In the early-’80s, Wingnut slipped in through
the service entrance via appearances in regional club events. Now, it’s
as if he was always a part of the surfing community. This effect can
be explained away in part by his accomplished noseriding and general
watermanship. His artful longboarding is taken straight from the movie
projectors of Bud Browne and Bruce Brown; there’s some Phil Edwards
in his attack, a dose of Hynson in his nonchalance, and no small measure
of Mark Martinson when he’s in the pocket.
But the wave riding is hardly the whole story. Wingnut loves to be
the center of attention. A natural jester, he lives for the chance to
blow minds with his off-color humor, well-timed jibes, and all-purpose
goofiness. These talents, combined with a keen head for business, have
allowed him to build an enviable life as a professional surfer. The
best part? He doesn’t even have to surf contests.
Robert has a skill set that is rare in the pro surf world. A strong
work ethic, a university degree, and a mad desire to live a full life
place him outside the ranks. Throughout his ascendancy, he’s made
a favorable impression on just about everyone he’s dealt with.
Friends and competitors alike bow before his energy; Wingnut has the
capacity to make a so-so day memorable…
- Scott Hulet extract
from Surf History |
