my Surfing journey
The influence
I was born in Malta immersed and surrounded by the sea during my early childhood years. Going swimming snorkelling and repeatedly being lifted and thrown into waves by my dad. It was always fun times, little did I know that one day I would be lucky enough to look at waves in a totally different way and even ride them.
The journey
Beginning
in late fall of 72 my future brother-in-law who lived in Cornwall offered to take me to Red River Hayle to try surfing. Fairly breezy onshore 2ft cloudy conditions greeted us but undeterred, Richard gave me the basics and showed how to lay on the board, paddle, turn around, catch a wave and finally how you stand up. It was then over to me with a couple of mishaps I eventually stood up and rode in a straight line to the beach, I continued of the next half an hour until the cold and numbness set in as I was only wearing shorts and a rugby shirt.
We retreated to the fire in a local pub and while sipping a pint all that was running through my mind was….I have to do this again and so my Surfing Journey had Begun.
The difference
Travel
surfing in countries as wonderful as Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Gambia, Kenya, Malta, Gibraltar, France, Spain, Portugal, Bali, Peru, Puerto Rico, Canary Islands & Morocco and not to forget our home nations Wales, Scotland, Ireland & England. I consider myself as being extremely fortunate especially during the uncrowded 70s 80s…
The journey
Competition
Over 53 years from that complete novice to being sponsored surfer competing in professional competitions to representing Cornwall..England & Great Britain in International Competitions, was a long journey with massive highs & lows …but I totally enjoyed and still enjoy the ride!
I was lucky enough to win 37 titles…16 English…13 British…1 European…
5th place at ISA World Masters Peru 2009 & 7th place at ISA World Masters in Puerto Rico 2007
9th Euro Pro 1982, reached round of 44 ASP Newquay 1983 & 84
Cornish & Open…Surf to Save…Jesus Surf
The influence
IMMERSION
I would like to thank all who have encouraged & supported my journey throughout the years. With their help I learnt to believe in myself.
Snugg Wetsuits
Reef Footwear & Clothing
Soloman Footwear
Hawian Island Creation Surfboards & clothing
Bodyglove Wetsuits & Clothing
Vitamin Sea Surfboards
Hott Surfboards & Wetsuits