Ben Larg, charged with spirit at Mullaghmore, becomes the youngest ever invitee to the Tudor Nazare Challenge.
Arrival at Lost Shore
Ben Larg is running a bit late. We’re at Lost Shore, Scotland’s first wave pool located in Ratho, near Edinburgh. Already popular among the Scottish surfing community, the venue serves as both a surf haven and an upscale coffee and pizza spot for Edinburgh’s trendy crowd. The atmosphere is a blend of industrial charm with artistic touches.
A Portrait of Humility
Sam Howard, the photographer, hoped to capture the first light, but Ben arrives later than expected. His filmer, Oscar, lightheartedly comments, “Ben Larg on time: that’s your headline.” Ben’s approachable nature—humble yet innocent—shines through. He’s a competitive athlete in the intense world of big-wave surfing, but at heart, he’s just a kid from Tiree who loves the ocean.
The Cold Quarry Morning
The sea lies forty miles away, but it’s a clear morning in the chilly quarry where Ben prepares for photoshoots. Dressed in a damp wetsuit, he amuses himself by following instructions for poses and expressions. This is part of the less glamorous side of professional surfing, focused on content creation rather than competition, a realm Ben is still exploring.
Growing Up on Tiree
Now twenty, Ben was raised on Tiree, a picturesque island in the Inner Hebrides, characterized by stunning white sand beaches and wildflowers. Yet, the island faces challenges: traditional lifestyles are dwindling, and an Airbnb presence replaces community spirit. At last count, Tiree’s population stood at just 653.
A Journey into Surfing
From a young age, Ben became captivated by surfing, spending nearly every day in the water. His family began winter trips to Lanzarote when he was fourteen, enriching his surfing experience. Coach Craig “Suds” Sutherland introduced him to competitions, which ignited his passion, offering him both a social outlet and motivation amidst the struggles he faced in school.
Conquering the Waves
Ben’s skill grew, especially in big waves, making a name for himself by surfing at Mullaghmore Head at just fourteen. His feat of becoming the youngest to compete in the Tudor Nazare Challenge exemplified his talent. Teaming with Andrew Cotton, he finished third in individual standings amidst seasoned surfers, proving he belongs at the elite level.
The Future of Ben Larg
Despite his achievements, the financial aspects of big wave surfing remain challenging. Ben’s family supports him wholeheartedly, providing a nurturing environment that allows him to thrive. While he contemplates new explorations and ambitious projects, his passion for the ocean remains central to his journey. As Andrew Cotton wisely notes, sometimes, all that’s needed is the right wave at the right moment to change one’s life.
