Early beginnings in the waves

Ben Larg’s passion for surfing began at an early age, shaped by the rugged coastline of the Isle of Tiree, a remote Scottish island known for its powerful swells. Growing up in a place where the ocean was both a playground and a challenge, he quickly developed a deep connection with the waves. With no formal training in the beginning, he spent countless hours in the water, learning through experience and sheer determination.

Unlike many young surfers who start in structured environments, Ben’s early days were defined by independence. He would paddle out alone, testing himself against the unpredictable conditions of the North Atlantic. The cold waters and shifting winds made for a tough learning ground, but they also forged his resilience and adaptability—qualities that would later set him apart in the competitive surfing world.

By the time he was in his early teens, Ben was already tackling waves that many seasoned surfers would hesitate to take on. His natural ability and fearless approach caught the attention of the local surf community, and it wasn’t long before he started making a name for himself beyond the shores of Tiree. Encouraged by his family and a small but dedicated group of supporters, he began to push his limits even further, seeking out bigger waves and refining his technique.

“Growing up on Tiree, I didn’t have a big surf scene around me, so I had to figure things out on my own,” Ben once shared in an interview. “But that also meant I learned to trust myself in the water, which has been a huge advantage.”

His early experiences in the wild, untamed surf of Scotland laid the foundation for what would become an extraordinary journey in the sport. With each session, he honed his skills, preparing himself for the challenges that lay ahead as he stepped onto the competitive stage.

Rising through the ranks

As Ben Larg’s skills progressed, so did his ambitions. Determined to test himself against the best, he began entering competitions across the UK and Europe, quickly making an impression with his fearless approach and technical ability. Unlike many of his peers who had grown up in established surf hubs with access to elite coaching, Ben relied on his self-taught instincts and the raw experience gained from years of surfing in the harsh conditions of the North Atlantic.

His breakthrough moment came when he competed in the British Junior Surf Championships, where he showcased his ability to handle powerful waves with confidence beyond his years. His performances in junior competitions earned him recognition, and soon, he was invited to train with some of the top surfers in the UK. This exposure to high-level coaching and international competition helped refine his technique and broaden his understanding of the sport.

But it wasn’t just in the contest scene that Ben was making waves. His passion for big-wave surfing set him apart from many of his contemporaries. While others focused on traditional competitive formats, Ben was drawn to the challenge of riding massive swells. Inspired by legendary big-wave surfers, he sought out opportunities to test himself in some of the most demanding conditions in Europe, including the infamous waves of Mullaghmore in Ireland and Nazaré in Portugal.

“I’ve always been drawn to the bigger waves,” Ben explained in an interview. “There’s something about the power and unpredictability that excites me. It’s not just about skill—it’s about mindset, preparation, and respect for the ocean.”

His dedication to big-wave surfing led to collaborations with experienced watermen who helped him develop the safety skills and physical conditioning required to take on these extreme conditions. Training in breath-hold techniques, rescue protocols, and jet ski-assisted tow-ins became a crucial part of his preparation, ensuring he was ready for the challenges that came with chasing giant waves.

As his reputation grew, so did the opportunities. He began receiving sponsorships from major surf brands, allowing him to travel further and push his limits even more. Competing in international events and tackling some of the world’s most notorious waves, Ben was no longer just a promising young surfer from Scotland—he was becoming a recognised name in the global surf community.

A promising future in surfing

With his fearless approach and growing experience in big-wave surfing, Ben Larg is now poised to make an even greater impact on the sport. At just 20 years old, he has already tackled some of the most challenging waves in Europe, proving that he has the skill and determination to compete at the highest level. But for Ben, the journey is far from over—he has his sights set on even bigger challenges and new frontiers in the world of surfing.

One of his main goals is to continue pushing the limits of big-wave surfing, taking on legendary breaks such as Jaws in Hawaii and Mavericks in California. These waves, known for their immense power and dangerous conditions, attract only the most skilled and fearless surfers. Ben has been training rigorously, both in and out of the water, to ensure he is physically and mentally prepared for the demands of these extreme surf spots.

Beyond competition, Ben is also passionate about using his platform to inspire the next generation of surfers. Coming from a remote island with limited access to professional coaching and resources, he understands the challenges that young surfers from non-traditional surf regions face. He hopes to encourage others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they come from, and to show that dedication and perseverance can lead to success in the sport.

“I want to keep pushing myself, but I also want to help others see that you don’t have to grow up in a big surf town to make it,” Ben said. “If you have the passion and the drive, you can find a way.”

His journey has already inspired many, and with continued support from sponsors and the surf community, he is well on his way to becoming a major figure in the world of big-wave surfing. As he prepares for future challenges, one thing is certain—Ben Larg is a name that surf fans will be hearing a lot more of in the years to come.

Early beginnings on the Isle of Tiree

Ben Larg’s love affair with the ocean kicked off when he was just a grom, carving up the waves near his home on the Isle of Tiree. With its wild Atlantic swells and rugged coastline, Tiree isn’t exactly the Gold Coast, but for a kid with saltwater in his veins, it was the perfect playground.

While most youngsters were kicking a footy or glued to a screen, Ben was out there—just him, his board, and the raw power of the sea. No crowded line-ups, no surf schools, just pure trial and error. And let’s be honest, probably a few wipeouts that would make even the toughest Aussie surfer wince.

By the time he was in his early teens, Ben was already tackling waves that would send most weekend warriors paddling for shore. The cold? Didn’t bother him. The isolation? Only made him hungrier. He wasn’t just surfing—he was learning the ocean, reading its moods, and figuring out how to dance with it.

Growing up in a place where the wind howls and the waves don’t always play nice, Ben developed a style that’s all about power and precision. No flashy tricks, no unnecessary risks—just clean, fearless surfing. And that foundation? It’s what set him up for the big leagues.

Rising as a promising surfer

As Ben grew older, his talent became impossible to ignore. By his mid-teens, he was already making waves—literally and figuratively—on the competitive scene. While most kids his age were still figuring out their stance, Ben was charging into some of the heaviest surf Europe had to offer.

His breakthrough moment came when he started taking on the monster waves at Mullaghmore in Ireland. Not exactly a friendly beach break—this place is a cold-water beast that has humbled even the best. But Ben? He paddled out, took the drop, and proved he wasn’t just another young hopeful—he was the real deal.

That fearless approach caught the attention of the surfing world. Sponsors started knocking, and suddenly, the kid from Tiree was rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in big-wave surfing. But despite the growing recognition, Ben kept his head down and his focus sharp. No ego, no fuss—just a relentless drive to push himself further.

Training became more intense. It wasn’t just about surfing anymore—it was breath-hold training, strength work, and mental preparation for the kind of waves that don’t give second chances. And with every session, every wipeout, and every successful ride, Ben was proving he belonged among the best.

Now, at 20, he’s not just another young surfer with potential—he’s a serious contender in the world of big-wave surfing. And if his journey so far is anything to go by, the best is yet to come.