Trevor Jackson touts positive impact of surfing at ‘A Great Day in the Stoke’

Trevor Jackson touts positive impact of surfing at 'A Great Day in the Stoke'
Actor and R&B artist Trevor Jackson at “A Great Day in the Stoke” in Huntington Beach, California. (Photo credit: Rashad Milligan for rolling out)

June 4’s “A Great Day in the Stoke” in Huntington Beach, California, included many special guests, including actor and R&B artist Trevor Jackson. An event intended to honor the legacy and culture of Black surfers around the country, Jackson participated in the morning’s surfing contest. After his first round, Jackson spoke with rolling out about his surfing history.


How does it feel to be out here at A Great Day in the Stoke participating in the surfing competition?


It feels amazing. It’s my first time competing, but I love seeing so many colorful people in the water. Something I rarely see when I’m surfing on my own.

It’s good to see all of us together celebrating because surfing has no color. Surfing is enlightenment. It’s baptism in a way. I’m glad we’re all sharing that experience together today.


When did you first get into surfing?

I first started when I was 11 years old when I was in Hawaii. Then, I didn’t surf for like 10 years after that. I started again like four or five years ago. Yeah, man, so I love it. I love it. It saved my life.

How did the first round go for you?

I don’t know. We’ll see what the score says, man. I was out there paddling for my life. My shoulders, I couldn’t breathe, I’m exhausted. And I’m about to go back out for sure. And surf to have fun.

You said surfing saved your life. How so?

It gave me a sense of oneness. Whenever I felt like I had too much stuff going on, just too busy, I was able to go out there and relax. I always say when I surf or I’m just in the ocean, it’s like being in a mirror — just look at yourself. And things kind of align and make more sense when you’re in the ocean.

Is it like a relaxation from the anxieties of being in the industry?

Yeah, for sure industry or just life. Life is hard enough as it is. I’m saying you go out there and become one with all these other things. You see a family, a dolphin, a pelican and it’s like, wow. [I’m] thankful.

How’s the transition from child star to this point in your life been?

The transition’s been good. I think surfing has helped for sure. It’s just doing what you love to do not really caring too much. If people aren’t a part of your process, or helping your process or supporting your process, then they shouldn’t have a hand in what you do.

What advice do you have for kids who look up to you?

Don’t be too hard on yourself … I think it’s good to take a second and just focus.

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