I just got back from 2 months of South American rambling. Ran into a couple old friends along the way. Skip " Gringo Andres" and a board I shaped in 1979. The board has had a few repairs but it is still being used.
Hi Ace,
That must have been amazing to see the board still going strong, quality work.
What did you choose to ride most while you were there?
That board has a lot less volume than your current rides so I’m guessing you didn’t take it for a victory lap?!
I rode a 8’er that is kind of a new direction for me. I have a small collection of boards in my little town from 6’-8" to 8’. I ended up using the new one all the time. I am going to be making one for here as soon as Ken from Segway gets my blanks cut. I have to get reaclimated going from 80 degree water to 54 is kinda tough.
Awesome work man, probably feels pretty good to know that board has held up so well through all the years. Ive had a couple boards break on me in 1-2 seshions in South America!
Nice looking board Ace Hope you had a good time down in South America.
Looks like the board may have held up better than me.
As we used to say - back in the day
Hang in there Ace, man you’re far out!
Mahalo, Rich Sanders
~ foiling a natural edge for those halcyon days ~
must have made ya feel good to see the board and to know its still giving joy to surfers.....good stuff
THat's awesome ace. Is it solid/chambered balsa??
Skip started a whole little surf industry in Ecuador. All the guys pretty much make em the same way. “Kook box” construction.
Did you shape any on this last trip down There?
Nope. Spent everyday surfing laying in the hammock eating and playing with baby burrows.
Ace,
Did it have the 3 fins on it when you built it in 79?
No I don’t think so. More than likely it was a twin.