Malibu Teen Vies for Spot in Coveted Surf Competition

By Peter Smelser

Malibu teen Thelen McKinna-Worrell, 16, is among a handful of surfing hopefuls from across the globe trying to qualify for the Quiksilver King of the Groms competition.

The international competition is a top stage for surfers under the age of 16. 
McKinna-Worrell has posted a short video online at www.quiksilverlive.com and needs votes from the public in order to advance to the next stage of the competition.

The videos of the top vote-getters in each region will be submitted to a panel of professional surfers, including Kelly Slater, Dane Reynolds and Mark Beaty, who will choose three winners from North America. 

Currently, Thelen is third in voting in North America.

Altogether, 18 surfers will take part in the King of the Groms, which will take place during the Quiksilver Pro France in late-September.

The Malibu teen is a Sustainable Surf Ambassador, bringing awareness to other surfers the toxins used in the surfing industry.

To vote in the Quiksilver King of Groms competition click here.