In surfing news… Santa Cruz’s John Mel is celebrating his first win on the world surf league’s qualifying series.
20-year-old Mel, ranked number 140, beat Jackson Butler, ranked 235 in Puerto Escondido Mexico yesterday. Mel’s previous best finish this season was third at the vans surf open in Acapulco in July. He also placed fifth at the Florida pro in January.
His father Peter, is a commentator for the W-S -L and a former big wave world tour champion
