We get no respect.
We lifelong lower-to-middle intermediates, we surfers know the immense joy but also frustration of our “sport of kings.” Nailing a pop up that don’t automatically guaranteed a poor line straight away, for example, or a bottom turn that doesn’t drain forward momentum. Getting the knees properly bent, shoulders open on a wrap-around carve already filled with hitches. Racing too far out front. Getting gobbled for being too slow.
Etc.
Surfing doesn’t generally feel easy but, apparently, it is.
For ESPN, the “worldwide leader in sports,” has just released its definitive list of “sport ranked by degree of difficulty” and where do you think our watery dance lands?
Third after Brazilian jiu-jitsu?
Fifth after Australian Rules Football?
Nope.
23rd between racquetball/squash (harder) and fencing (easier).
Ouch.
The number one game, in terms of challenge, is boxing followed by ice hockey and football (American). The simplest, badminton.
How do you feel about that?
I, for one, am happy that it made the list to begin with and those thinking they might like to try the water dance should, instead, opt for bobsledding/luge which is easier and, I’d imagine, more fulfilling.
But, quickly, when was the last time you played racquetball? I haven’t thought about it for a while, but a few years ago my very best friends toyed with making it our thing. In retrospect, I wish we would have. It’s a good time.
