Eric Ballenger
Born and raised in Florida, Eric’s life has been shaped by the ocean’s rhythm. From an early age, he was drawn to the water—not just as a playground, but as a proving ground. His journey began with competitive surfing in the Eastern Surfing Association (ESA), where he honed his skills riding the Atlantic swells. The ESA gave him his first taste of competition, camaraderie, and the thrill of chasing perfect waves. But Eric’s passion for the sea extended beyond the surf. At 13, he took to sailing with the same intensity, mastering the nimble Optimist dinghy before progressing to 420s. His talent and tenacity earned him a spot as foredeck on a Sears Cup-winning crew in 1986—a milestone that marked him as a rising star in the sailing world.
Over the years, Eric’s connection to the water deepened. He spent countless days singlehandedly cruising, exploring coastlines, and fishing in quiet solitude. Whether navigating open waters or casting lines in hidden coves, he found peace and purpose in the ocean’s embrace. And whenever the swell was up, he was back on his board, chasing the same thrill that first hooked him as a kid. Eric’s life as a waterman is more than a résumé of accomplishments—it’s a testament to his enduring love for the sea. From competitive surfing to championship sailing, from solo voyages to spontaneous surf sessions, he’s lived a life defined by salt, wind, and waves.