We bring you an exclusive interview with the current Junior Men’s World Runner-Up.

A rider who’s been one of the biggest revelations among the new generation of young talents. At just 17 years old, and only five years into bodyboarding, his mix of style, variety, and power has already set him apart from the rest.

This young talent from Gran Canaria truly loves the sport. His favorite move is the air reverse, and he describes himself as an adventurer always looking to discover new places.

Here he is, exclusively for IBC — meet ALBERTO PÉREZ.

• How did you get started in bodyboarding, and what does it mean to you?

I started bodyboarding when I was 12 with my friend Lucas Vega, just surfing the shorebreak at Las Canteras beach. Little by little, I started to love it more and more, and I improved thanks to my dad and my friends.

Bodyboarding has become something essential in my life. Through this sport, I’ve met so many people, and it’s taught me to have fun and enjoy being out in the ocean.

• How did it feel to win the Grom King, the qualifying event for the big final at the Gran Canaria Frontón King?

I was super stoked — I honestly didn’t expect to win. It was a huge motivation to keep competing and learning.

• What are you studying right now, and what are your academic goals for the future?

I’m currently in my last year of high school. I’d like to study Geography, and I’ve also thought about becoming a firefighter.

• How do you see the level of young bodyboarders in the Canary Islands and around the world?

The level here in the Canaries is really solid. Everyone has their own style and way of surfing, so the future of bodyboarding here looks bright. And around the world, there are kids from so many countries surfing at a really high level — we’ll definitely be hearing more from them soon.

• In the last IBC World Tour stop at the Gran Canaria Frontón King, you were definitely one of the favorites, showing your level right from round one. Tell us a bit about how the comp went for you, heat by heat.

I felt super comfortable and confident through all the heats, just surfing the way I do in my free sessions. I think that’s what got me all the way to the final.

• What are your dreams, both in and out of bodyboarding?

In the water, my dream is to keep improving, keep competing, and enjoy every single session — whether it’s with friends or on my own. Outside the water, my dream is to be happy and to be a good person.

• Who are your idols?

• Pierre Louis Costes
• Elliot Morales
• Ben Player

• You couldn’t finish the Frontón King final because of a pretty scary moment. Tell us what happened.

After that big rollo in the final, I got totally disoriented and super dizzy — it was a really strange feeling. I couldn’t keep going under those conditions, but thankfully it was just a scare and nothing worse.

• Is there anyone who helps you improve your bodyboarding?

My coach, Daniel Quintana, definitely helps me the most — both technically and mentally. Without him, I don’t think I’d have gotten this far in competitions.

• What places in the world would you love to visit, and what waves would you like to surf?

I’d love to visit Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines. And I’d love to surf Pipeline, Nazaré, and Cloud 9.

• What message would you give to young people who are just starting or want to improve in bodyboarding?

To all the young riders just starting out — don’t get frustrated! It might feel tough at first, but the most important thing is to have fun, enjoy surfing, and share good times with your friends.

• Here’s your space to say hi, thank people, or share anything you’d like:

Big shoutout to the Chutongos and the Esquina Team!

Huge thanks to all my sponsors — BRISA BODYBOARDS, MPG EVENTS, OH QUE BUENO, and CACHO QUESO MAJORERO. And to my club, IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS.

THANKS!