Kepa Acero's Journey Back to Morocco: A Surfing Adventure
After a remarkable fifteen-year hiatus, renowned Basque surfer Kepa Acero has made a nostalgic return to Morocco, a country that played a significant role in shaping his surfing journey. Acero's latest venture takes him back to Taghazout, a once-quiet fishing village now bustling with tourists and surf enthusiasts from around the globe. His aim is not merely to ride the waves but to reconnect with the spirit of solitude that characterized his early surfing days. This journey is beautifully depicted in a 45-minute film titled 'Kingdom of the Evening,' directed by Clint Davis, which chronicles Acero's quest for the untouched surf spots he once cherished.
Accompanied by his longtime friend and fellow surfer Yassine, affectionately known as Snoopy Style, Acero revisits the coastline where they first met in 2010. During that initial encounter, the two bonded over shared surfing experiences, delicious tajines, and countless miles traveled, despite the language barriers that separated them. Their paths diverged for years, but their reunion in Taghazout serves as a poignant reminder of their deep-rooted friendship and shared passion for surfing. Snoopy, now a father and a well-respected surf guide, embodies the essence of Taghazout, having established a life deeply connected to the ocean.
The Changing Landscape of Taghazout
Taghazout has transformed dramatically since Acero's last visit, evolving into a prominent international surfing destination complete with hotels, cafes, and numerous surf schools. Iconic surf spots like Anchor Point now attract surfers from every corner of the world, creating a bustling atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the serene solitude Acero once sought. Nevertheless, he remains dedicated to his original vision of endless roads leading southward, minimal crowds, and waves free from the throngs of tourists.
Joined by Moroccan filmmaker Ayoub Abouizza, Acero and his crew embark on an expedition along the coastline, facing a series of challenges from subpar wave conditions to equipment failures. Their pursuit of the perfect wave leads them to surf at the crowded Anchor Point, a scenario Acero had hoped to avoid. Yet, his determination pays off when a new swell arrives, bringing improved conditions and the opportunity to surf alongside renowned surfers like Victor Bernardo and Asher Pacey. Their adventure culminates with a final visit to Dracula, a local surf spot that promises excitement and challenge.
The journey ultimately highlights that while the Morocco of 2010 may be irretrievably altered, the essence of adventure and the joy of surfing transcends the search for empty waves. As Snoopy eloquently states in the film, "It’s not about performing tricks; it’s about savoring the moment and the beauty of life." This profound realization captures the essence of surfing as not just a sport, but a way of life that embraces community, connection, and the simple pleasure of riding the waves.
As reported by as.com.
