City on a Hill Press Photography Editor Sal Ingram takes us into the breakneck world of professional surfing in his photo essay of this year’s O’Neill Coldwater Classic.

Professional and amateur surfers compete in hopes of winning the title of champion and a grand prize of $40,000. Between October 26 and 30, spectators gathered around along the cliffs to watch the show, many accompanied with cameras or binoculars.

Steamer Lane, simply “The Lane” to many locals, is one of Santa Cruz’s most visited surf spots. And for this reason, it comes as no surprise that this will be where the world-renowned O’Neill Cold Water Classic and accompanying Oakley Pro Junior’s competition will kick off on Nov. 2.