Clay Marzo is an enigma to most of the surfing world. He’s supremely talented but doesn’t let himself get caught up in the rat race of competitions, content creation, and chasing sponsors like most athletes. His approach to any wave in any conditions is incredibly unique and creative, but the supply of highlights rarely meets our demand. And this just adds to the intrigue.
Marzo’s always been open about his diagnosis with Asperger Syndrome, a disorder known to fuel challenges with social interaction as well as drive individuals to intense focus and expertise in things that pique their interest. In Clay’s case, both sides of that coin help us understand and appreciate how he became a world-class surfer we can never really get enough of.
The truth is, if you’ve spent any time with him, you know he’s just an incredibly cool individual. He’s genuine. He’s funny. He’s a straightforward guy who doesn’t bullshit. Walk into any room full of surfers and Clay is inevitably the guy that drives people into fanboy mode. Sit down with him at the dinner table and you’ll find yourself trading jokes for an hour. Want to talk about something other than surfing? Just ask him about the Lakers and watch him go into fanatic mode. Want to drag him away from Maui? Convince him that jumping on a flight somewhere is going to somehow offer better waves than what he’ll get at home. But as you can see here, Clay Marzo’s style stands out whether the waves are world class and pumping or onshore and gutless.
