Op-Ed: Pro surfer riding 78-foot wave officially in Guinness record book

5/12/2012 Five months to make it official, Guinness finally announces an American surfers new world record for riding the highest wave.

Big-wave surfer Garrett McNamara of Haleiwa, Oahu , made surfing history in November of 2011 for riding a 78-foot wave off the coast of Portugal. Guinness announcing its official just before McNamara's award of $15,000 (€11,573) at Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards in California last week. McNamara, began surfing at age 11 and went pro at 17, with a life mission to catch the biggest, best waves on the planet. No stranger to big waves McNamara in 2003, competed in 70-foot surf at Jaws taking home the $70,000 purse with Brazilian teammate Rodrigo Resende. The event to this date is still the largest purse ever won in any surfing event. Early 2011, McNamara signed on as a team rider and global ambassador to Wave Jet, which has allowed him to continue to do what he loves, ride waves. McNamara who has picked up stand up paddle boarding gives his thoughts on the sport. McNamara added to his list of sponsors by signing with Bodyglove, and looks ahead to the next competition Jun 3 - 15, 2012 in Tavarua/Namotu, Fiji at the "Volcom Fiji Pro" prize money up for grabs $425,000. With several competitions left, McNamara will more than likely be picking up a few more checks that will be up for grabs. Gaining more confidence in his ability to win after riding one of the worlds tallest waves that finally is officially recognized. Garret McNamera has made history, and will no doubt be known as the man who rode the highest wave.