HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — Long Beach native Nolan Rapoza reveled in his first pro surfing victory on the WSL Qualifying Series Tour in Arica, Chile. Amidst the sea foam and champagne spray, the emotions got the best of him.  

"I'd say it's been tough at home because I guess I've felt insecure with myself, with everything. Not getting the results I want on the QS," Rapoza said.

Now the 21-year-old is back on his home sands in Huntington Beach, and he feels like himself again. 

"It made me realize that I am where I'm supposed to be at," said the new champion.

It may be his first, but this win is big. Nolan has been launched into the top 20 on the Qualifying Series. If he can finish top 10 by the end of the season, he's got a shot at making the World Champions Tour.  

With his world competition and travels on pause, you'll likely see the Long Beach native shredding at his favorite breaks in Newport, Huntington, and Seal Beach.