Keala Kennelly – World Class Surfer [VIDEO]

Inspired by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Bangor's Women's Build Week, I'm saluting women who excel this week. Today, it's Keala Kennelly, who is one of the most celebrated surfers in the world!

During Friday night's Billabong XXL Big Wave Awards in Anaheim, California, 35-year-old Kennelly was nominated as one of the best of the year. Her nominated tube-ride was Teahupoo, Tahiti, one of the most feared wave-locations on Earth. Most surfers won't go near it. But  this petite bleached blonde mastered it! She didn't win the Billabong award, but she is fast becoming one of the most respected female surfers in the country.

I grew up watching surfing on TV with my Dad and marveled at how those guys could keep their balance. And back then, it was all men who competed. I also live with a former New Jersey surfer, so I have a fascination with the sport.

All this week, I'm going to post about women who are excelling in fields previously only populated by men. It's in honor of Women's Build week with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Bangor, that encourages women to get involved in construction. Join us Saturday for some work on a Habitat House in Bangor that's being rehabbed!