Surfing roots in Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant coastal communities, is now making waves in the world of surfing. While the country has long been celebrated for its football talent, a new generation of athletes is turning to the ocean, embracing the sport with passion and determination.

For years, the beaches of Assinie and Grand-Bassam have been popular among locals and tourists alike, but only recently has surfing begun to gain recognition as a competitive sport. The warm waters of the Atlantic and the consistent swells provide ideal conditions for surfers looking to hone their skills. Despite this, the sport remains relatively new in the country, with only a handful of dedicated surfers pushing to establish a thriving scene.

Among them is Souleymane Sidibe, who grew up near the coast, watching the waves crash against the shore. Inspired by visiting surfers and the few local pioneers who braved the ocean, he picked up a board and never looked back. Without formal training or access to high-end equipment, he and his peers relied on sheer determination and a deep connection to the sea to develop their technique.

Surfing in Ivory Coast is more than just a sport; it is a growing movement that represents resilience and ambition. With the country’s first-ever surfing competition now underway, local surfers see an opportunity to showcase their talent and prove that Ivory Coast has a place on the global surfing map.

“We have the waves, we have the passion, and now we have the chance to show the world what we can do,” says Sidibe, reflecting on the journey that has brought him to this moment.

As the sport continues to gain traction, young surfers like Sidibe hope to inspire the next generation, proving that Ivory Coast’s coastline is not just a place for relaxation, but a proving ground for future champions.

Preparing for the competition

With the competition fast approaching, Sidibe knows that preparation is key. Each morning, he rises before dawn, making his way to the shoreline where the waves are at their cleanest. The rhythmic sound of the ocean serves as both a wake-up call and a reminder of the challenge ahead. He stretches on the sand, loosening his muscles before paddling out into the surf, where he spends hours refining his technique.

Training for a competition of this scale requires more than just time in the water. Sidibe carefully studies the conditions, learning how the tides and winds affect the waves. He watches footage of professional surfers, analyzing their movements and strategies, hoping to incorporate their precision into his own style. Without access to professional coaching, he relies on advice from fellow surfers and his own instincts to push his limits.

Equipment is another challenge. Unlike surfers in more established surf destinations, Sidibe and his peers often make do with second-hand boards, some of which have seen better days. He meticulously maintains his board, waxing it carefully to ensure maximum grip and control. Every ding and crack tells a story of past battles with the waves, but he refuses to let limitations hold him back.

Beyond the physical preparation, Sidibe understands the importance of mental strength. He visualizes his runs, imagining himself carving through the waves with confidence and style. The pressure of competition is immense, but he embraces it, knowing that this is his chance to prove himself. With each passing day, his determination grows stronger, fueled by the dream of standing on the podium as one of Ivory Coast’s first surfing champions.

Chasing the champion’s dream

For Sidibe, the competition is more than just a chance to win a title—it is a stepping stone toward a greater dream. He envisions himself competing on the international stage, representing Ivory Coast in global surfing events. The idea of traveling to renowned surf destinations, testing his skills against the world’s best, fuels his ambition. But he knows that the road ahead will not be easy.

Despite the challenges, Sidibe remains undeterred. He draws inspiration from professional surfers who have risen from humble beginnings to achieve greatness. He studies their journeys, learning how they overcame obstacles and built their careers. He dreams of one day securing sponsorships that will allow him to train with top-tier equipment and compete in world-class events. Until then, he relies on his unwavering dedication and the support of his local surf community.

His family and friends play a crucial role in his journey. While some initially questioned his decision to pursue surfing seriously, they have come to admire his passion and commitment. They gather on the beach to watch him train, cheering him on as he perfects his maneuvers. Their encouragement strengthens his resolve, reminding him that he is not just chasing a personal dream—he is paving the way for future generations of Ivorian surfers.

As the competition day draws closer, Sidibe feels a mix of excitement and nerves. He knows that every wave he rides will be a chance to prove himself, to show that he belongs among the best. The thought of standing on the winner’s podium, holding his board high in triumph, pushes him to train harder, to refine every movement, and to embrace the challenge ahead.

“This is just the beginning,” he says with determination. “I want to show that Ivory Coast has surfers who can compete with the best. One day, I hope to inspire others to follow this path.”

With his board waxed and his mind focused, Sidibe is ready to take on the waves. Whether he wins or not, he knows that this competition is a defining moment in his journey—a step toward turning his dream into reality.

Surfing roots: Sidibe’s childhood connection to the waves

Souleymane Sidibe grew up with the Atlantic Ocean as his backyard, where the rhythm of the waves shaped his childhood. While other kids kicked a football around dusty streets, Sidibe was out in the surf, learning to read the ocean like a seasoned fisherman reads the tides.

His first board? Not some flashy fiberglass number—just a rough piece of wood, barely buoyant, but enough to get him hooked. Every wipeout, every saltwater tumble, only fuelled his obsession. The ocean became his playground, his teacher, and his fiercest competitor.

“Back then, we didn’t have proper boards,” Sidibe recalls. “We just made do with whatever floated.” But that didn’t stop him. He studied the waves, mimicked the older surfers, and slowly carved his own style—fast, fluid, and fearless.

For Sidibe, surfing wasn’t just a pastime; it was a calling. The waves of Assinie, a coastal town in Ivory Coast, became his proving ground. Each morning, before the sun had fully stretched over the horizon, he was out there, paddling hard, chasing the perfect ride.

Now, with Ivory Coast’s first-ever surfing competition on the horizon, Sidibe isn’t just another competitor—he’s a local legend in the making. And if his childhood taught him anything, it’s that the ocean rewards those who respect it, push their limits, and never back down from a challenge.

Chasing victory: Preparing for Ivory Coast’s first competition

With the competition looming, Sidibe’s routine has become as precise as a well-timed set rolling in. Dawn patrol sessions, endless paddling drills, and wave analysis—he’s leaving nothing to chance. The stakes are high, and he knows it. This isn’t just about winning; it’s about proving that Ivory Coast belongs on the global surf map.

His board, now a sleek fiberglass beauty, gets the royal treatment. Wax on, wax off—every stroke deliberate, every detail checked. “You’ve got to respect your board,” he says with a grin. “It’s like a good fishing rod—treat it right, and it won’t let you down.”

Training isn’t just about riding waves. Sidibe studies the ocean like a seasoned angler tracking the best fishing spots. He watches the swell, the wind shifts, the way the tide pulls—every element plays a role in his strategy. And when he’s not in the water, he’s on the sand, running drills, building the endurance needed to outlast the competition.

But it’s not all serious business. There’s a buzz in the air, a mix of nerves and excitement. The local surf crew gathers, swapping stories, sharing tips, and throwing in a bit of friendly banter. “Mate, if you don’t wipe out at least once, you’re not pushing hard enough,” one of them jokes. Sidibe laughs, but he knows—come competition day, he’ll be pushing harder than ever.

As the sun dips below the horizon, he takes one last look at the waves. Tomorrow, they’ll decide his fate. But for now, he breathes it all in—the salt, the spray, the promise of what’s to come. He’s ready.