With a smile and a wave this underground wave assassin goes about his day. But don’t let his gentle nature on land fool you, because when the surf is heaving he gets tough and paddles out. Meet our next Surf Ninja, Phil Nel…
NAME: Phil Nel
AGE: 33
LOCAL SPOT: Kogel Bay, Caves
BEST THING ABOUT SURFING?
The weekly teachings of an ocean life.
WORST THING ABOUT SURFING?
Acute neck whiplash, knee ligament ruptures and lower back pain are common surf injuries.
TO MAKE A LIVING I…
I partner at Le Roux & Nel Biokinetics, Somerset West.
(check out our ‘Dry-Docked’ series; a look at surf injuries that Phil helped us compile – Ed)
THREE TRACKS THAT HELP YOU SHRED?
DIIV – Doused
Pantera – Walk
Royal Blood – Out of the Black
BEST SURFER IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW?
John John.
DAWNIE OR ARVO SESH?
Late arvo.
WHICH SPOT DO YOU WANT TO SURF BEFORE YOU DIE?
Somewhere in the Andaman and Nicobar islands with Lara.
WHEN YOU ARE NOT SURFING, YOU CAN BE FOUND WHERE?
Chilling at our riverside cottage with the furry kids.
GREATEST FEAR?
Ignorant conditioning of great white sharks…
BEST SURFING MEMORY?
Surfing Sunset solo last year.
I met Phil one dawnie session in J-Bay and the next thing I’m staying at his house in the Boland with my own personal surf guide to his home breaks. Phil is a serious legend and one of the nicest guys you could meet. World champ in my books.
Knowing Philip and dealing with him on a day to day basis along with my son is great. He connects with old and young alike, surfer, farmer, lawyer or who ever
and has a lifetime of knowledge behind his 33 years of existence. An inspiration to many while surfing like he’s possessed by Neptune himself. You Rock Bru!!!
I surfed with Philip quite few times in the past especially during Boland trials.
I remember once he got me medical attention after been stung by a Blue bottle…i was in so much pain and did not know him very well at that time, glad hi came to my rescue as i was stuck with no help…a man with a helpful nature is a good man…good to see him charge!!!
Very cool guy, with plenty good energy and vibes. Always open and welcoming, this ou can stay with me any time 😉
Well done dude! I remember the days in highschool we were working your surfboard design and here you are famous!
Stoked to see you get some media coverage. The sport of surfing can be glad they have you !. Thanks for looking after Mafoosie.