Big wave surfer, Al Mennie has joined tow-in partner Andrew Cotton, and Aussie hell-man Kirby Brown as part of the West surfing team. Gaining notoriety as a pioneer of Irelands budding big wave scene, Mennie has made a name for himself as a fully committed, fearless member of the international big wave circuit.

One of just two European surfers to be nominated for selection into Quiksilvers Eddie Aikau memorial event, Mennie also figured in the infamous 2007/2008 Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards. Mennie and teammate Andrew Cotton are currently Europes most successful tow team, receiving invites to the coveted APT international tow surfing circuit, which takes place at such monumental big wave spots as Chiles Punta de Lobos and the legendary Jaws in Maui.

Pete Bush of West Europe said, Its a great honour to have Al join the West team; he is an incredibly dedicated surfer who has earned his stripes through total commitment and action. He has a unique presence within the sport and is a truly distinguished representative for surfing in Ireland.

Als deal reflects the recent boom in big wave surfing in Ireland, which has seen spots such as the epic Aisleens draw the collective attention of the surfing world, being featured in two of 2009s most eagerly awaited surf films, Waveriders and Powers of Three.