How do I deal with localism when surfing?
Question: How do I deal with localism when surfing?
Localism is a timeless issue for surfers. You are always going to encounter folks who are ill-natures, spiteful, or aggressive in any sport; however, the custom of localism can be particularly nasty. Localism can range from getting stink eye from across the parking lot, getting your car broken into and vandalized, to outright violence. Don’t fret.
Localism isn’t what it one was, but it still exists and warrants some understanding.
Answer: First of all, no one owns the waves in a legal sense, so if you brought a group of local surfers before the judge, he would rule in your favor, but this ain’t “People’s Court” so you need to understand their frustration.
Most localism comes from a surf spot in a small area being overcrowded by surfers from other places, thus leaving very few waves for the local surfers to ride.
This resentment is legitimate but does not warrant violence; instead, the burden should be on the visiting surfer to be courteous and fair in the water. Understand that respecting the locals will insure that you will have a good session and maybe many more in the future. Heck, you may even make a friend.
1. So don’t travel to out of town breaks in large groups. There is nothing worse than seeing a car load of surfers arriving, thus bringing their own personal crowd.
2. Also, don’t paddle right out to the peak and start grabbing the best waves right away.
3. Treat the local beach with respect too. Don’t leave trash around.
4. Surf with a smile!
Localism is a timeless issue for surfers. You are always going to encounter folks who are ill-natures, spiteful, or aggressive in any sport; however, the custom of localism can be particularly nasty. Localism can range from getting stink eye from across the parking lot, getting your car broken into and vandalized, to outright violence. Don’t fret.
Localism isn’t what it one was, but it still exists and warrants some understanding.
Answer: First of all, no one owns the waves in a legal sense, so if you brought a group of local surfers before the judge, he would rule in your favor, but this ain’t “People’s Court” so you need to understand their frustration.
Most localism comes from a surf spot in a small area being overcrowded by surfers from other places, thus leaving very few waves for the local surfers to ride.
This resentment is legitimate but does not warrant violence; instead, the burden should be on the visiting surfer to be courteous and fair in the water. Understand that respecting the locals will insure that you will have a good session and maybe many more in the future. Heck, you may even make a friend.
1. So don’t travel to out of town breaks in large groups. There is nothing worse than seeing a car load of surfers arriving, thus bringing their own personal crowd.
2. Also, don’t paddle right out to the peak and start grabbing the best waves right away.
3. Treat the local beach with respect too. Don’t leave trash around.
4. Surf with a smile!
