Picked this up at a yardsale, I’m cleaning it up and doing some ding repairs on the bottom, then I’ll probably take it to the Ventura swap meet and sell it. The rear fin was broken off and re-attached (not by me), it feels strong, the pic looks a bit worse than it does in person, but there is no lump on the board, the patch has been sanded and blended nicely.
Nice find!
I did find it perplexing, i.e. 96 Blue Meanie.
A Russell “Blue Meanie” harkens back to reverse digits and “the Brortherhood” days.
Yes. The Blue Meanie was a transition model they did around 1968-69, after the Beatles movie came out. Thus the name and artwork based on that character. Funny to see it resurrected on a thruster.
The shaper is Al Dove.
Anyone have some stories or memories to share about Al?Worked with him on and off for about 5 years and have had many of his boards. Always eager to hear more. If anyone cares to know I’m glad to share. To be clear, I’m talking about the AL Dove from Oahu. He’s probably close to 70 now. Master craftsman at every step of the board process as well as molds/ tool making/ tool modifications/ and many, many other things. Big time roots that go from aipa, buttons, kaniapuni to MR’s cartoon airbrushes and more. Very, very interesting cat. He’s not a household name but I think he would quietly school many big name shapers. Ive worked in production glass shops for over 12 years and i have yet to meet or hear about someone half as meticulous. I could ramble on. A surfers journal article is deserved.