GoPro WLC China with Moniz

Kelia Moniz is a two-time ASP World Longboard Champion after winning the ASP World Longboard Championships in China the past two years. When you combine that with her runner-up finish at the inaugural event in 2011, it's fair she knows Riyue Bay better than anyone. The young Hawaiian goofy-footer, who combines power carves with elegant nose rides, shared her thoughts on the upcoming GoPro World Longboard Championship, China presented by Wanning.

Kelia, on fire, on the nose. WSL / Will Hayden- Smith

ASP: What's it like surfing in China?
Kelia Moniz: I didn't really know what to expect the first year going to China. It wasn't on my destination radar, but it definitely exceeded my expectations. Although there's not much there, I think that's what I appreciated most about it. The culture is so raw and the people so beautiful. When people ask me about surfing in china? I just say — 'Yeah, it's probably the last place you would think of going to for surf, but you heard right, the waves are so fun.'

ASP: What are you looking forward to the most?
KM: I'm really looking forward being able to hang with all the girls, surf a perfect left hand point break, hang in a baller resort for 10 days, and hopefully win the contest.

Kelia walking the plank with style. WSL / Will Hayden-Smith

What are you doing to prepare?
KM: I've been spending this month in Hawaii getting as much time in the water as I can when the waves are fun and playful. I don't really mess with the big scary stuff. I surf one contest a year. I don't even think I know how to get into comp mode. I also don't surf well under pressure, so when the contest does come around I just try to just think about having fun and surf like it's just another day to keep the jitters away.