Meet Alexander: The passionate surfer

In this edition of #MeetAZoomer, we delve into the world of Alexander, a dedicated colleague who incorporates his passion for surfing into every facet of his life. From managing client projects to riding waves on snowy shores and sunny tropical beaches, Alexander's story reflects his love of the Ocean and deep connection to nature, travel and community.

Discovering the Ocean's call

Alexander's journey into surfing began unconventionally for a Swede. He was drawn first to snowboarding in the winter months. But around 12 years old, his perspective changed when he stumbled upon a surfing show on TV after school. Watching those surfers inspired a dream in him—a desire to catch waves and feel the rhythm of the Ocean. 'I remember feeling like I wanted to do that,' Alexander recalls. His fascination with surfing paved the way for an adventurous journey around the globe.

His first true experience with surfing occurred during a high school sailing trip from Spain to Morocco. In Morocco, he met a local surfer who invited him to ride the waves — an eye-opening experience that strengthened his passion for the sport. Since then, he has found surfing opportunities in the United States, Central America, Africa, Australia, and Indonesia, often prioritising his educational or professional pursuits around surfing destinations.

The endless search for the perfect wave

For Alexander, surfing is more than a hobby; it's a lifelong quest. He shares that the ultimate goal in surfing is to catch that 'perfect wave,' a fleeting experience that demands patience and dedication.

You can sit in the water for hours and only catch a few waves.

Yet every session brings the hope of that ideal wave. The pursuit's thrill, the Ocean's beauty, and the camaraderie among surfers keep him coming back.

Finding community and inspiration worldwide

One of the things Alexander loves most about surfing is the sense of community he finds in each new place he visits. From local surfers who show him the best spots in Sri Lanka to building connections in San Sebastian, he values the relationships he forms in the water. For Alexander, surfing is as much about the people and cultures as it is about the waves, providing a shared experience that brings together individuals from all walks of life.

Surviving and thriving in the wild

Among his most unforgettable surfing memories are awe-inspiring and intimidating moments. A close encounter with bull sharks in Florida left him cautious but grateful. Another cherished memory occurred in Norway's frigid northern waters, where he surfed between snow-covered mountains. This surreal experience reminded him of the stunning beauty found in unexpected places.

A balance of family and adventure

With young children, Alexander acknowledges the challenges of balancing family life with his passion. He often incorporates surfing into family trips, introducing his kids to the Ocean and creating memories together in places like Sri Lanka and Spain. As he puts it, 'The best strategy is to get them into surfing, too!' His commitment to sharing his passion with his family speaks to his belief in the value of adventure and the beauty of the natural world.

Advice for aspiring surfers

For those interested in surfing, Alexander recommends beginning in southern France, where gentle waves are ideal for beginners. 'It's good to have a teacher, at least for the basics,' he says, adding that a week or two in the water will help new surfers get comfortable on the board.

From an initial spark to a lifelong dedication, Alexander's surfing journey is a testament to the power of passion and the beauty of exploration. 

Surfing tips for beginner

Alexander used to give us surfing lessons during our 'Friday Fikas' — a remote get-together where we wrap up the week with casual conversations, quizzes, and shared tips. We don't want to keep his advice to ourselves, so here are some of Alexander's top tips for anyone looking to dive into surfing.

Start small and accessible:

• Choose a beginner-friendly location: Alexander recommends the French coastline, where the waves are smaller and more forgiving in the summer. This will give you a comfortable space to learn the basics.
• Practice consistently: A one- or two-week trip dedicated solely to surfing can make all the difference.

The first few days might be challenging — you'll likely only get as far as your knees — but with persistence, you'll eventually be able to stand on the board and feel the thrill of riding your first wave.

Consider a coach for the basics:

• Learn the proper techniques. Starting with a teacher can help you build a solid foundation. Even though many resources are available online, having someone correct your form and guide you in real-time is invaluable. Alexander trained under a coach in Fuerteventura, which he found extremely helpful.

Get the right gear

• Invest in a good wetsuit. Alexander emphasises the importance of good gear, especially when surfing in cold water. A quality wetsuit will keep you warm and comfortable, making it easier to focus on technique and enjoyment.
  
• Find the right board. Start with a beginner's surfboard, typically a longboard, as they are more stable and effortlessly balanced.

Stay safe and respect local customs:

• Observe the locals. Every surf spot has its culture and unspoken rules. Locals have priority on their waves, and understanding this helps you navigate crowded line-ups without friction. 'It's essential to have good manners,' Alexander says, as respecting local surfers fosters a more welcoming environment.
• Be aware of marine life. Alexander's experience with bull sharks is a good reminder that the Ocean is wild. Always be mindful of your surroundings, and if in doubt, ask locals about any safety tips for specific beaches.

Embrace the journey to the 'perfect wave':

• Be patient. Surfing can be slow, but every small progression counts. The ultimate goal is to catch the perfect wave, and while it may take hours or days, each session brings a new experience and teaches you more about the Ocean's rhythm.
• Enjoy the atmosphere. Even when the waves aren't ideal, Alexander finds joy in simply being in the water and enjoying the camaraderie of the surfing community. Embrace each session for what it brings, even if it's just a peaceful morning waiting for waves.

Stay inspired and keep exploring: 

• Set new goals, whether it's aiming to surf in a new country or tackling a famous wave, and set goals to keep your passion alive. Alexander dreams of surfing the long waves at Skeleton Bay in Namibia, a motivation that fuels his passion for exploration and adventure.
• Find beauty in different waves. Every location offers a unique experience, from snowy Norwegian shores to tropical beaches in Central America. Alexander advises surfers to appreciate these differences and the unique memories they create.

Maintain your surfing lifestyle off the board:

• Prioritise travel. For Alexander, surfing has been a driver for exploring new places. 'In Sweden, you really need to go away to get good waves,' he says, choosing destinations that allow him to surf and immerse himself in new cultures.
• Stay fit for surfing. Surfing demands a combination of endurance, strength, and balance. Maintaining a fitness routine that includes swimming, cardio, and core exercises will help you perform better in the water and enjoy your sessions more fully.

These tips from Alexander offer insight into not only how to start surfing but also how to keep a lifelong passion alive. As he says, 'surfing is a journey; the ocean is a place of endless lessons and unforgettable moments.'