I have noted previously that many commentators feel that it will be enterprising, innovative activity that pulls the UK economy out of recession, and that furthermore that there is currently no better time to change, with the normal barriers and resistance much lower (see Grasp the opportunities in a recession).  Indeed, I see that Cisco are leading with a call to arms “There’s never been a better time to change. To find new ways to innovate. New ways to collaborate. New ways to thrive.” All sentiments I would concur with.

 

But those of us who are looking to push the boundaries and explore new areas, innovate or break the mould, know that there is resistance to change from some and scepticism from others. It is important then to seek motivation and inspiration to make the bold steps. Often I find that in stories of others….so it was great to discover the truly inspiring story of Jeff Clark surfing Mavericks alone for 15 years long years.

 

For those who don’t know surfing Mavericks is the huge break off Pillar Point Harbour, Northern California that often reaches 25-30’ in height and the break where the ledgendary Mark Foo wiped out and sadly died. Picture a storm lashed UK beach with 6 foot waves and quadruple it to get the scale and power of Mavericks.

 

From the 60s onwards, as surfing and big wave surfing took off, Mavericks was deemed to be unsurfable and too dangerous, but in 1975 Jeff Clark, a local lad, alone, went out and made it.

 

No one would follow, no one was interested – so for 15 lonely years he ploughed on. Alone he innovated, as you need to do to progress, learning to surf switch-foot (left or right foot forward), building a bigger, wider board, which was still manoeuvrable. Until finally, he persuaded a couple of out of town guys to try it…and then the flood gates opened….the story of Mavericks was out….and it become one of the Meccas of the surfing circuit, as good as anything on the north shore of Hawaii. The legend of Jeff Clark – Maverick man was born.

 

An inspiring story – look it up.

 

 

 

Neil Anderson

MD, Qcom

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