Makka Pro 2012 | Profiles

We recently gave you a look at our JTB sponsored trip to Jamaica for the Makka Pro surf competition and wanted to spotlight the competitors, judges, and people who are working towards putting Jamaica on the map as a sought after surf destination. People like Billy & Maggie Wilmot, the President and Secretary of the Jamaica Surfing Association who facilitated our trip and graciously welcomed us into their home. We spoke with them and others about how they started surfing and more. Hit the jump to meet some of the individuals from the Makka Pro.

Billy Wilmot
President – Jamaica Surfing Association
Bull Bay, Jamaica

When did you first start surfing?

I started surfing in 1974 but was body boarding years before that. I was first exposed to it by Gigdet and the Beach Boys being so popular and it was something that appealed to me.

What’s special about surfing in Jamaica?

Surfing in Jamaica is special because the beaches are pristine and untouched. There is good surf everyday. Surfing in Jamaica is unique because not many people do it but it’s growing and surfing together brings us together. Its all about unity.

Maggie Wilmot
Secretary – Jamaica Surfing Association
Bull Bay, Jamaica

How did you get involved with surfing?

I married a surfer.

You handle a lot of the behind the scenes management and motherly role for Makka Pro, how do you handle it all?

Well, I’m a social worker by trade so helping people is something that was always important to me. This is just another way to help people and I love the unity Jamaican surfing brings to the community.

Jesse Hielman – 24
Surfer (Winner of Makka Pro 2012)
Daytona, Florida

When did you start surfing?

I’ve been surfing for about 13 years. Lots of people surf where I am from and me and my brother started surfing together when we were young.

How was surfing in Jamaica, did you enjoy yourself?

This was my first time competing in the Makka Pro and first time visiting Jamaica. It was amazing! The water is so warm and blue and I could definitely get used to it here.

Jensen Callaway- 23
Surfer
Jupitter, Florida

When did you start surfing?

I started surfing when I was six years old. All my friends surfed and we’re still at it.

As the defending champ of  the Makka Pro what the best thing about surfing in Jamaica?

The waves here are really fun to surf  and the people  make you feel like you’re family. I love it here.

Icah Wilmot – 25
Surfer
Bully Bay, Jamaica

How do yo approach surfing in a competition?

I just take it one wave at a time and try to surf as best as I can every time. I try not to compare myself to others and have a good time.

As a Jamaican surfer what message would you like to share about surfing on your island?

You will fall in love with surfing here because there are waves all year. Just being in Jamaica is great but once you go to Jamaica to surf you will be hooked and have to come back.

Sergio Martins – 39
Surfer
Venezuela

You’re the veteran in the competition, how did you get into surfing?

When I was 11 my older brother was a surfing champion and board shaper so he taught me all that he knew.

This is your first time surfing in Jamaica, how is it so far?

I like it a lot and because its very similar to surfing on Venezuela so I feel right at home.

Icah Wilmot -15
Surfer
Bull Bay, Jamaica

What’s the best thing about surfing?

Hanging ou with your friends and joking around in the water and just talking is the most fun. Its good vibes.

Chelsea Tauch – 16
Surfer ( Female Winner of Makka Pro 2012)
Barbados

You compete in the mens as well as the women’s. What’s it like surfing with the boys?

Its a challenge that I like. It pushes me to surf harder which can go amazing or horrible.