Andre Botha Rescues Wave Rider

Andre Botha rescues surfer Evan Geiselman during a big day at Pipe. If you watch the video below, you'll see Evan take off on a wave and then get sucked over after not making it out of the barrel. Then the video cuts to Andre getting there to help keep him afloat till the lifeguards arrive. Andre Botha was also honored by the Mayor of Honolulu for his efforts. (Video: Matt Castiglione)

Being apart of the Wave Slide Culture community, it is responsibility to be mindful of our surroundings and respectful to other wave riders in the lineup. With that being said, if you notice someone out in the lineup during a not so ideal day struggling, make an effort to get help from the Lifeguards and let that wave rider know that help is coming.

Spotlight Series: Andre Botha

This week's Rider Spotlight is one of the most stylish and influential wave riders in the world. We have Andre Botha. We would just like to say thanks for taking the time to do a little mini interview for our Blog. Please enjoy and maybe you'll end up knowing something that you never knew about Andre Botha. Thank you again!

 

Name? Andre Botha

 

Where are you from? Born in Cape Town and raised in Durban, South Africa

 

What got you into the sport? I was always attracted to the ocean, which is easy when you grow up on the coast.  It started at a very young age, swimming in the ocean and playing in the shore-break, it's a feeling I can always remember enjoying.   I joined Jr. Lifeguarding soon after and it proved to teach me a lot about the ocean. 

How long have you been wave riding? More than 25 years.

 

Amateur/Underground or Professional (Prone, Dropknee, Surfing, Surfmat, Bodysurf, etc.)?

Professional Prone 

What's your preferred board size, core, and tail shape? A Red 42 Crescent Tail.

 

Favorite Breaks (Can choose not to disclose or reveal locations)? Pipeline, Fronton, Cave Rock and of course, Teahupo'o 

Any words of advice for up and coming wave riders? Don't leave your trash on the beach and if you see any trash on the beach, than do your best to pick it up.  

Shout outs? Obviously my sponsors because without them this would not be possible.  Empire Bodyboards, 662Mob, Ally Swimfins!  And to everyone who has supported me and believed in me throughout the years.

High Voltage at Kiddyland

This clip features two of the most fearless wave riders taking on some of the heaviest shore break that Hawaii has to offer. They take the beatings and keep charging harder than the last time. We hope the sport of wave riding or other wave rider peers don't take these guys for granted because they're freaking amazing and fearless when it comes to these beatings. The video clip features Andre Botha and Seabass Perez, but the clip also has guest spotlights from other fearless shore break lovers. Enjoy the clip.