Here's a shot of me by Jim Wileman, a North Devon-based snapper. It was taken for the FT Magazine's recent 'Better Skate Than Never' piece, and, at first blush, indicates that I am still, despite my advancing years, capable of the occasional display of athleticism.
Sadly, the truth is otherwise, especially right now. No sooner do I lament the extraordinary number of surfers in the water at one South Coast break on Monday than I come down with the flu. Not ManFlu but the proper, sweating, shivering, high performance flu that means that I won't be adding to the crowds for probably a week at least. I certainly won't be sparring with Sam Smart as planned for Friday night, because that'd be suicide (it's bad enough anyway, but with flu? No chance).
Talking of Sam, he was robbed in Gloucester the other night, and has the video evidence to prove it. He'll be back, but as for me, I'm putting my slippers on, making a Lemsip, and wondering if it's time to take up a new sport. Bowls, for example. Those white suits look splendid.
Know what you mean. I'm recovering from an infection of the digestive system which had to be in part caused by the weakening of my immune system through a recent over long session the week before which featured my longest hold-downs for a year.
Have you ever considered writing a piece for the FT on how the surf industry (eg East Coast Surf and FINs mag) is being hit by the current recession?
Posted by: Mark T | January 30, 2009 at 06:02 AM