Oswald Smith, AKA – Ozzie, is one of the sport’s undeniable chargers. Whether he’s slotting himself into a barrel or firing into megaloops, he never holds anything back in competition. A Cape Town native, he’s one of the most exciting riders to watch when the Red Bull King of the Air rolls into town and his infectious enthusiasm for Big-Air has seen him take the Best Trick award as well as some of the heaviest slams at that event across the last couple of years.

Hard-charging style aside though, he’s one of the most well-rounded riders in the sport and he’s more than capable of mixing it with the top riders at a wave event when he’s dialled in and things go his way in the early heats.

Age:
21
Nationality:
South African
Sponsors:
Airush, Billabong, Vonzipper
Home spot:
Cape Town
Years riding:
11
Best results:
3 x Vice Slalom World Champion, Vice Junior Freestyle World Champion, 5 x South African Champion, Red Bull King of the Air 2017 - Best Trick
Specialist discipline:
Big Air
Favourite spot:
Platboom, Cape Point
Favourite trick:
Shuvit 360
Favourite thing about competing on tour?:
I like how everybody pushes each other to new heights and the fact that you can measure yourself against the best riders in the world.
Standout moment 2017:
Mauritius this year was insane! I got some of the best waves of my life and rides that I will never forget. Memories for a lifetime that’s for sure!
Favourite competitors to ride against and watch:
I love riding against the best riders like Keahi and Matchu, not just because they push you to ride better, but the stoke levels on the water is always out of the roof. Its all about sharing the stoke and keeping the vibe alive, those are the heats that you will excel in.
2018 goals:
To get top five in one of the events.
How do you train?:
I feel like a good combination of mixed sports and exercise is the key to staying fit and on top form for competition. I gym almost everyday and mix the kiting up with sports such as surfing, stand up paddleboarding and wakeboarding.

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