ASP World Tour #5, Courtney Conlogue and the Burkie Boys team up to coach a surfing lesson
At 19 years old, Courtney Conlogue is one of the dominant forces in women’s surfing. Currently ranked #5 on the ASP World Tour, Courtney is also the highest ranked American. With her busy schedule, this world class shredder still found the time to come down to Barbados and spend a chilled day teaching a surf lesson to the children of the Codrington School. But Courtney didn’t have to coach alone, she was joined by two of Barbados’ most talented junior surfers, Josh and Jacob Burke.
Adrenaline Sun spoke to Courtney about her coaching experience and riding the Bajan waves.
What was the experience like to be teaching these Barbadian kids how to surf?
They are a great group of kids. I love them and enjoyed surfing with them. They were very eager to hear some of my knowledge. The conditions were conducive to learning how to surf.
I know that you still have a lot more to do in your career but is coaching something you would consider after you retire?
I haven’t thought about coaching after I retire but I enjoy sharing my knowledge of surfing to those who are eager to learn.
What was it like to be coaching with Josh and Jacob Burke?
We worked well together in helping out the kids. Josh and Jacob are always fun to hang out with in the water.
The Burkie boys are 2 of Barbados’ top junior surfers, after spending the past week, how do they compare with other kids their age from around the world?
Josh is definitely at the level of all the top young surfers around the world. He is definitely an up and comer and he has a bright future. He is always pushing his surfing to the next level. Jacob definitely loves surfing. He is full of fun, full of laughs and jokes and enjoys being in the water. He is definitely advanced for his age in his radical surfing moves.
What spots did you surf in Barbados?
Soup Bowl was a lot of fun. I look forward to coming back when the swell is good. It is a good training ground for competition. I enjoyed surfing Freights on the longboard. South Point was a lot of blast especially when the kids got out of school and took over the line up.
You’ve surfed all over the world, in your opinion how do the waves in Barbados rank in comparison?
With a good incoming swell, Barbados is definitely a top destination for surfing. I really enjoyed surfing all over the island and can’t wait to return.
You’re currently the highest ranked American on the ASP Women’s Rankings, do you ever look back and marvel at how much you’ve achieved in your career?
I look at my next goal and constantly keep building and improve my surfing skills. This is not the time to reminisce on the past. I’ll have plenty of time to do that after I retire.
What are some of the newer goals that you’ve set?
I focus on constantly improving from my results from the previous year. Becoming world champion is my ultimate goal.
If you aren’t surfing, what can we find you doing?
When I am not surfing, I can be found golfing, painting, exploring, holding the map and asking for directions.
Describe Courtney Conlogue’s perfect wave.
A barrel off the take off, nice rippable inside section, and a layback air finish on the sand!
How did you get the nickname Tiger?
I got this nickname when I was four for my fierceness while learning martial arts. It grew on everyone as I started competing on the tour.
Where is your favorite place in the world to surf?
My favorite place to surf is the Mentawai Islands but Barbados could be my favorite if I score with epic waves in my future visits.
What is on your calendar for the rest of the year?
China, Hawaii and Australia.
What are your five favorite songs for right now?
Katy Perry’s “Wide Awake”, Gym Class Heroes’ “The Fighter”, Adele’s “Skyfall”, Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab” and Jack Johnson’s “Banana Pancakes”.
What are your five favorite foods for right now?
Chinese, Sushi, Classic steak and garlic mashed potatoes, Italian, Lobster and Clam Chowder.
Any Last Words?
Thank you so much to the Burke family for allowing me to be a part of your family. I had an amazing time. You made me feel at home. I look forward to coming back soon. Thanks to all the locals for sharing their waves with me.
photos by Alan Burke
Jamal Hall
Jamal Hall is the Chief Digital Media Officer of web development company, Island Evolved Inc. His many roles include being an action sports writer, photographer and correspondent for Island Evolved's subsidiary company Adrenaline Sun.
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