In a tale that combines daring feats and the allure of the ocean, Linde Werdelin proudly welcomes Antonio Laureano, affectionately known as Tony, into our family of explorers. Hailing from the picturesque Nazaré in Portugal, Tony is a young Portuguese big wave surfer, who captivates hearts with his extraordinary skills and unyielding devotion to conquering the colossal waves.
At Linde Werdelin, our belief in quality over quantity shapes our approach. We curate a select group of explorers who embody our values. Joining alongside Leo Houlding and Jacques de Vos, Tony adds a particular facet to our family of explorers.
Leo Houlding, one of the world’s most accomplished free climbers and explorer par excellence has been an LW explorer since 2007. Recently returned from yet another adventure, this time free climbing the 4,000 ft Mount Asgard in Canada, Leo has worked with us for 16 years and continues to embody the spirit of adventure at Linde Werdelin.
Jacques de Vos, a self-taught, world-renowned freediver, and an award-winning underwater photographer, has been a longstanding collaborator with Linde Werdelin. His endeavors in testing the Oktopus family of diving watches in extreme ocean conditions, at significant depths and chilling temperatures, is testament to his contribution to LW.
Linde Werdelin’s decision to welcome a young big wave surfer, such as Antonio Laureano, as a new LW explorer is rooted in our profound admiration for those who willingly embrace extreme challenges. Big wave surfers like Tony display superhuman courage, facing the enormous power of the ocean, where the stakes are literally their lifes.
Riding massive waves at Nazaré or elsewhere in the World can be likened to skiing on the treacherous slopes of the Matterhorn or Mont Blanc – there is no room for error. It is akin to skiing with an avalanche hot on your heels, where a single misstep can prove disastrous. These individuals inspire us with their extraordinary feats and unwavering determination.
Tony’s connection with the waves began at the tender age of four – he is now 21. Since then, he has dedicated his life to the art of surfing, earning accolades and recognition for his pursuit of mastering the ocean’s mightiest swells. His journey into the heart of the sea has been nothing short of extraordinary.
At 15 years old, he made history by becoming the youngest nominee for the WSL XXL Big Wave Awards in The Biggest Wave category. His trajectory only soared from there, as he continued to conquer ever larger waves, never allowing fear to impede his audacious spirit.
In 2020, Antonio’s name resounded across the globe as he tackled what was claimed to be a towering 101.4-foot wave at Praia do Norte in Nazaré, Portugal. If confirmed, this monumental feat will etch his name in surfing annals as the surfer of the largest wave in history.
Tony acknowledges that fear is an integral part of his craft. He reveals, “Fear for a big wave surfer is essential. It keeps us focused and aware of the potential risks, preparing us for whatever may come.”
“I first experienced big wave surfing when I visited Nazaré in November 2021. I was, and continue to be, awed by the sheer skill and daring this small group of big wave surfers exhibit,” says Jorn Werdelin, owner and co-founder of Linde Werdelin. “This sentiment resonates deeply with the adventurous spirit that both Tony and we embody”.
“It is an honor to be a part of the Linde Werdelin family. I have always dreamed of working with a brand that embodies this kind of spirit. Personally, I feel like an explorer because the sea is a natural element with so much to learn and discover. There’s a very special relationship there,” Tony Laureano reflects, his words capturing the essence of his journey and the shared vision with Linde Werdelin.
