Introducing ASI Surf Coach Billy Janes, UK

Meet Billy Janes, an ASI Level 3 Surf Coach based at Gwithian, Cornwall England, UK.

Growing up next to the beach, Billy has been surfing from a young age and now lives the dream, working full time as a surf coach in the UK during the summer and spending his winters travelling.

We asked Billy a few questions to find out more…

What is your background?

I grew up in a wooden chalet at Gwithian on the North Coast of Cornwall. It’s a great surf beach and me, my brother and some friends would all surf straight after school. It was much quieter then and everyone knew everyone in the water.

What got you involved in the sport?

Well, my dad surfed and got me and my brother into it. Living so close to the surf it was what we did.

Why did you become an ASI instructor?

I did my school work experience at Gwithian Academy of Surfing (GAS) and really loved it. The surf school also teaches ASI instructors so I naturally went on to get my qualifications with them.  

What are you doing now?

I am now working full time for a surf school and travel in the winter. My girlfriend is a SUP instructor and works the same seasonal pattern so we are really lucky to be able to explore together. 

We have been to Sri Lanka, Bali, and I went to Australia before that. 

What do you like about being an ASI instructor?

I love being outdoors and on the beach and meeting lots of different people from all walks of life. 

The surf is a great leveller too. And it gives me the chance to travel.

Tell us about funny or interesting or nice situation that has happened to you with instructing?

It was funny one season, when my brother surf coached too. We do look quite similar, so most people thought I’d taught them when it was Jake. They’d continue conversations that I knew nothing about.

And back in the day when I was a grom, I used to get called into waves by Freddie a local legend. I’m now working with him at the school as he’s our Head Coach.

 A big thank you to Billy for taking the time to give us some insight into life as a Surf Coach.

About ASI

ASI is an international professional membership and training organisation and governing body for instructors, coaches and schools and clubs in the outdoor recreation industry for surfing, stand up paddle and bodyboarding.
ASI Accredited Schools abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.
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