I swear there must be something in the water in Northern California. Every time I turn around there is another young ripper coming out of there. Nice to see that up and down the California coast the girls are making a name for themselves - just like back in my day.  Check out 9 year old Zoe , she may be small but as you can tell by these photos,  size doesn't determine height in your airs or how aggressively you attack coping for that matter.  Her style reminds me of one of the rad female skaters she looks up to - Julz Lynn.  I for one can't wait to see Zoe compete in person.

 Who's Rad?      Zoe Safanda

Age:    9

Home is:      San Rafael, CA

How Long Have You Been Skating:     4 years

Girls who skate that inspire YOU:   Alana Smith, Nora Vasconcellos, Mimi Knoop, Julz Lynn, Leticia Bufoni...the list is pretty long!

Favorite place you've ever skated:    Woodward West for Girls Week!

Favorite Trick:    Hmm...don’t think I have one favorite trick so much as I just like fast park and bowl skating. I'm working on a kickflip but it’s frustrating me right now.

Sponsors:     My mom and dad for now  (editors note:  I see that changing very fast for Zoe!)

Three Things You Don't Know About Me:

1. I like to draw comics - sometimes gory ones

2. I like watching Food TV

3. I'm afraid of bees

What's Next?

There’s another NorCal C.A.S.L season coming up. I finished 2nd overall in my age group last year but I’m moving up so I’ve got my work cut out for me. I’m also hoping to compete in a couple of the World Cup events this year.

Make sure you follow  @zoesafanda on Instagram on Facebook   and on YouTube