Surf school owner hoping for further awards success

A TYRONE man could be set to pull off an inter-county coup at an upcoming awards night in Co Donegal, as Castlederg surfer James Garvey hopes to ride the waves towards becoming Young Business Person of the Year.

James, who started Rossnowlagh Surf School at just the age of 19 a decade ago, is one of three nominees in his category at Letterkenny Chamber’s Business Awards 2023.

Long recognised as a gifted talent on the water, the Derg man has also built a reputation as a consummate businessperson over the years.

Whereas some people in the world of business are led strictly by a desire for profit and revenue, James’ business model is built on a fundamental desire to see people uplifted by the power of the wave.

“To be honest, for me it has always been about getting kids into the sea and showing them the good stuff in life. For me, that means the outdoors and the sea.

“A generation of kids have – and continue to – grow up with phones and tablets constantly in their hands. It makes me feel good to see them in the water enjoying themselves,” he said.

A few months ago, James’ wave-riding academy was named one of the top surf schools in Europe.

Now, the Derg man hopes he can build on that success and clinch Young Business Person of the Year.

l Voting closes this Thursday, so if you would like to cast one in favour of James – and Tyrone – visit the ‘Rossnowlagh Surf School’ page on Facebook, and follow the link posted on the page.