Alex Botelho, Big Wave Surfer, ASI Instructor
Posted: 5 July 2017
ASI Surf Instructor Alex Botelho is a 24-year-old Portuguese big wave surfer from Lagos in Portugal.
His story proves that you can achieve your dreams by following your passions.
From humble beginnings learning to surf, he honed his surf skills and is now competing on the world stage in World Surf League Big Wave Surfing and XXL Surf competitions.
We had a chat with him about training and preparation for big wave surf events and why he wanted to become an ASI surf instructor.
Alex was originally discovered by ASI Trainer Sergio Wu Brandao when he first came to ASI Training Centre - Algarve Surf School as a 9-year-old kid. Sergio says: “I saw something different in him. He had no fear.” On Sergio, Alex says: “Over the years Sergio made sure I took every step in the right direction, from technical training to psychological guidance. Now that I’m older, it’s clear how adaptive and intelligent his training methods are.”
How does competing at home compare, with big wave spots like Nazare on your doorstep?
When competing in XXL events at home it gives me a slight edge. Confidence comes from knowing the surf spot and familiarity with the surroundings. Especially due to the fact that big wave spot Nazaré is such a challenging, shifty wave, I feeling pretty lucky to have this place in my comfort zone.
How is big wave surf training different from normal sized waves?
“The biggest difference is the psychological factor. The technique is the same as training in regular-sized waves, but to me, the psychological factor is the fundamental requirements needed to be in this kind of surfing. Being physically in shape is a must, but the strongest aspect to me is not only having a body or technique that can withstand these conditions but the psychological confidence that you can do it.”
“Specific underwater training is key. For example, holding the breath for much longer than you would ever be under water in a big wave hold down, brings you all the confidence to know that you can do it. It’s training to be in far worse situations than you could possibly ever be in. I do mostly dynamic apnea training, surprise apnea and control of the breathing muscles. To me, this type of physical training brings me the psychological confidence I need. I also do free dive spearfishing, Pilates and meditation.
What is life like as a travelling big wave surfer?
“It’s mostly about preparation of equipment, physical and psychological conditioning. The opportunities to surf big waves in good conditions don't come that often, so practising has to be mostly simulated and then taken full advantage of, whenever it’s on. Travelling and surfing big waves revolves mostly around last-minute weather forecasts that end up being your life and schedule.
What made you become an ASI surfing instructor?
“I have been focussed fully on training for the past four years but this year I have taken some time off to train as an ASI Surf Instructor with my mentor Sergio in Portugal. I wanted the opportunity to combine my love of surfing with travelling the world and earning money. Surfing is my life so it made sense for it to be my job too.”
Alex Botelho is one to watch. He will compete next on home turf at the Nazaré Challenge - World Surf League Big Wave Tour held at Nazare, Leiria in Portugal in October 2017.
And you may even have surf lessons from him !
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ASI (Academy of Surfing Instructors), is the worldwide peak body for Instructors and Coaches in the outdoor recreation and sport industry for surfing, stand up paddle and bodyboarding.
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