In brief
Henry Hurren, a dedicated surfer, proves that determination and enthusiasm abound, even in a city where surfable waves are few and far between.
On a blustery Sunday in February, Henry Hurren embarks on a surfing adventure off Tung Lung Chau, an uninhabited island in Hong Kong. Despite the long journey and the less-than-ideal conditions, Hurren, 32, embraces the challenge of riding waves that many would overlook. As he made the half-hour ferry ride from the main island, he observed a lively scene with families camping on the beach and restaurants bustling with activity.Once in the water, however, Hurren found himself completely alone, battling the quick, challenging waves. These waves, known as slabs, break over rocky surfaces and require considerable skill and timing. The thrill of the ride, albeit brief, captures Hurren's passion: “It’s like a really concentrated version of surfing,” he says, explaining how each ride, however fleeting, is precious.Despite Hong Kong's surf culture being centered around a few accessible beaches with inconsistent swells, local surfers like Hurren demonstrate a commitment to exploring the potential of the territory’s waters. With more than 250 islands in the South China Sea, there remain undiscovered spots for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Hurren, who also teaches surfing and chronicles his experiences on social media, embodies the spirit of turning the ordinary into something exhilarating, reaffirming that surfing is not just about locations but the joy of embracing the challenge.
