Nic Lamb is a big wave hellman that could just as easily land the cover of GQ. Photos: WSL/ JP Van Swae (L) // WSL/Vitor Estrelinha (R)
Editor’s note: Nic Lamb has a taste for the finer things. He prefers tailored Armani suits and Ferragamos to shorts and flip flops. He’s an accomplished big wave rider. Eats healthy. He’s opinionated. Different. But that’s what makes him stand out. Contributor Jennifer Schmeer had the opportunity to catch up with Nic and pick his brain about surfing, and, more importantly, about life. Below is their exchange.
Do you have any rituals before you tackle big waves?
Not really. I’ll make my same coffee and a go-to breakfast bowl. All the rituals have been completed months, weeks and days leading up to events. By then it’s time to stay loose and enjoy myself.
Tell me about you. Where were you born and raised and how did that impact your surfing career?
I was born in Santa Cruz, CA. It’s an incredible beach town with numerous high caliber waves.
What did your parents do as occupation when you were growing up?
My father has his own business and my mother was a stay at home mom and now a realtor.
Do you have any brothers or sisters?
I have an older sister, a younger sister, and a brother.
What does your professional surfing career consist of? What are your milestones?
I started competing at under 10yr contests in South Africa. I won many amateur events U12,U14,U16 and was CA State champion at age 16. I am now a competitor on the Big Wave Tour. My first win was in December, 2014 in Spain. I also won the Titans of Mavs contest.
How did you start your competitive career at age of ten in South Africa?
My father was born in SA. I have family there and lived there from age nine to eleven.
What is it about surfing that keeps you dedicated?
I’m the biggest fan of the ocean. I’m absolutely obsessed with it.
What is it that you would like to accomplish in the surfing world?
I want to paddle into the biggest waves worldwide, continue to compete on the BWT, and one day claim a world title.
Who were your mentors growing up and what did they do for you?
I’ve always been obsessed with Bruce Lee and Andy Irons. I’ve watched everything they’ve done. I love how Bruce was so dedicated to his craft and the art of filmmaking. My passions are similar I love the ocean and the art of filmmaking and production.
What surfers do you look up to?
Andy Irons forever. Currently I enjoy watching guys like Mick, Medina, Julian. I think those guys are the best right now.
Do you have any favorite photographers?
Dave “negative nelly” Nelson and Ryan Chachi.
How many surfboards do you own and sizes?
A lot. Ranging from 5’10-10’6
Have you ever made a board?
Not yet..
If you could change something about the professional world of surfing what would it be?
Allow new people into the industry more often without surfing backgrounds to produce fresh ideas on how to monetize surfing as a whole. I feel the BWT is evolving beautifully and should be the future of live-streamed sports. However, I’d like to see a few changes and updates made with additional locations and venues internationally. Exponentially increased prize money. GPS wearable tech in our jerseys that can track speed and relay to viewers in real time. Stronger character development produced internally. We need a priority system. Additionally, I’d like to see select events like Mavs, Nazaré and Jaws be pay-per-view. Also, when is the WSL BWT video game release?
Who was the first person to take you surfing?
My father is a surfer and he was the first one to introduce me to the ocean at 5.
What is the biggest wave you have ever ridden?
I’m not sure..I don’t prefer to put numbers to a wave, I let other people do that. If I had to guess, around 60ft+.
Who is one of your favorite big wave riders?
Shane Dorian because of how he controls Jaws.
You promote organic how do you incorporate an organic lifestyle and why is it important to you?
It’s apparent now, and research certainly indicates, that organic is much more nutrient dense for the body. I do my best to only put in the highest quality nutrients into my body every day because I want to repair quicker and perform at my highest level possible. What you put into your body directly affects your health and performance
Any charities you are involved in?
Yes, I support a non-profit called Grind Out Hunger. It helps bring awareness and food to starving children.
Where is your local spot in SC?
Steamer Lane.
There are a lot of hard core surfers from SC. Is it ever intimidating paddling out with so many rough necks?
Absolutely. Those guys are monsters!
What is the wildest thing you have ever done?
I rode an ostrich in Africa and flew a plane once that was pretty wild.
What is next for you regarding surfing?
Competing on the BWT and going for a title as well as searching for the biggest waves worldwide to attempt to paddle while shooting and producing creative projects.
What is your ultimate goal in big wave riding?
Paddle into the largest surf and win the WSL BWT.
What do you think happens when you die?
Heaven.
Do you have any regrets pertaining to your surfing career or in life?
No regrets only feedback and learning lessons.
What do you sleep in at night time?
Naked.
What kind of movies do you like?
That’s difficult to answer because I enjoy a wide range of films. I can tell you who my favorite directors are – Tony Scott, David Fincher, Christopher Nolan, and Jake Scott.
Favorite place to vacation?
Mex.
What is your idea of a perfect vacation?
I feel better at work.
What is a project that you are currently working on now?
I’m working on a really exciting project dropping later this year. That’s all I can say.
Besides surfing what do you like to do in your free time?
Train, read, learn, and massages.
Favorite TV show?
House of Cards, and Billions.
What was the last surfing video that you watched?
Raw Irons.
Last time you cried and why?
The new Jungle Book got me teary, haha. I get invested quickly.
Do you have any pets?
A Rottweiller/Pitbull named Tiger.
What type of music do you listen to?
Everything. Mostly podcasts/books on tape but lately Drake.
Last book you read?
I’m currently reading Obstacle Is the Way and just finished Rise of Superman, The Ten Commandments for Business Failure, The War of Art, and Anthony Robbins’ latest Money: Master the Game.
Best advice ever received?
Seize the moment.
Favorite shaper?
I like all my shapers.
Who do you think has made the biggest impact in the surfing world/history wise?
Hopefully within the next few years the BWT will be the platform that will be remembered as such.
Out of all the big wave riders you have spent time with, who do you think is the wildest?
They’re all pretty wild in their own way but if I had to say one, maybe Skindog when he’s off the leash.
What is a perfect evening to you?
Just getting out of the ocean followed by a huge healthy organic meal and Netflix in bed.
When your career is over in regards to big wave riding, what do you plan on doing afterwards?
I love the ocean and I love film. So hopefully something involving both.
Since what you do for a living is a life and death situation type of profession, does that impact you in the way you live your daily life and how?
I’m pretty mellow I spend most of my time training, reading and watching Apple TV.
How can someone follow your daily steps? Social media? Instagram name? etc.
I’m on Facebook at Nic Lamb and IG @nic_lamb
