December 2023 Member of the Month: ROBERT FLANDERS

ROBERT FLANDERS

Hawaiian South Shore Member of the Month 

When and why did you initially get into surfing?

I started surfing in 2010 after moving to Florida. Growing up in Michigan, I skated half pipes and parks and when snowboarding was allowed at ski areas, I jumped on with both feet (hahaha). So being next to ocean I couldn’t wait to start surfing. The beach I most frequented was Ponce Inlet and absolutely fell in love surfing and being in the ocean.

Did you have a time period you laid off from surfing? If so, when and why did you start back up?

In 2019 I moved to Boston, Massachusetts and put my surfboard in storage until moving to Oahu.

After moving to Oahu in December 2021 and settling in Makakilo, I quickly started surfing again at White Plains beach. I rekindled that love for the water and began to develop skills that brought me to Hawaiian South Shore for a new board.

What is your favorite thing about surfing?

There are a couple of things that I love about surfing. 1.) Getting to enjoy God’s creation, seeing the sea life, sunrises and sunsets. 2.) The thrill of being on a board and catching a wave that propels you down the line…..an amazing feeling!

Where is your favorite place to eat after surfing? What is your favorite item on the menu?

My favorite place to eat after surfing is Dunkin Donuts.

On the menu at Dunks……a medium iced black coffee with less ice and a double chocolate donut.

What other hobbies do you have besides surfing?

First and foremost is my relationship with God, my family and friends.

What type of work do you do?

After finishing my career as a college wrestler, I started in the construction industry as a union interior journeyman carpenter. I quickly moved into the office side of construction as a project manager/estimator.

I have served as a vocational HS carpentry teacher and HS wrestling coach throughout my career, and I currently work as a project estimator for a union interior construction firm here on Oahu.

Tell us about the board you recently purchased from us. What model and size is it, and how do you like its performance?

I came into Hawaiian South Shore on a staycation in Waikiki looking for a board to rent that was different from the two boards I typically ride 9’6” Waikiki and 6’10” HIC). Dave quickly recommended the Harley Ingleby 8’0” Moe.

After test riding the HI-Moe, I fell in love. The ease of its paddle and the all maneuverability of the quad set up I knew wanted to buy one, and Dave made it easy to do so.

He said, “Ya know, you get to take the price of your rental off of the purchase price and we are having a sale on accessories!”

The rest is history. I’ve surfed this board non stop since purchasing it and only used my longboard on the super small days.

The best board purchase I’ve made to date and HSS has earned a lifetime customer.

Great service and the knowledge that every staff member has is unparalleled. If you are looking to get your quiver in order, you need to come to Hawaiian South Shore. You won’t regret it!!!