Riding Waves and Finding Freedom: An Interview with Ambassador, Annie

Hey everyone,

We’re so excited to introduce Annie as the newest Marnie Rays Kooks ambassador! Based in Portrush, Northern Ireland, Annie’s journey into surfing is a testament to passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to the ocean. From her first lesson in 2013 to becoming a surf instructor and lifeguard, she’s dedicated to not just riding waves, but also helping others find joy and confidence in the water. We caught up with Annie to hear more about her journey, her love for surfing, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Can you tell us a bit about where you’re from and how you first got into surfing?

I currently live in a lovely seaside town called Portrush, on the North Coast of Northern Ireland, which has some of my favourite surf spots. I grew up loving sports, and while surfing always intrigued me, I never had the opportunity to try it. In 2013, while living in Belfast, I finally booked my first lesson and I was instantly hooked. Soon after, I moved to the coast, bought a board, and turned my passion into a career as a surf instructor and beach lifeguard.

How do you hope to inspire or influence other surfers, especially those just starting out?

I hope to inspire new surfers by showing them that the journey is just as important as the destination. Surfing can feel intimidating at first, but it’s about building confidence and a connection with the ocean, not just chasing the biggest waves. I want to encourage beginners to embrace the learning process, be patient with themselves, and celebrate the small victories. Progress isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about understanding the ocean, finding joy in the experience, and feeling at home in the water.

What does surfing mean to you on a deeper level? Is it a sport, a lifestyle, or something else?

To me, surfing goes beyond just being a sport or lifestyle - it’s a full immersion experience. When you're in the water, completely focused on the rhythm of the ocean, everything else fades away, the noise, the stress, the worries. While it’s definitely a sport, it feels like so much more than that. For many surfers, it shapes how they approach challenges, connect with others, and even see the world.