Cape Town’s Jethro Keys, a rising waveski talent, is heading to France for elite training under world champion Pablo Arrouays, proving that with passion and perseverance, every wave is a chance to rise.
Cape Town, South Africa (19 June 2025) – It all began with a chance encounter. Three years ago, Jethro Keys visited Big Bay Beach for the very first time, unaware that his life was about to change. Coach Ken Clements just happened to be hosting a beginners’ waveski clinic that day, and Jethro, ever-curious, gave it a go. He hasn’t looked back since.
Today, Jethro is a South African Waveski Junior Surfing Champion, a national colours recipient, and a World Titles competitor. And now, he’s preparing for his biggest adventure yet, a three-month training programme in Lacanau, France, under the mentorship of world-renowned waveski legend Pablo Arrouays.
But this journey is about more than refining his skills on the water. At CKLG Waveski Club, home to multiple world title holders and known for its inclusive approach to coaching, Jethro will be learning everything from high-performance technique to coaching strategy, club management, and the ins and outs of running a successful waveski school.
His mission? To return to Cape Town equipped not only with next-level ability but the knowledge to uplift his community and strengthen his local club, paying forward the inspiration that first lit his spark.
“My most memorable moment this sport brought me was when I met Pablo Arrouays,” says Jethro. “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.”
That inspiration has driven him to place 4th in the U21 category at the World Waveski Titles — and to dream bigger than ever:
“I hope to become World Champion one day and, hopefully, be remembered as the GOAT boat rider from Cape!”
With multiple SA Champion and Big Wave Surfer Mike Wessels in his corner as mentor, and his own raw talent and drive, Jethro’s star is clearly on the rise.
The South African Waveski Association couldn’t be prouder.
“We wish Jethro an incredible trip. His tenacity and sportsmanship are unmatched — and we can’t wait to welcome him back and see all he’s learned,” the Association shared.
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So here’s to chasing dreams, taking chances, and making waves, from Big Bay to Lacanau, and beyond.
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