Posted by Rick Civelli | 11.09.2010 | Employment, WB Surf Camp News

WB Surf Camp Instructor of the Week for November 7th: Rusty Ingold-Smith

If you have never met Rusty Ingold-Smith, then I surely hope that you do! Rusty is the guy with the boundless energy who makes you wonder where in the world he gets it from. Which makes him the PERFECT Director of our Guppy Ocean Safety Adventure Camp! Rusty was incredible in his role as leader of weekly groups of twelve 6-10 year old kids, and boy did those kids love him! His love for the ocean and the outdoors got the guppies even more excited than they already were for camp, and his mature, responsible demeanor put parents minds at ease. Rusty came to WB Surf Camp in the summer of 2010 as a graduate of UNC-Wilmington with a degree in Parks and Recreation. One very cool thing about Rusty is his skill at ultimate frisbee. He was the president for three years of the UNCW Ultimate Frisbee Team and was considered one of the best players in the country. Rusty moved to New Hampshire after Guppy Camp season ended and has just recently taken a job with Burton Snowboards. We know Rusty will make an exceptional impression on people wherever life takes him!

1. What drew you to a position at WB Surf Camp? I was drawn to Surf Camp because I witnessed the positive aspects that they teach about, between the people, the ocean, and the environment.

2. Who is your favorite surfer and why? Shane Dorian- first pro I ever saw surf in person, and I was blown away. I also have a lot of respect for Dave Rastovich for being so proactive in protecting the ocean and marine wildlife.

3. When did you start surfing and where? When my parents wanted a good laugh they took me to a surf camp in Virginia Beach, VA. I had no idea what I was doing, but I was a stubborn little bugger…

4. What is your favorite surf break? I got the chance to surf Table Top in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, just off the USCG base Borinquen, while I was working there. Scary exposed reef, but very fun rides.

5. What inspired you to start surfing? I grew up snowboarding, living right next to a mountain, and that was a great way to connect to nature and my surroundings. When I moved to NC, I knew I had to try surfing since I loved being in the water and grew up riding boards.

6. Where was your most memorable session? Camping on Masonboro with some buddies over the summer, we watched the sunrise at 6 AM or so, all totally shocked at how big the sun looked that day. Then we all paddled out to shoulder high sets, and super fun waves. It was unreal, and I don’t imagine it will ever happen again.

7. What is the worst wipeout you’ve ever had? Table Top had a nasty reef bottom; I rode a wave in and aired to bail- unfortunately landing feet first in four feet of water. Luckily some guys from the base where there and helped me patch my foot up, and I had a nice story to tell my boss why I couldn’t work the next day.

8. What are some of your interests outside of surfing? Hanging out with my dog Kona, and girlfriend Lauren.

9. What is your favorite movie? Have you ever seen Surf Ninjas!? One of Rob Schneider’s first roles ever. Instant classic.

10. What is your favorite music? Duh, Jason Andre. Check him out! But seriously, you should.

11. What is your favorite food? Black beans and rice.

12. Where do you see yourself in five years? Well after I win the lottery for a record breaking seven times in a row, I will retire to my multi-million dollar mansion overlooking WB access #4. The house will include a separate parking area only for WB Surf Camp employees, and the quiver in the garage will make you cry for joy.

13. In your eyes, the three things you value most are: Friends, the earth, and my dog.