Lance’s Right (aka Hollow Trees) in the Mentawais is one of the most beautiful right-hand barrels out there. It’s a dream spot for many in the surfing world. But like any barreling wave, it can get downright scary. In May of last year, Red Bull took a group of its athletes to LR and they caught what some are calling the “Biggest and Best,” conditions any group has ever seen. Now, we know that’s probably hyperbole but have a look for yourself.
One of our favorites, Spencer Whiting, was on hand to film and edit. David Biner bravely collected water shots as well. The wave was so big, in fact, that it created some scary moments: “Izzi Gomez, after getting closed out on and pounded, had her leash snagged on the reef (which) kept her pinned below,” wrote Biner on his YouTube page, Indo Eye, where the video above is hosted, “scaring the shit out of her. It was only when the leash plug on her board ripped completely out that she was able to make it to surface for breath.”
Another surfer was apparently coughing up blood after a hold down. But Maya Gabeira stole the show with a backhand barrel, which you can see at the 4:58 mark. All in all, ridiculous conditions and size for one of the most famous waves in the Ments.
