Alys Barton, a 22-year-old surfer from Swansea, has become the first Brit to qualify for the Challenger Series.
Words: Callum Thomas & Alys Barton Photos: @1the_gill1/
The next step up from the regional QS (Qualifying Series) before the World Tour (the Dream Tour).
Over the past few years, Alys has been making great progress. Her surfing has a fast, explosive approach, and she has consistently been making finals and climbing the QS rankings.
Alys, along with other UK talents, has been chipping away on the QS for the past few years, travelling together and trying to keep costs down — as it all quickly adds up.
Patrick Langdon-Dark, a Welsh surfer and the only Brit to compete in two Challenger Series events in 2022 as an alternate, has been a sparring partner for Alys over the past few years, alongside her brother Elliot.
It feels absolutely incredible. I still can’t quite believe I’m the first British surfer to qualify for the Challenger Series. It’s been such an exciting couple of weeks, and now that it’s starting to sink in, I’m shifting my focus to the reality of what comes next — organising the logistics, finding the funding to make it possible, and training hard over the next two months to be ready.It’s a huge milestone, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward.
Of course it crossed my mind. I knew I would need a huge result, and I wasn’t even sure mathematically if a win would be enough. But I made a conscious decision to focus purely on surfing my best and taking it heat by heat.
My goal was simple: win heats and stay present.I ended up finishing second, which I was really proud of. It was only after the presentation that I found out I had officially qualified for the Challenger Series. That moment was incredibly special — a mixture of shock, relief, and excitement all at once.
I’ve been travelling with my family to all of the QS events, which, as you can imagine, comes with a huge financial commitment. My brother competes as well, so having two of us on the QS has made it even more challenging.
Surfing at this level is expensive, and unlike some other sports, the prize money is relatively small. Even if you win an event, you rarely come away with any real profit once travel and accommodation are covered. That financial pressure definitely adds stress.Over the past year, with limited sponsorship support, it’s been especially tough. I wouldn’t have been able to continue without the support of my parents. They’ve sacrificed a lot to help me chase this goal, and I’m incredibly grateful.
I’m really excited to compete at Huntington Beach, California. I’ve been there a couple of times before, and it’s such an iconic venue. It’s famous for the classic “Huntington Hop,” and it’s a wave that really rewards sharp, technical surfing.What makes it even more special is the atmosphere — the beach gets packed, the crowd is right there on top of you, and you really feel the energy while you’re competing. It can be a challenging wave, but it can also be super fun when it’s on.That said, I’m genuinely excited for the entire tour. There are a few new locations I haven’t been to before, and I can’t wait to experience different waves, cultures, and conditions along the way.
No major sponsor — have any brands come in since qualifying? Has British surfing been able to financially contribute for you?
At the moment, I don’t have a major sponsor. There’s a lot of empty space on my board that I’d love to fill. I’m very grateful to the sponsors who have supported me with product and backing over the years, but stepping up to the Challenger Series requires a different level of financial support. Right now, securing a major sponsor is essential if I’m going to compete on the Challenger Series.
As for GB, there isn’t any official funding allocated specifically for the Challenger Series. However, they have offered to help try to source financial support, which I really appreciate. It’s not guaranteed funding, but it’s positive that they’re willing to explore options.
It’s hard to narrow it down to just one person. My biggest inspirations have definitely been my family — especially my brother Elliot and Pat — as well as my mum and dad for always pushing me to keep improving and supporting me through everything.I’ve also had great support from mentors like Pat, who have helped guide me along the way. And honestly, anyone who’s given me feedback — positive or negative — has played a role in my journey. Constructive criticism is what helps you grow, and I’ve always tried to use that as motivation to keep moving forward and becoming the best surfer I can be.
Langland Boardriders hosted a fundraiser on April 18th. How important has LBR been to you? And do you think you’ll inspire the next Alys Barton?
Langland Boardriders has been huge for me. I honestly can’t thank them enough for the support they’ve given me over the years — both when I’m at home and when I’m away competing. It’s always such a great crew to come back to, and Langland itself is such a special place. There’s always a good atmosphere and a lot of laughs.
I’m incredibly grateful they’re hosting a fundraiser. Clubs like LBR are so important, especially at a local level. They give young, up-and-coming surfers the opportunity to compete, experience a contest environment, and learn from others — all in a fun and supportive setting. Because the events are enjoyable and community-driven, it takes away some of the pressure and helps kids stick with the sport for the right reasons.
Langland has produced some of Britain’s best surfers over the years, and I’m proud to be one of them. I hope I can inspire the next generation coming through, and I’m excited to see many more talented surfers continue that tradition for years to come.
Langland Boardriders hosted a fundraiser party at the Doghouse in Mumbles on Saturday, 18th April, to help raise funds for Alys before she takes the next step up to the Challenger Series in just a few months’ time. There’s also a GoFundMe link below if you’re able to support Alys in any way.
