Fuerteventura surfer Kamiel Deraeve wins Big Wave Challenge in Los Angeles

The young rider who competes under the Belgian flag—his parents’ nationality—has become a benchmark for island surfing.

Kamiel Deraeve, the surf prodigy who persuaded his parents to trade the calm waters of the North Sea in Oostduinkerke for the fierce Atlantic surrounding Fuerteventura, has just captured the Young Gun award at the Big Wave Challenge in Los Angeles.

The Belgian‑born surf sensation reached this milestone in a prestigious international competition in the United States. At just 13 years old, Deraeve—who now lives on the island—has plunged into the demanding world of big‑wave contests, this time on the California coast.

Almost a year ago, in November, we already highlighted Kamiel’s daring ride on the massive Nazare wave in Portugal. The Belgian youngster’s determination and skill have drawn widespread attention, especially for his ability to handle huge, powerful waves, boosting his popularity in the global surf community.