We caught up with the Swiss surfer to find out how surfing in the mountains works
Interview by Anna Langer
Hey Alena, you’re a pro surfer from Switzerland – how does that work with no access to the sea?
Well I do it like all the other Swiss surfers (and there are, unexpectedly, a lot), I’m travelling as much as I can and try to stay fit during the dry spell in Switzerland.
How come you developed a passion for water & waves instead of the mountains and frozen water?
When I was a kid my family was travelling a lot because my dad was working for an airline. So I was much more on the sea than in the mountains. Back then I didn’t have the chance to start surfing. But my sister and I were just playing all day long in the shore break and the fascination for the water and the waves has stayed ever since. Surfing I discovered much much later (I’ve been surfing regularly since 2006).
Would you say the difficult circumstances make your love for surfing even stronger?
Definitely! I appreciate every single wave I can ride. We even ride waves in Switzerland…
You are travelling a lot to satisfy your passion. Where have you been this year?
I was surfing all around Europe but also in Indonesia and South Africa.
What was your favourite trip so far and why?
Ah, there were so many great trips… I love to discover something new on every single trip; as long as there is no longer flat period during a trip and I don’t get injured. I’ve been just stoked about almost every single trip so far!
Are there any rookie mistakes to make when travelling?
Bring too much stuff along. And getting angry if something doesn’t work out as planned.
What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learnt about travelling so far?
Live every single second like it would be your last one because maybe it really is…
Do you ever get homesick?
When I’m injured or sick.
Would you move to the beach if you could?
Yes I would if I could!
There are so many girls out there who are landlocked and far from the ocean as you, what advice can you give to get through the dry spells?
Do other sports and study or work, don’t get too frustrated and most important: plan your next trip!
Alena is sponsored by Roxy, SIGG, cp-eyewear, niceone, Swox
