Transmission Chris James Interview

In: Transmission by doclach 0 Comments Thu 24th Nov '11
Tags: Chris James , Nick Chandler , Sydney Bodyboard Club
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  • Grizz-matt-ryan
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  • Chris-james---calum-macaulay

Nick Chandler from SBC (Sydney Bodyboarding Club) brings us a second interview of pro's participating in one of Australia's biggest grass roots clubs, raising the riding bar. We've missed Griz, the blokes one of the big characters in the sport and it's good to have him back in the water. Some call him "Chris James" but I've never personally heard him called that. Griz, Grizzzlah and a thousand variations on the theme. Giving the Novocastrians a hard time at the moment, let's catch up on what the man has been doing....

SBC: So, tell us about what you've been up to lately? Had any quality waves around the beaches
CJ: Currently living in Newcastle. Been surfing 3 times a day lately there's been so many waves up here! Doing day trips up north which is a nice change to always going down south.. It's been good for my surfing, just trying to get back timing etc after such a long time outta the water! Been working at BSC a bit on the side too which has been great.

SBC: Tell us about that latest trip you've been on. How were the waves? Any funny incidents involving your fellow travellers?
CJ: Latest and greatest trip was to Tahiti for a big swell.. We went for 7 days and scored almost every day, with the highlight being 8-10 chopes one Arvo with only 4 others out! Was incredible just staying with a local family. The Tahitians are the nicest people, so open and friendly. Nick Ormerod thought it would be funny to put tobasco sauce in my toothpaste. Had a burning mouth all night haha, which reminds I still owe him one, revenge is sweet!

SBC: Which sponsors are helping pay the bills at the moment?
CJ: Zion wetsuits, I am none clothing, BSC, Limited Edition fins and Nomad Bodyboards are keeping me afloat.

SBC: How has being involved with a local club like SBC helped develop your bodyboarding?
CJ: Local clubs create a healthy competitive environment for all the groms.. I remember doing those comps when I was younger and all I wanted at the time was to be the best in my division. You'll be surprised at how quickly you improve in such an environment! You also make great friendships with other people sharing your passion of the boog.

SBC: Any advice to aspiring pro bodyboarders out there?
CJ: Stick at it, never be scared to fail as it's the best way to improve. Good people skills, and communication are just as important. Surf what feels comfortable and flowy to you, draw style from your fave riders and implement it into your own, as no one likes a clone! Also remember at the end of the day you have to be enjoying yourself.

SBC: What are your plans for the next few months?
CJ: Start working on a new film, a few trips planned, enjoy the summer at home and play the waiting game for waves!

SBC: So, you're coming along to the SBC preso?
CJ: Sure am, can't wait! It's epic to see all the guys and see which groms are shredding.

Postscript: If you missed the first interview by Nick with Ewan Donnachie, you can find it here. Griz also has a twitter account now. you can catch up with him there on @ChrisJames_BB
Support your local Bodyboard Club, there are so many crazy times and good riding to be had.

Photographers bringing you this smoking gallery: Mickey Smith (Title pic) , Andrew Smythe, Matt Ryan, Mark Britten & Calum Macaulay

 

 

 

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