Ben Low started bodyboarding at age 10 simply for fun, but over time, his passion for the sport grew.
“I started taking it more seriously around 13,” he says. “I want to get better and do contests.”
Low frequently bodyboards at Makaha Beach, drawn by the quality of the waves. Before entering the water, he follows a specific routine: he checks the surf report, waxes his board, secures his fins, and stretches to prevent injury. Despite the repetitive nature of the sport, his motivation remains simple.
“It’s really fun. I love riding the waves, and I make a lot of friends,” he says.
Low’s father encourages and teaches him how to read the ocean. Additionally, Low picks up new tricks by watching and learning from older surfers in the lineup. One of his most vivid memories is catching a massive wave at age 15.
“I was scared but excited,” he recalls. “I rode the big wave all the way to the shore.”
Riding big waves gives Low the sensation of gliding on water and leaves him with a sense of gratitude.
“It makes me thankful for the ocean,” he says. “I want to take care of the land.”
Bodyboarding serves as a way for Low to relax and maintain a connection to Hawaii. Even when the surf is small, he finds joy in just being in the water. He remains determined to master new maneuvers, with every successful ride boosting his confidence. After countless hours of practice, he finally lands a difficult move he has been practicing.
“I was so stoked when I landed that PHAT invert,” he says, feeling a rush of pride and achievement.
Low credits the sport with bringing him closer to those he loves.
“My friends understand me, and my family is proud,” he says.
The journey is not without its obstacles. Poor wave conditions or physical injuries occasionally make progress difficult, and balancing schoolwork with time in the water is a constant challenge for Low. However, he continues to persevere. Looking ahead, he hopes to enter the competitive circuit and eventually reach the professional level.
“I want to keep going and try to be a pro,” he says. “If I don’t, I will still love riding waves.”
