March 9, 1988 // Kuta, Bali
Synopsis: Garut is the latest in a long line of mind-blowing Indonesian surfers. A third-place finish overall on the ISC—Indonesia’s domestic pro tour—was the high point of his competitive season, while surfing for the cameras that snap unendingly in Indo kept him on the exposure radar.
Variables: Indonesia is a tough place to leave, and many local surfers have been content to stay home and wait for the world to come to them.
Forecast: Garut lists his future ambitions in this order: “To be No. 1 in my country and to go on the WCT.” Last year, he came close to achieving the former, and he certainly has the talent to achieve the latter. He’ll build toward both in 2009, while staying visible via media exposure and starring in a new flick from Rip Curl Indonesia, Something From Nothing, which highlights the country’s best.