A very stoked Magoo gets “chaired” up the beach by fellow competitors. Screenshot: Dean Saffron
Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too old to surf. Like, no one. If they do, introduce them to Barry McGuigan, aka “Magoo.” Not only does he have the best nickname in surfing, but he may also be the oldest competitive surfer going right now. After his first wave in North Bondi in roughly 1944, he was hooked – as it goes for many.
Since then, he routinely checks the local breaks, receives inspiration and encouragement from his wife – “a real character” – and maintains a positive mental attitude, which sadly can’t be said for all surfers. An anomaly he sure is.
In one of his many events, he hit Makaha in 1963 for the Hawaiian Championships in pumping 20-foot waves, to which he remembers thinking, “Oh, what have I done?!” His first wave, he took off and headed less than gracefully for the flats in front of him (see below). Since then, he has entered plenty of events and, should his PMA be any indication, isn’t letting off the gas any time soon.
Magoo, going top to bottom at Makaha. The worst way possible. Screenshot: Dean Saffron
This clip explores Magoo’s perception of his involvement in surfing since the advent of the sport and the deeply personal ways in which surfing has shaped his life philosophy. Naturally unassuming, Magoo is a man of few words but his message is profound. And if you know of any older surfers still charging contests, let us know!
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