Ian Walsh grew up in the shadow of Peahi. As a young grom, he thrived on competition, especially at heavy spots like Pipe. But as the years progressed, he took his place as one of the best surfers in one of the wildest lineups in the world at Jaws – just down the road from his boyhood home. He was able to earn that place specifically because of his comfort level in dangerous waves. His influence on the switch from tow-surfing to paddle in can’t be understated. Not to mention his important contributions to both the act of riding giant waves and the safety scene that surrounds it.
Ian recently released Four, a highlight reel of his best waves from the 2019-2020 big wave season at Jaws, Nazaré, Waimea, and Maverick’s, and it’s clear that when it comes to surfing waves of very serious consequence (or even riding snow of serious consequence), Ian Walsh is a giant.
Ian is currently nominated for two Big Wave Awards. Find out more at WorldSurfLeague.com.
