I’ve been trying to learn how to surf now for around thirty years. I like to surf. No. Let’s take that a step further. I love to surf. Do I call myself a surfer? No. A surfer is an athlete who has acquired a specific qualifying level of competence and skill at the act of surfing. I am one person who has not achieved that requisite standard... but, despite loving the act of … [Read more...]
Toxic style
Surfing is a unique sport. It can be so enthralling… so enchanting… so addictive… that, for some surfers, it can go beyond pleasurable and become a toxic experience damaging relationships, families, career, and even health. Sociologists have called this phenomenon as going past the “stoke apex”. These surfers have become victims of what journalist William Finnegan described as … [Read more...]
Seven deadly sins of sports sartorialism and style.
There are hundreds of fashion choices that look ridiculous, foolish, horrible and offensive in a sporting context but seven particular style choices brand the "sinner" almost beyond redemption. Socrates smugly sticks his massive nose in the air and points the finger of sartorial disgrace at the "sins" he finds most hideous. Sin No. 1 Boardshorts are for boards. If … [Read more...]
“Oh, the times they are a changing… ” – Surfing in style
No sport has had more influence on contemporary fashion and style than surfing. Arguably basketball has impacted on street wear somewhat as well. Perhaps baseball a teensy bit too. Of course soccer shirts have long been somewhat of a fashion statement. Golf and tennis, on the other hand, have had no impact what so ever on contemporary fashion... that is unless you are a golfer … [Read more...]
Thursday, January 19 – Sports Centre – Hoopsters couldn’t look any better…
Hoopsters were out in force at the sports centre again last Thursday... yet again proving that when it comes to best-dressed athletes, basketball has it over the rest. Who cares if you can't jump. It's style that really counts. That being said, most of this lot can jump. And shoot. And dribble. And … [Read more...]