My first close surf buddy was Steve Davis. We met on Pensacola Beach sometime around the summer of 1970 when we started surfing. He had a Hansen board and I had a Challenger Platypus. This was after the short board revolution so both of our boards were under 7’0”.
We went on our first big surf trip together – up to the Outer Banks, thanks to Hank and George Cobia, and their old Plymouth Valiant that made it there, and (almost) back. We went to Puerto Rico together. We drove to San Diego together, along with a few other friends. We did lots of stuff together, then went our separate ways, started families and careers, etc. Steve stepped away from the surf for awhile, but he’s been back for several years.
It hit me that we have known each other for over 50 years! When we met, that thought never occurred to me – would we still be friends in 50 years?
I guess it’s a result of getting older. I really appreciate those friendships I’ve had for decades.
What a gift!
The two photos below are from a surf contest at the Pensacola Pier approx. 1973. Steve is in the top photo surfing a heat with his ever-so-casual style. I’m the guy below waiting on the pier for my next heat.
I’m glad my mom made me wear sunscreen on my nose back then.