Rising Grom Asia Braithwaite

There are those young athletes that get into sport who possess natural talent, even the X-factor, yet as the road is usually a far-too-easy passage, they either take it for granted or don’t push beyond their capabilities.

Then there are those that possess the heart, drive and determination to succeed, and they usually end up very successful in their chosen sports. Then, every so often, there comes a talent that manages to combine that whole list of qualities and would crawl over broken glass in search of opportunities. From this champions are born. Meet 13-year-old Asia Braithwaite of Campion College in Gisborne, our latest ‘Grommette’ on the rise!

When did surfing first come into your life?

Well, ever since I was born I was at the beach and travelling with Dad to surf destinations. I don’t remember exactly when my first time surfing was, but there are photos and I was 4 or 5 surfing in Bali. But I really only started getting full on into surfing about a year ago. I was over surfing and my dad kept on at me, and kept telling me I had potential to be a good surfer, and to trust him, that if I got through the tough period I’d come out the other side and love it! And I do.

So tell us a bit about your family make up and the life you lead?