Surfer Profile : Sylvain Sarrazin
- Surf Grand Montréal
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Surf Grand Montréal wants to introduce you to members of its community. This month, we're featuring Sylvain Sarrazin. If you'd like to see your surfer profile published on our blog, feel free to fill out this form.
Where are you from?
Hendaye, on the Basque Coast in France.
Where do you live now?
Montreal, in the Rosemont neighbourhood.
What's your go-to board?
A modest SIC Darkhorse 7'4, which has really helped me progress.
Goofy or regular?
Regular.
Your favorite spot?
Canoa, in Ecuador.
Your favorite trick?
If only I knew how to do one… ;-)
A trick you dream of mastering?
A small roller to start with—let’s keep it realistic ;-)
A.M. or P.M.?
P.M. in life, but A.M. for surfing, often to avoid the crowds.
How did you discover surfing in Montreal?
I came across the VAG (Vague à Guy) during a bike ride.
What was your first experience with surfing in general?
I grew up in the Basque Country, where surfing culture is strong. I did some bodyboarding as a teen, then tried longboarding for the first time around 18. But to my great regret, I didn’t fully take advantage of living so close to the ocean.
Why do you surf?
For the fun of it, for the chance to build it into travel plans, and to make up for the lost time when I didn’t surf while living by the sea.
Your thoughts on the community?
It’s always a pleasure to meet fellow surfers at the VAG, share tips, and benefit from the veterans’ advice.
River or ocean surfing?
Both, captain.
Longboard or shortboard?
More of a mid-length fan.
Which countries have you surfed in?
France, California, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Uruguay.
Any surf plans in the near future?
An ocean surf retreat in Canoa. As for river surfing: entering from the lower entrance at the VAG and trying Habitat 67 this year.
What do you love about surfing in Montreal?
Having two stationary waves so close to the city and so accessible is incredible. Very few big cities in the world can say the same. I love the reaction of surfers from elsewhere when I show them videos of our stationary waves.
Any other passions besides surfing?
Climbing, soccer, volleyball, playing music (guitar, bass, drums, piano), photography, travel, literature.
Your best surf moment in Montreal?
When a blue dragonfly landed on the nose of my board and stayed there the entire ride—one of my longest ones too.
What do you bring in your surf bag?
A wetsuit (always—even a shorty in summer, I get cold easily), booties (always, especially to avoid wrecking my feet getting in and out), lots of snacks (chocolate and candies to share with other surfers), a book, and a pair of webbed gloves that help with paddling—they’re one of my trademarks and give off a proudly duck-like vibe :-)
Your worst wipeout?
Caught in a much bigger-than-usual set at Popoyo, I got slammed so hard that my leash plug ripped out of the board. I got to watch my surfboard do a nice aerial show as the waves tossed it back to shore—without me. In the end, a few dings, a swim back through the currents, and a little scare.
Your dream surf trip?
Discovering a perfect, totally unknown spot—whether it’s an undiscovered river wave in Quebec or a hidden beach break on the other side of the world.
Favorite surf music?
Without a doubt, California punk rock—it’s such a boost! NOFX, Pennywise, Bad Religion, etc.
What do you eat after a good session?
A good ice cream and a bowl of Japanese green tea.
Favorite surf Instagram account?
@erika_drolet
A local surfer who inspires you?
Dominique Pouliot—a model of perseverance and always great company at the VAG.
A funny surf anecdote?
I once saw an instructor take off on a wave and surf on his head, in a straight-up handstand position. I even have a photo to prove it!
What would you like other surfers to know about you?
I often have candy and chocolate to share :-) It won’t make you surf better, but it’s always a welcome treat.
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