GLEN GOWER RETURNED TO SURFING ON HIS DOCTOR’S ADVICE. AT THE AGE OF 61, HE’S ON THE LONGBOARD AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE AND HIS FITNESS HAS NEVER BEEN BETTER.
Glen has always been a keen surfer and now as president of the Noosa Malibu Club, he is encouraging more over-50s to join him out on the waves.
“It’s great exercise that helps strengthen your core muscles,” said Glen, who runs a wall and floor tiling business. I surfed quite a lot when I was younger but hadn’t been on the board in years so when I went to my doctor for treatment for my bad back, he told me to return to surfing and now my back has never felt better.”
His surfboard of choice is the longboard, and he recommends it for people who are looking to surf for the first time.
“I’d always ridden shortboards, but I switched to longboards to suit the surf here in Noosa which can be quite seasonal,” said Glen. “I was getting frustrated waiting for those perfect conditions. Using a Malibu means waves are easier to catch, you can surf longer and during more times of the year.
“I started riding longboards 12 years ago, and I haven’t looked back. And it’s more than just the physical fitness. Every time I go out for a surf, I feel better, I clear my head and feel really good for the rest of the day.”
Music and films of the 1960s depicted surfing as a youth culture phenomenon but in fact, anyone can take part at any age. The Noosa Festival of Surfing, proudly sponsored by GemLife, hosts a division called ‘Wrecks and Relics’ for the over 50s which has grown over the years.
“When the Noosa Festival of Surfing started 30 years ago, there was discussion about whether to have a category for surfers over the age of 60. We have an over-75s category now,” said Glen.
“Our oldest male competitors are over 75 years old, and our oldest female competitors are over 70. In fact, last year we had 14 competitors in the over-75s age bracket.”
One of Glen’s favourite events at the Noosa Festival of Surfing is the family competition.
“You team up with a member of your family to compete, but you must be at least one generation apart. I surf with my daughter who’s 21 and she’s highly competitive on the water. I have to remind her that we’re on the same team and she’s supposed to be competing with me and not against me,” he said with a laugh.
“It’s also a great way to connect with different generations. Whether you’re 12 or 75, you’ve got something in common.”
You don’t have to be a lifelong surfer to enjoy life on the waves. Glen says that the longboard is ideal for first-time surfers.
“Yes, it can be a little awkward to get to the beach, but once you’re there, you’ll have so much fun,” he said. “Get out there and give it a go – you won’t get hurt, unlike playing other sports, and it’s great for your mental health too.”
GemLife is once again proud to partner with the Noosa Festival of Surfing to be held next month. The event, now in its 33rd year has become one of the largest surf gatherings in the world.
The nine-day event starts on Friday, 8 March and features surfers from all over the world. This all-ages event has become a favourite with both young novice surfers and more seasoned veterans alike.