Surfer Profile: Michael Schlebach

Highlights:
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Another surfer who was an automatic inclusion due to his constant charging at Dungeons, Mikey’s inclusion was a literal no-brainer. From his humble beginnings as a body boarder around the peninsula, to a few long trips overseas sampling the waves of the world, to the strong and powerful waves of the peninsula, Mike has always been a strong presence in amongst it all.

Mike soon found his groove at the big wave spots around the Kommetjie area, heading out to The Kom and The Crayfish Factory, as well as Sunset Reef.

Mike is well known for getting one of the biggest barrels ever seen at Dungeons on that big Saturday two years ago. It was a tow wave, but it was after the biggest wave ridden by Greg Long, and before the biggest wipe-out drama of Simon Lowe. Mike got towed into a monster, and had no choice but to pull in. He made the wave, the photograph was taken, and there was fame and recognition.

 Still, the criteria for Red Bull Big Wave Africa is all about the paddle, and Mike has consistently had a go whenever there are waves pounding at the spots of the peninsula, especially at Dungeons. “The last time we attempted Dungeons when it was so big, we got there super-early,” said veteran big wave surfer Mickey Duffus. “When we arrived there, we spotted some guys having a go already, trying to get a few inside bowls. It was Mike and some mates, having a go before anyone even got there.”

So the reward comes with Mike’s inclusion into the event. No doubt he will impress, he has been known to.