First Frame grab …before the bounce.

On March 11, 2024, a late-season swell snuck into Half Moon Bay, California.

Daring big wave surfer Trevor Sven Carlson flew out from the North Shore of O’ahu to get a piece of the action.

While this had to be one of the tallest waves of the day, it also made for the worst wipeout as a bump in the wave face sent Trevor flying onto belly without penetrating the water.

He took a few massive waves on the heads in the aftermath, and luckily made it home safe to his family.

“After seeing a couple sets stand up on the outer ledge, I followed Peter Mel outside hoping to find a lucky chip shot.

Eventually he paddled back in saying something like, ‘We’re dreaming,’ so I joked that I’ll keep dreaming.

A few minutes later this approachable-looking teepee popped up and it felt right so I gave it a go…

It’s the ones you don’t make that fire you up so I’ll keep coming back.”

– Trevor Sven Carlson 3.11.2024

Cliff angle by: Elle Adams

Water angle by: Jack Sandler

Edit by: Shannon

Reporting The Mavericks Awards is a digital video performance contest in which big wave surfers and videographers submit their best surf content from Mavericks from the entire winter season.

Founded by Jeff Clark and Chris Cuvelier, our mission is to celebrate Mavericks and the brave men and women that surf it.

Our values of respect, inclusion, equality, safety and environmental stewardship guide all our decisions and how we operate the Mavericks Awards.