Nollie: Rad reading: how surf ettiquette can save your life

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July 25, 2008 3:02 PM

Rad reading: how surf ettiquette can save your life

Surf_ettiquette_girls_guide

Need to brush up on your board riding manners? Then learn by heart the top ten rules of surf etiquette, written by Me-Shell Mijangos of SwellWomen surf camps, currently on Girls Learn To Ride. Her nuggets of polite wisdom are just as precious inland as in the sea. Here's her top five for a taster:-

Rule 1. No Dropping In.
“Dropping in” in on another surfer is one of the worst surfing crimes you can commit. Dropping in is where there is a surfer on a wave already and you hop up on the wave in front of her. If there is a surfer on a wave already, the wave is hers, unless she falls off her surfboard or pulls out of the wave.

This surf etiquette rule reminds us that in life we should respect and honor other people’s choices in their life’s purpose. As long as others are safe and not harming others, we should not get in front of them and take their dream (waves). Allow each person to choose her life’s path and enjoy her ride. Everyone deserves the passage of a smooth journey to arrive at his or her dream destination.

2. Wait Your Turn.
Everyone is waiting for the waves, not just you. You need to be able to share the waves with everyone else. Being selfish will not win you any respect out in the ocean, or anywhere else for that matter.
Being aware of your place in the queue in your journey for anything is a great life skill. Don’t jump in front of others and snatch what is rightfully theirs.

3. Don’t Get Out of Your Depth.
You should know and accept your own limitations. If you are not fit enough or experienced enough to surf 15-foot waves, don’t go out there. If the waves are too big for you, watch from the shore.
It’s much the same in the real world: We all need to realize our limitations. Some of these we can work on and, over time, become more accomplished. As in surfing, it is smart to start off small and work your way up to the bigger stuff.

4. Respect the Locals.
If you are surfing someplace new, take a few minutes to observe the scene before paddling straight out. The locals are entitled to surf their local break, as are visitors.
We all know the saying “When in Rome…” Respect for local customs is important in all walks of life. Traveling the world shows everyone the huge differences there can be in various local traditions. Visitors should always be mindful that locals might have vastly differing viewpoints to their own. Be tolerant of others’ beliefs and customs — we are all entitled to our own views. Respecting others will garner respect for yourself.

5. Keep Control.
Your surfboard can be a potential lethal weapon when out of control. No one wants to wear a surfboard in the head or face. Your surfboard is very heavy and usually has a sharp point. Combine this with a powerful surge of water and you get the picture.
In life’s journey you need to be responsible for yourself and your well-being. Take control of your emotions and health for a smoother, longer ride. It goes without saying: The healthier you are in all aspects of your life, the more enjoyable your life will be.

via Girls Learn To Ride
Images: courtesy of Roxy Jam 2008, Biarritz

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