs, studies, and skates everyday. He has playdates on the weekends and has a very rigorous training schedule that he demands. He will be spending the summer in San Clemente training with the top surf professionals in the world.