Photo: Dominic Marley
As a European, British and English surfing champion Alys Barton is a shinning light on the UK competition scene. At the start of the European leg of the WQS and with Boardmasters only a few weeks away, SurfGirl had a quick catch up with Alys.
Alys, as a competition surfer, what does a typical training day look like for you?
My typical training day starts with waking up and having breakfast to fuel up. I’ll stretch to get my body ready for the day. Then I head out for my first surf session, which usually lasts 1-2 hours depending on the conditions. After that, I’ll come back for lunch and then head out for a second surf session. Once I’m done with that, I hit the gym for a strength and conditioning session. Finally, I’ll have dinner and make sure I get to bed early, usually by 8 or 9, to rest up for the next day.
Do you follow a specific diet or recovery routine to stay at peak performance?
I like to stick to high-protein meals and clean foods to keep my body healthy and performing at its best. But I definitely have a sweet tooth, and I love a good treat! It’s all about finding that balance and knowing what works best for your body. When it comes to recovery, it really depends on how much surfing and training I’ve done. If I feel like I need it, I’ll make sure to take time to stretch, rest, and roll out to keep my body in top shape.
Photo: Dominic Marley
What mental techniques do you use to stay focused and confident during competitions?
Before competitions, I like to find a quiet spot to warm up and relax, where I can really focus. I’ll mentally “surf,” visualising my moves and getting myself in the zone to perform at my best. Competition is all about harnessing that excitement and channeling it to impress the judges and the crowd. Staying mentally focused and confident is key, so I try to stay calm and channel that energy in the right direction.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your surfing career so far?
There have definitely been many challenges, especially since the conditions are always changing. The weather and elements can be unpredictable, making it tough to find a consistent rhythm with the ocean. Being in new places and dealing with different waves all the time adds to that challenge. But honestly, it’s these very challenges that I love about surfing—the constant learning, adapting, and overcoming obstacles keeps it exciting and pushes me to grow as a surfer.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received about surfing?
The best piece of advice came from my dad. He told me that surfing is all about showing off and performing. When you’re competing, it’s about demonstrating what you’re capable of and expressing your own unique wow factor. It’s not just about riding the waves—it’s about making it exciting and leaving an impression. That mindset really stuck with me.
Photo: Steve Longstaffe
You’ve recently become a Boardmasters Ambassador?
Yes, I’m beyond excited to be part of the team, and I can’t wait to take part in the contest this year. It’s a huge honour, and I’m really looking forward to everything that comes with it!
How stoked are you to compete in a WQS at Fistral during Boardmasters?
I’m so excited to compete in a WQS in the UK—it definitely feels special! There’s always great competition at the WQS, and I’m really excited to take on all the girls. Surfing at Fistral during Boardmasters is always such a great experience. The energy there is incredible, and I can’t wait to put on a show for everyone. It’s a place I really love, and I’m pumped to bring my best performance to the event!
What are you looking forward to at this year’s Boardmasters?
I’m really looking forward to competing in front of the crowd. The atmosphere is always incredible, and the people around the festival make it even better. Also I’m hoping to catch some amazing live performances and experience some awesome music. It’s always such a great vibe. Most years, I don’t get a chance to go up to the festival because of how close the contests are, but hopefully, this year I will get a chance!
Get to Fistral Beach 6-10th August and watch the surfing action live and lots more!
Find out more and get tickets here boardmasters.com
Photo: WSL/ Damien Poullenott
