August 15, 1989 // Kona, Hawaii
Synopsis: This Big Island kid grew up surfing with fellow Hot 100 peers Torrey Miester and Tonino Benson, but he’s spent the last few years traveling, freesurfing, and dividing his time competitively between the Pro Junior and WQS tours, where he’s had success.
Variables: Currently searching for a comprehensive sponsorship deal, Casey’s WQS and photo-fueled travels may be hamstrung by budgetary concerns in 2009.
Forecast: Casey’s plan is to selectively focus on large, six-star WQS events with the ultimate goal of eventual ASP World Tour qualification. He experienced his first WQS-level win last year at a two-star in California, so if results continue to translate into prize money and sponsorship dollars, great. If not, he’ll have to find another way to keep the dream alive.