But it was a chance encounter with the Australian legend Mark Richards at Safi in Morrocco in 2003 that changed my view on the sport, the industry and my future.
I paddled up to him and asked "So, Mark, you are in the best place to know, who is the best surfer in the world today?" He said "The guy who enjoys himself the most."
So my ambition for Big Jon's Surf Company, or 'BJ's' as it has become known, is a back to basics, economical and ethical business. To put the fun back into it. To remember the lifestyle, not just the sport. To make available proper custom, hand shaped boards. Using the best materials, at a price that will allow even the modest budgets to get in the water.
We all know people who have bought molded/pop out boards to get into the sport, and frankly, make you look and feel like a kook in the line up. Though these boards have got better, they never go as well as a real board, and somehow lack that magic and soul. These boards are an economical start, but you will want a proper board within a year and end up buying another board, hence spend more in the long run.
My boards are designed to rip. But are also designed to take the beginner right through to experts due to my use of foil, rail and a little V. They are built to last too, using only the latest and best materials on the market.
As a waterman, surfing is important, not what you ride. I ride shortboards, longboards, body boards and waveski's. This varied quiver of equipment has led me to a different perspective as to what makes the optimum shape. I have to say that Waveski's taught me a lot about design. From rail to rocker. To make a radical performance waveski, shape is more critical than a surfboard, and understanding and implementing some of these subtle but key elements are what I believe make my boards special. A board that performs well in all conditions, from two foot summer slop to those lucky days of big hollow glass. When I travel I take only one board, and it has to work, what ever the conditions.
As well as every board sold making a contribution to the 'South West Boxer Rescue', a charity (click the dog's face th see more detail) close to my heart, I will also continue with the BJ award. A free board to whom ever has shown the 'spirit of surfing' by doing or giving back to the community, and might not have the financial resorces to buy a new board. The 2008 award went to the talented surfer Richie Price, for his tireless and dedicated work for those with learning disabilities. Have a great summer ripping Pricey.
As I am often away, in the water and such - contact me on
07967990953
