Think you’re too old to surf? Well think again. I recently had lunch with a good friend of mine from my newspaper days who is still surfing in his 80s. He says it’s harder to paddle into waves. Harder to get to his feet. Harder to get barreled. But guess what? None of it matters. He is still smiling after every wave. The secret? It’s about how surfing makes you feel.
Surfing is often perceived as a young person’s sport, dominated by images of sun-kissed athletes riding waves with seemingly boundless energy and agility. However, there exists a community of seasoned surfers who defy age stereotypes and continue to pursue their passion for riding waves well into their golden years. Here are a few stories of some of the oldest surfers in the world, whose resilience, determination, and love for the ocean serve as an inspiration to surfers of all ages.
Doug “Old Man” Brown (Age 96): Doug Brown, affectionately known as the “Old Man of the Sea,” is believed to be one of the oldest active surfers in the world. At the age of 96, Doug still paddles out into the waves near his home in California, embodying the spirit of adventure and vitality. Despite challenges such as declining vision and arthritis, Doug remains undeterred, finding solace and joy in the rhythm of the ocean. His dedication to surfing serves as a reminder that age is just a number and that passion knows no bounds.
Gwyn Haslock (Age 79): Gwyn Haslock, a pioneering figure in women’s surfing, continues to inspire surfers of all ages with her passion and tenacity. At 79 years old, Gwyn shows no signs of slowing down, regularly hitting the waves off the coast of Cornwall, England. With over six decades of surfing experience under her belt, Gwyn is a living legend in the surfing community, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes along the way. Her story serves as a testament to the enduring power of determination, resilience, and love for the ocean.
Ralph “Doc” LaMontagne (Age 94): Ralph LaMontagne, affectionately known as “Doc” among fellow surfers, is a beloved figure in the surfing community of Waikiki, Hawaii. At the age of 94, Doc continues to surf with grace and style, embodying the aloha spirit that defines Hawaiian surfing culture. Despite facing health challenges in recent years, including a battle with cancer, Doc remains committed to riding waves and sharing his passion for surfing with others. His unwavering optimism and love for the ocean inspire surfers of all ages to embrace life with courage and gratitude.
Joyce Hoffman (Age 76): Joyce Hoffman, a trailblazing figure in women’s surfing, has been riding waves for over six decades. At 76 years old, Joyce continues to surf with grace and elegance, serving as a role model for female surfers around the world. With numerous championships and accolades to her name, Joyce has left an indelible mark on the sport, paving the way for future generations of female surfers. Her dedication to surfing and her enduring passion for the ocean are a source of inspiration to surfers of all ages, reminding us that age is no barrier to greatness.
The stories of these remarkable surfers serve as a testament to the timeless appeal of surfing and the indomitable human spirit. Despite the passage of time and the challenges of aging, they continue to ride the waves with passion, grace, and enthusiasm. As we celebrate their achievements, let us remember that the true essence of surfing lies not in youth or athleticism, but in the joy of riding waves and the love of the ocean that connects us all.
Maybe we can make this list someday!
Nice glad to see this is working