Venao, Panama — USA Surfing today announced that San Juan Capistrano’s Kevin Skvarna has made history, winning the United States’ first-ever gold medal in men’s longboard at the PASA Games.

Skvarna delivered a standout performance throughout the event, combining style, power, and innovation to take control of each heat and secure the top spot on the podium. With the victory, he earns qualification for the 2027 Pan American Games, the second-largest multi-sport event in the world behind the Olympic Games.

In his post-heat interview Skvarna shared his pride in representing the U.S. in the PASA Games, hoping it can be a signal of future growth in U.S. representation.

“Kevin’s performance was exceptional from start to finish,” said head coach Ryan Simmons. “He represents the best of American surfing—progressive, composed under pressure, and deeply committed to his team. This is a milestone moment for USA Surfing and for longboard surfing in the United States.”

The result highlights the continued growth and strength of USA Surfing’s international program across multiple disciplines.

The U.S. team also delivered strong podium finishes in both longboard and bodyboard competition:
• Avalon Gall earned bronze in women’s longboard
• Dave Hubbard, Jessica Becker, and Karla Costa each earned bronze in bodyboard, competing as part of a U.S. squad coached by bodyboarding legend Mike Stewart

The 2026 PASA Games marked the largest team the United States has ever sent to the event, signaling a new era of depth and development across USA Surfing’s pipeline.

“This team showed not only high performance, but incredible camaraderie and energy throughout the competition,” said USA Surfing CEO Becky Fleischauer. “It’s a strong start to what promises to be an important year of international competition as we build toward LA28, the Pan American Games and beyond.”

Skvarna’s gold medal and qualification for the 2027 Pan American Games underscore USA Surfing’s commitment to preparing athletes for success on the world stage and continuing to elevate the sport across all disciplines.

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