Up and Coming - Axel Gerard

In this exclusive interview, Jen Tyler talks to Axel Gerard, an up-and-coming rider of AFS foils who is already making a name for himself in the world of wingfoiling at just 15 years of age. Discover his mindset and approach to reaching the top through this interview!

Congratulations on your impressive performance at the GWA Wingfoil World Tour! How does it feel to come second?

Thanks a lot! It feels amazing to grab second place in the Tarifa Wing Pro, especially after getting a podium at Leucate (I got third place there), which also helped me to secure the second position in the overall ranking. This was my fourth time at Tarifa, and I'm thrilled that I finally made it to the final, especially after last year's disappointment when I came so close to making it. I wanted to grab the first place, but Chris was just killing it out there, and it was tough to beat him. But I'll work on it!

What initially drew you to wingfoiling, and how did you get started?

I started surfing when I was seven years old. Later, I also tried surf foil and became interested in AFS Foils. I tried the equipment and loved it from the beginning. What attracted me to wingfoiling is its accessibility and the fact that it allows me to catch many waves by neutralising the sail, just like in surfoiling. 

Cabrinha | View in Mag

AFS Foils | View in Mag

What do you enjoy most about wingfoiling?

What I enjoy the most about wing foiling is the opportunity to get on the water in unfavourable conditions, such as light wind and small waves. This allows us to spend more time on the water and enjoy more sessions.

What challenges did you face while competing on the world tour, and how did you overcome them?

I've faced many challenges while competing on the world tour. Last year, losing the overall podium was hard for me, but the toughest moment was at Tarifa in the final. I crashed the first four attempts out of seven, and only three tricks counted. So, I had to land my following three tricks. I took a deep breath, concentrated, and told myself this was the moment. I started my last attempts with a hard trick that scored well: 1080. I knew that I could land it often. It happened, and then I did a nice backmobe, almost foil to foil. For the last one, I did a front flip 360, which was the trick when I was the most stressed in my entire life.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the world of wingfoiling?

My biggest inspirations would be Malo's creativity and Chris's consistency. However, having idols is difficult when you are competing against them!

What advice would you give to aspiring wingfoilers who want to compete professionally?

I think you need to work on your mental strength because it can be challenging to keep trying and failing repeatedly while practising. However, when you finally succeed and consistently land the tricks, it is one of the best feelings in the world!

How do you balance high school with your training and competitions?

The FFV has recognised me as a level athlete, which allows me to receive some assistance from my high school. At home, I attend school and train either on the water or by doing muscle-strengthening exercises. I make sure to complete my homework before anything else. During competitions, I work when there's no wind or before and after my heats.

Flysurfer | View in Mag

Forward WIP | View in Mag

What are your goals for your wingfoiling career in the future?

My goal for my wingfoiling career in the future is to become a world champion, not just in the freestyle discipline but also in the wave discipline. Additionally, I aim to improve my performance in the racing discipline, for which we are working closely with AFS's engineers to create the best gear possible.

What goes through your mind when you're out on the water competing?

When I'm competing, I get extremely focused. I always think about what I must do to win because I don’t like losing - I come to win! I played a lot of football when I was younger, which helped me develop a strong competitive mindset. That's why I try to put everything together to achieve victory.

What's the most memorable moment of your wingfoiling career so far?

One of the most unforgettable moments of my wingfoil career was when I defeated the reigning wingfoil wave world champion, Wesley Brito, just after he had won his title. This victory secured my position as third in the event and allowed me to step onto the podium for the first time in the wave discipline.

What improvements or innovations do you hope to see in the sport of wingfoiling in the coming years?

In the coming years, I would like to see wingfoiling incorporate more kitesurfing/windsurfing tricks and pure wave riding in perfect waves, similar to those we experienced at Punta Preta earlier this year.

What are your plans for 2024? 

My goals for 2024 are to place on the podium in freestyle, rank in the top 5 in waves, and be in the top 10 in slalom.

FacePlant | View in Mag

AFS Foils | View in Mag

Amazing! Thank you, Axel, for taking the time to chat. I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for you!

Thank you, Jen!