Al Mennie

Al Mennie is a true adventurer and explorer. A pioneer of big wave surfing, Al thrives in the unknown, where the rush of adrenaline meets the raw power of nature. Born in Belfast during the tumultuous era of the "Troubles," Al’s early life was shaped by resilience and a deep connection to the sea—a gift from his father that would define his destiny.  

From representing Ireland in international surfing competitions to chasing the world’s most monstrous waves, Al’s journey is a testament to pushing boundaries. He’s a trailblazer in the frigid waters of Ireland and a key figure in the early days of Nazaré, Portugal—the now-iconic big wave Mecca. Al's pioneering efforts in remote locations during Project Red in the early 2000's laid the foundations for a deep understanding of the ocean in its most extreme moments. Al rode the record-breaking swell at Mullaghmore Head in 2007 and was among the first elite crew tackling Nazaré’s towering waves in 2010. His legacy is immortalized on The Surfer Wall in Nazaré’s lighthouse, a rare honor bestowed by the local community.  And, in Belfast, his broken helmet and a replica board are exhibited in the Ulster Museum.

But Al is more than just a big wave surfer—he’s a modern-day Renaissance man. A 3rd degree black belt in Krav Maga, a model, a writer, and a motivational speaker, Al’s diverse skill set is as vast as the oceans he conquers. He’s the kind of person who paddles from Ireland to Scotland against the tide to raise funds for a heart charity, swims hundreds of Kilometer's in the dark and cold to raise awareness for mental health and has a training regime devised through experience and the input of his friend, world natural body building champion Rich Robinson.. 

Al’s story isn’t just about physical feats; it’s about mental fortitude and inspiring others. He’s penned multiple books, from an autobiography to guides on overcoming fear, anxiety, and grief. His writing is raw, relatable, and deeply human—a reflection of his belief that life’s toughest waves are meant to be ridden, not feared.  

In the digital world, Al’s presence is as commanding as his 6’5” frame. His image has graced campaigns for global brands like Guinness, Johnson & Johnson, and Airbnb. He’s even dipped into the world of entertainment through acting and performing stunt work for Game of Thrones star Kristofer Hivju. Al’s social media channels are a mix of jaw-dropping ocean footage, motivational insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his relentless pursuit of adventure.  

Al Mennie is more than an athlete or a waterman—he’s a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the power of the human spirit. Whether he’s riding a 50-foot wave, writing a book, or teaching self-defense to young people, Al’s mission is clear: to inspire others to face their fears, embrace life’s challenges, and find their own path to greatness.  

As the BBC once said, “A surfing colossus has arisen from the chilly waters off Ireland’s Causeway Coast. I think of Al Mennie as the modern-day Fionn MacCool.”  

Follow Al’s journey online and discover how one man’s passion for the unknown can inspire a world of courage and possibility.  

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