Contestant Biography

HOMETOWN: Jacksonville Beach, Florida

AGE: 26

Austin Clouse grew up in Ormond Beach, Florida, and lived across the street from the ocean. He was taught to surf at the age of 5 by his brother and spent as much time as he could surfing with the kids in the neighborhood. Clouse remained passionate about surfing throughout high school but it wasn't until he graduated that he began competing, quickly winning his first local pro contest. From there he moved to Jacksonville and then California, where he lived in Huntington Beach, working to pursue his surfing dream. Tragically, his father was diagnosed with cancer which led to Clouse moving back home to Florida. After his dad's passing, Clouse returned to Jacksonville, which he now calls home. With renewed dedication, lots of hard work and the support of his hometown, he continues to chase his surfing dream.