Carissa Moore’s Early Beginnings: Building the Path to Greatness
Carissa Moore grew up on the sun-kissed shores of Oahu, Hawaii, where the ocean was not just a playground but a way of life. From the age of five, she was drawn to the waves, her small frame balancing on a surfboard with a determination that belied her years. Her Hawaiian heritage, steeped in the spirit of aloha – love, respect, and community – shaped her worldview and her approach to life. “In our Hawaiian community, there’s this idea of aloha spirit, showing love and being respectful of other people,” she reflects. “We’re very open and warm, and that’s impacted the way that I live my life“.
Moore’s family played a pivotal role in nurturing her passion. Her father, Chris Moore, was not only her coach but also her biggest supporter, encouraging her to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. “I was inspired by my dad to be open about my mental health,” she recalls. “He told me, ‘Just own your story. Then no one can write it for you'”. This early lesson in self-acceptance would later become a cornerstone of her resilience.
Overcoming Adversity: Carissa Moore’s Battle with Mental Health
Despite her meteoric rise in the surfing world – five world championships and an Olympic gold medal – Moore’s journey was far from smooth. After winning her third world title, she found herself in a three-year slump. “I wasn’t motivated. I was lacking passion and purpose,” she admits. “It was the first time that surfing wasn’t joyful. I was doing it, not for myself, but for everyone else”.
This period of emotional turmoil coincided with what should have been one of the happiest times of her life – her marriage to Luke Untermann. Instead, she felt adrift, grappling with depression and anxiety. “I hit rock bottom,” she says. “Surfing wasn’t fun, and it was bleeding into my personal life”.
Moore’s decision to step away from competitive surfing in 2024 was a bold move, one that required immense courage. “I was exhausted. Competing at the top level is very intense,” she explains. “I needed time to shift focus and follow the joy, follow my heart”.
Carissa Moore’s Pivotal Moments: From Challenge to Victory
Moore’s journey back to joy began with a return to simplicity. She founded the Moore Aloha Foundation, a charitable organization aimed at empowering women and sharing her love of surfing with the next generation. “Getting to see people psyched about surfing for the first time helped me remember why I fell in love with it in the first place,” she says.
Her openness about her struggles has resonated deeply with fans and fellow athletes alike. By sharing her story, Moore has become a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges. “I think there’s something beautiful in vulnerability and sharing our own stories,” she reflects. “When we know that we’re not alone, the possibilities are endless”.
Carissa Moore’s Legacy: Inspiring Change Through Vulnerability
Today, Moore’s legacy extends far beyond her athletic achievements. Through her foundation and her candid discussions about mental health, she is inspiring a new generation to prioritize well-being and embrace their authentic selves. “I want to empower other girls and women to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin,” she says.
Her story is a testament to the power of resilience – not just physical, but mental and emotional. By sharing her struggles, Moore has shown that even the most successful individuals face challenges, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
As she prepares for the next chapter of her life, Moore remains a symbol of hope and perseverance. Her journey reminds us all that true greatness lies not in avoiding adversity, but in facing it head-on, with courage, vulnerability, and an unwavering commitment to self-discovery.
Carissa Moore’s story is just one of many inspiring tales within the world of surfing. Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack at the age of 13, has not only returned to the waves but continues to compete at the highest level, proving that courage and determination can overcome even the most daunting fears. Similarly, Ben Neumann, a blind surfer, has defied all odds by competing in surfing competitions, showcasing the power of resilience and the human spirit. These stories, like Moore’s, remind us that the ocean is not just a place of challenge but also a source of healing, strength, and endless possibility.
Call to Action: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that you are not alone. Reach out for support, whether through friends, family, or professional resources. Let Carissa Moore’s story inspire you to prioritize your well-being and embrace your own journey with courage and grace.
Photo by: By CeeX – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=118160957
