"Natxo Gonzalez falling out of the sky at Pe'ahi in 2016. Photo: WSL/Richard Hallman"   Natxo Gonzalez Paddles Historic Barrel at Nazare Challenge The Nazare Challenge went down in near-flawless conditions last week, with 15-20+ waves and light offshore winds. Spanish charger and surf explorer Natxo Gonzalez was one of the standout performers, making the final and ending up in third place (which also positions him well for the world title race, since there are only three events each year). And while Grant “Twiggy” Baker ended up winning the event, Natxo stole the day with what most agree is the best wave ever ridden at Nazare, and one of the most impressive big-wave barrels ever paddles. On a solid 18-foot double up, Natxo spun under the lip and backdoored a throaty lefthand tube that chandeliered twice before ejecting him out into the channel. Barrels are rare at Nazare, and this one was a 10 before he even came out, but the fact that Natxo made the tube means it will likely be in contention for ride of the year at the Big Wave Awards. We had a chat with Natxo a few days after his monumental ride, to get his...