
Jethro Keys started waveski surfing only three years ago — completely by coincidence — when he visited Big Bay Beach for the first time. It just so happened coach Ken Clements was hosting a beginners’ clinic that day. Jethro took the opportunity to try it out, and, as they say, the rest is history.
Since then, he’s racked up a South African Waveski Junior Surfing Title, competed in World Titles events, and most recently received his South African national colours.
Fast forward to the present — this young go-getter has caught the attention of the waveski world and is now set to depart for Lacanau, France, for a three-month training programme with none other than world-renowned Pablo Arrouays.
Not only will Jethro work on his personal skills, but he’ll also be learning key coaching techniques, club governance, and how to run and develop a waveski surfing school — all part of the reason why the CKLG Waveski Club is a world leader. Home to several world title holders, the club trains everyone from able-bodied to disabled surfers, and it’s the best place to learn what waveski is truly about.
Jethro plans to return to Cape Town and implement at his own club what he’s learned — bringing it full circle to where his journey began.
Jethro credits his biggest waveski highlight to Pablo:
“My most memorable moment this sport brought me was when I met Pablo Arrouays. I’ll never forget how amazed I was by the level of skill he and the other French riders had. It was — and still is — a major source of my inspiration.”
Having recently placed 4th in the U21 at the World Waveski Titles, Jethro is dreaming big:
“I hope to become World Champion one day and, hopefully, be remembered as the GOAT boat rider from Cape!”
Well, with his mentor being multiple South African Champion and Big Wave Surfer Mike Wessels, we have no doubt that Jethro has what it takes to grab every opportunity and chase his dream of becoming a World Champion — and an inspiration to many that nothing can hold you back.
From the South African Waveski Association and all its members, we wish Jethro an incredible trip! We’re proud of his tenacity and sportsmanship. Fly our flag high in France — and we can’t wait to hear all about it when you return.

