Keely Andrew started surfing at the age of eight and has now made a career out of her ability in the sport.

KEELY ANDREW started surfing at the age of eight with the guidance of her dad and brothers. She has gone on to excel in the sport and has made a career out of her abilities on the waves.

In this exclusive interview Keely talks to us about her success in surfing to date and where in the world the sport has taken her. Read on to find out about her ambition to be the world’s best and how she intends to get there.

When did you start surfing and who encouraged you to give the sport a go?

I started surfing when I was eight years old. My two older brothers were probably the ones that had the biggest influence on me at that young age to start surfing. I always wanted to do what my brothers did and so I followed them down the surfing road.

Where did you grow up and what kind of opportunities did it give you to surf?

I was born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Growing up my home town gave me endless opportunities to surf. The general vibe of the place is enough to make anyone want to spend all day everyday at the beach. We mainly have beach breaks that are easily accessible and are perfect to learn how to surf. There’s also more challenging point breaks and a few reef breaks so you can push yourself in all conditions. Very much so the perfect playground to be in.

Keely grew up on Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, where she had plenty of opportunities to surf on a daily basis.

What have been your biggest achievements in surfing to date?

My biggest achievements are: first at Port Taranaki Pro, New Zealand WQS; first at El Salvador Impressionante Pro, WQS; second at El Salvador Impressionante Pro, WQS; second at U18 Australian Junior Surfing Titles, 2010; Australasian Pro Junior Champion 2013; fifth at US Open of Surfing WCT; and fifth at Oi Rio Pro, WCT.

Tell us about the phenomenal success you are currently having and how our readers can follow your progress?

I wouldn’t say it’s phenomenal success as such, I’ve just been able to collect enough points and make a few heats to keep my dream alive.

You can follow my progress on the WSL website or check out my social media and website. Instagram is @keelyandrew, Facebook Keely Andrew and my website is keelyandrew.com. Find me on Twitter at keelyandrewsurf.

Who do you look up to most in the surfing community?

I look up to Stephanie Gilmore, Sally Fitzgibbons, Coco Ho, Mick Fanning and Julian Wilson. I have always looked up to these surfers and draw inspiration from them. It’s very surreal now to have them as friends and even family on tour.

Keely has the ambition to make it into the Top 10 on the World Tour Ratings next year.

What are you currently training for and what are your plans and ambitions for 2017 and beyond?

Currently I’m training for next year and every year after that. Every heat I surf I’m learning something new. In the gym and in the surf I’m putting in the time to better myself as a person and athlete. It’s not just the next year I’m focusing on but also my future. My plans and ambitions are to finish in the Top 10 on the World Tour Ratings as well as to keep on growing and learning.

Stop press:  Keely has just finished 3rd in the Maui Pro which is her best WCT result so far. She knocked out Sally Fitzgibbons and Stephanie Gilmore. Plus re-qualified for the WCT next season.