“There is a long-running event called Run to the Sun,” says Jim Bondi, “where everyone takes their VWs, classics and custom cars from London to Cornwall.
“I went down with a friend of mine in a Beetle in 1987, and we saw people surfing. Once I tried it, I was hooked – so hooked that I moved there soon after.” What is it about the surf that keeps him coming back for more?
“It keeps you fit, obviously, but besides that, it’s a good way of escaping everything else,” he smiles. “All you have to think about is the next wave, and how cold it’ll be! It’s you and the water. You feel very connected to nature.”
This connection extends beyond the sea to daily life, too, and the many friends Bondi has made through his hobby.
A long-time classic Volkswagen enthusiast, a 1987 road trip to Cornwall was transformative
This passion has led him to collect vintage surfboards, mainly from the ’70s – he prefers these over the longer ’60s boards: “I tend to look out for locally made ones.
“If a certain maker catches your eye, it can be interesting learning about its history. The designs are generally a lot brighter and more colourful as well.”
