Alix: The First IBSA World Tour Champion. A French Bodysurfer’s Journey to Victory

The IBSA (International Bodysurfing Association) World Tour 2024 culminated in an extraordinary moment: Alix, a 22-year-old lifeguard from Vieux Boucau in South-West France, was crowned the first-ever IBSA World Tour Champion. Alix’s rise to the top of the bodysurfing world is a testament to his dedication and love for the sport. We sat down with him to learn more about his journey, his highlights from the 2023 season, and his experience at the 2024 IBSA World Tour Final in Hawaii.

A Passion for Bodysurfing from the Start

Alix’s passion for bodysurfing started at the age of 12, growing up in the coastal town of Vieux Boucau. His journey began at the Fils de Baïnes club in Moliets, where he has honed his skills over the past ten years.

"I discovered bodysurfing through coastal lifesaving," Alix shares. "My coach, Kévin, was really into bodysurfing, and he encouraged us to give it a try. I immediately loved it."

His love for the sport has been a driving force throughout his journey, and he credits his local break as an important part of his development. “My home spot is a large beach break, multipic, typical of Landes waves,” he explains, describing the powerful, shifting waves of his home region.

The Road to the 2024 IBSA World Tour Final

Alix’s path to the 2024 IBSA World Tour Finals was marked by impressive performances throughout the 2023 season. Competing in two major European stages of the World Tour, Alix secured remarkable results: 1st place in Anglet and 3rd place in Mehdia, Morocco. These podium finishes enabled him to tie for 1st in the European rankings, which earned him the coveted qualification for the World Finals in Hawaii.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” Alix reflects. “The competition in Europe was intense, and I’m so proud to have qualified for the World Finals. It’s been a dream come true to compete in Hawaii.”

Point Panic and the Hawaiian Challenge

When it comes to preparing for the finals at the legendary Point Panic, Alix admits that he didn’t have any specific preparation. "I didn’t really do any specific preparation for this competition. I was just looking forward to discovering the mythical wave of Point Panic," he says.

Despite the lack of preparation, Alix’s natural skill and intuition as a bodysurfer shone through. Point Panic, with its powerful, often hollow waves, is one of the most iconic surf spots in the world. Alix’s performance, combined with his previous competition results, ultimately helped him secure the title of World Champion.

The Importance of Global Competition and Camaraderie

What sets the IBSA World Tour apart is its international flavor. With competitors from 15 different countries, the diversity of styles and approaches to bodysurfing brings a unique energy to every competition.

“It’s really great to compete against bodysurfers from all over the world,” says Alix. “You get to see different ways of riding, different maneuvers, and different visions of bodysurfing. It really pushes you to evolve and adapt.”

A Memorable Moment: Almost Missing the Call for Hawaii

When asked about a memorable moment from the 10 IBSA BWT QS events leading up to the finals, Alix shares a nail-biting experience. “I almost missed the call for the Hawaii final,” he laughs. “I got my lycra just 3 minutes before the start of my series and managed to get to the peak just in time. It was a bit of a rush, but that’s what made it so exciting!”

Winning the Euro Bodysurf Championship with Nathan Lehoux

In addition to his remarkable performance on the World Tour, Alix also won the prestigious Euro Bodysurf Championship in 2023 alongside his fellow French bodysurfer Nathan Lehoux. The duo’s success at the Euro Bodysurf Championship marked a significant milestone in their careers and underscored Alix's growing reputation as one of the top bodysurfers in the world.

Advice for Aspiring Bodysurfers

For young bodysurfers looking to follow in Alix's footsteps and compete on the world stage, he offers some valuable advice: “Get close to an enthusiastic club, spend time in the water, watch the ocean, ride, and most importantly, have fun!”

A New Era for Bodysurfing

Alix’s victory at the 2024 IBSA World Tour Final in Hawaii marks the start of an exciting new chapter in his bodysurfing career. His journey is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the growing global recognition of bodysurfing as a competitive sport.

However, for professional reasons, Alix will not be able to defend his title in the 2025 season. He will be proudly represented by his younger brother Noels, who recently made waves of his own by winning the European Tour, and is set to carry the family legacy onto the world stage.

Alix's victory is not just about skill and talent—it's a testament to his passion, perseverance, and the worldwide community of bodysurfers he is now proud to lead as the first IBSA World Tour Champion.