Surfer rides the wave to success
The Warner Beach resident’s message to young surfers is to make sure their equipment is right for them, respect the experienced older surfers in and out of the water and surf as much as possibly can, this will improve stamina.
Surf enthusiast, Grant van der Linde, has dedicated his life to pursue his passion. The 45-year-old surfboard designer and manufacturer began surfing when he was a teenager and has never looked back since.
Speaking to the SUN, Grant said, “Once you have your equipment, you are good to go there are no charges, no entrance fees. It is just you, the ocean, and all its wonders to enjoy. It is also very good to see in the last year or two how many youngsters are back on the beach enjoying the outside again.”
He takes inspiration from others who support and educate aspiring surfers and when asked what his most memorable moment has been he said, “There are too many to mention, from perfect sunrises with dolphins and good waves with some of your best mates, to competitive goals achieved. It is a lifestyle not only a sport and the memorable moments are every day.”
Over the years, he has managed to accumulate a few highlights including, touring with the Rip Curl Search Team in the late nineties and having sponsorship from Peter Daniels, Quicksilver, Oakley. At 15-years-old, he went on his first surf trip to the Reunion Islands. He also consistently topped two regional competitions from Boys u15 right to current ranking at the moment, pre lockdown, masters Division 1 and an open division 2. He also scooped a victory at the final of the opens 1995 SA Champs at Nahoon.
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When asked how he feels about being unable to surf due to the lockdown, he said, “it is ridiculous! I can understand overcrowding on beaches is a problem. But, local authorities just handled the situation like outsiders.”
The Warner Beach resident’s message to young surfers is to make sure their equipment is right for them, respect the experienced older surfers in and out of the water and surf as much as possibly can, this will improve stamina. Grant is married to charlene for the past 20 years and hey have two daughters, Kyra, 18 and Roxy, 16. His hobbies include shaping, drumming, photography and getting the most out of life.
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