Petroc Launches Surf Life Saving Academy Led by Nick Thorn

Petroc is excited to announce the launch of the brand new Surf Life Saving Academy, developed in collaboration with Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) and Surf Life Saving Devon. This high-performance training programme is designed for young athletes aged 16-19 looking to excel in surf lifesaving and competitive surf sports.

The academy boasts world-class coaching led by professional surf coach and former British Surf Champion, Nick Thorn. With an impressive resume that includes  nine British SLS Surf Iron Man Championship titles as well as being ranked 3rd in the world for Surf Iron Man (2001), Nick brings elite coaching and international experience to the programme. Nick is also a qualified lifeguard trainer and assessor, founder of Nick Thorn Surf Coaching, and has collaborated with RNLI Lifeguard Training and Elite Athlete Development.

The academy provides aspiring lifesavers and athletes with the opportunity to train at some of Devon’s best beaches, including Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe. Through expert mentorship and professional coaching, participants will enhance their athletic performance, build rescue skills, develop ocean awareness, and work toward valuable surf lifesaving qualifications.

After completing a trial, all athletes accepted into the programme will receive six hours of professional coaching per week at local beaches and training facilities as well as regular competitive events in surf lifesaving. Ocean safety, first aid and CPR training as well as opportunities for SLSGB awards and qualifications.

This new Surf Life Saving Academy is setting a brand new standard for surf lifesaving training, providing young athletes with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities to pursue careers in lifeguarding, competitive surf sports, and ocean-based professions.