武知 実波 Minami Takechi
Professional surfer, surf guide, and director of The Minami in Anami-cho, Tokushima
Bio
Born in Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture, Minami started surfing at the age of nine after being influenced by her parents, who run a surf shop. She was selected as a member of Japan's junior national team for four consecutive years from the age of 13. In 2011, she debuted as a pro surfer on the Japan Professional Surfing Association (JPSA) Tour and won the Rookie of the Year award. During university and graduate school, she balanced her research activities with competing on both domestic and international tours. At the University of Tokushima, she founded a surfing club, which is rare in Japan. After competing on overseas tours, she is currently working to promote the appeal of surfing as a Patagonia Surfing Ambassador and sightseeing ambassador for Anan city.
Message
Surfing is a unique sport that allows you to become one with nature and feel the call of nature with your whole body. For beginners, I would like to offer a successful experience of riding a wave in a day. For intermediate and advanced surfers, I will give you tips on how to improve your skills. Let's enjoy together the beautiful and precious nature that remains in Shikoku, Tokushima, and Anan.
Guide Q&A
Q: What is your most memorable experience in nature?
The moment when, while surfing in the local ocean, the wind stopped blowing and the surface of the water reflected like glass and I felt like I was floating in the sky. It was the feeling of becoming one with nature. I'll never forget that.
Q: What does nature represent to you?
An irreplaceable part of me, like family.
Q: What has nature taught you?
Nature is what we cannot resist.
Q: What do you hope that people will get out of experiences with you as a guide?
If my guests become aware of the value of the ocean and nature through surfing, and if they develop a love for irreplaceable nature and a passion for conserving its beauty, then I will be happy.
Highlights
・ Pro surfer of Japan Pro Surfing Association (JPSA) ・ Patagonia Surfing Ambassador ・ Ambassador for Surfrider Foundation Japan ・ Sightseeing Ambassador for Anan city ・ Member of the Judge Committee of Nippon Surfing Association (NSA) ・ Licensed to teach junior high school and high school English ・ Director of The Minami ・ Languages: Japanese, English
