June 22, 1989 // Santa Barbara, California
Synopsis: A former NSSA National champ and a standout for the USA Surf Team, Cory made a full-time leap to the Pro Junior level in 2008, and the upgrade suited him—he finished the season in first overall on the North American Junior circuit.
Variables: Despite qualifying for the Worlds as the No. 1 North American seed, and nearly medaling at two ISA World Games in ’06 and ’07, Cory is still looking for a big international result.
Forecast: He’s proven he can beat everyone at home, and almost everyone abroad. With one of the best backhands in the business, and a natural ability to identify weaknesses in his opponents, he’ll be a competitive threat as he continues to work through the Junior and WQS ranks. Hopefully he’ll find the results he needs sooner rather than later, while free-surf wise, he’ll continue to shine in front of the camera.