Melody DeCarlo

• Surfing: 37 years
• Occupation: Radiology Technologist

In her own words:
"I knew I was destined to surf from the time I picked up my first Surfer Magazine around 1966. It took a little longer to convince my parents that it was a good idea. There were never any other women in the water when I started surfing so my mother was absolutely against it. But I eventually wore my father down and got my first board. It weighed almost as much as I did but I was stoked."

"I surfed though so much of surfing's progression, from 30lb popouts to single fins, trifins, quads, and back. I still love riding different equipment. And I love to watch what the new generation is doing. Who would have ever dreamed that surfers would be flying over waves pulling off big airs! At the same time, I feel that it is important to remember the people who paved the way (wave) before us. That is what fueled my work with the East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame Museum. Our motto is "Preserving Surfing's History" and I am glad that we have the opportunity to share the past with the future generations."

"Surfing has been one of the biggest blessing in my life. It has carried me through the good times and especially the bad times. I love to take some of the young women to contests or go free surfing and watch them progress. The friendships I have made through surfing are priceless. My stoke seems to grow with each passing day and I can only hope that surfing brings you so much joy throughout your life."