Damien Fahrenfort

Tall, handsome, and undeniably talented, Damien Fahrenfort has been called the “surf industry’s renaissance man.” Sponsored by Billabong and Quiksilver, Damien was a top competitor in the World Surf League from 2006-11 and placed third at the Copa Quiksilver surf contest.

Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, Damien was among the first children to go to integrated schools after Nelson Mandela was released from prison and elected president. “There are important lessons from that time that I’ll never forget,” Fahrenfort says. “South Africa is still dealing with racism and inequality to this day.” This background, combined with his humility and natural charm, gives Damien a sensitivity as a host that allows viewers to see California and its beach culture in a whole new light.

In 2009, at the request of his sponsor, Billabong, Fahrenfort moved to California. As his pro surfing career neared its end, Damien reinvented himself and became a film producer, journalist, and athlete manager. Today, he coaches and manages some of the best surfers on the planet including seventh-ranked Olympic qualifier, Jordy Smith. Fahrenfort also started a popular podcast called Dooma’s Rumors. Known for his “tell it like it is” style and infectious enthusiasm, Damien has become one of the most popular voices in the surfing industry.