SAndbar surf school
Interview with Jonny
The Journey of Learning to Surf
Imagine the sun-kissed shores of Pismo Beach, where the rhythmic sound of crashing waves calls both locals and tourists alike. Nestled in this coastal paradise is the Sandbar Surf School, a haven for surf enthusiasts of all ages. For the past 14 years, Johnny Ziegler, the owner of the school, has been sharing his passion for surfing with eager learners, making it a hub of joy and excitement. He shares, “I’m the most blessed individual on this beach because I get to teach everybody, and I have the best staff around to teach everybody this really cool skill set.”
Operating out of a humble parking lot with a trusty truck as their base, the Sandbar Surf School has been a fixture in the community for two decades. Reflecting on the unique setup, Johnny says, “We’ve done lessons out of this parking lot for, even before I was owner of this, Sandbar, for 20 years. And the lot is very special because it’s our logistics capital.” This simple yet effective base provides a backdrop for lessons that keep learners away from the crowded pier, enhancing both safety and learning quality.
At Sandbar Surf School, the atmosphere is relaxed and encouraging. Instructor Ben explains the essence of their approach: “There’s nothing like the thrill of catching that perfect wave. It’s all about patience and practice.” Cathrine, a student who recently experienced her first successful surf, expressed her excitement, saying, “I felt like I was on top of the world! Ben said I would get it, and when I finally did, it was better than I expected.” Their comments reflect the rewarding nature of learning to surf at the school.
Johnny emphasizes the critical role of weather in surfing: “Weather is the dominant factor of whether we’re going to do a surf lesson or not as weather is the creation of our waves and that creates our momentum, and momentum is what we seek to slide on the waves with.” From the tumultuous waters of winter to the consistent rolling waves of summer, every season presents an opportunity for beginners to experience the thrill of surfing under the guidance of skilled instructors.
One of the school’s defining features is its diverse mix of students, ranging from children to adults, males to females. While learning to surf may come more naturally to the young, Sandbar Surf School prides itself on catering to adults seeking to master this exhilarating sport. With a keen focus on providing the right equipment tailored to individual needs, Johnny ensures that each student, regardless of age, is set up for success in their surfing journey.
At the heart of Sandbar Surf School lies a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. Johnny’s genuine passion for teaching surfing shines through as he witnesses the transformation of beginners into confident wave riders. The school’s motto of being “stewards of stoke” encapsulates their commitment to guiding and supporting students through the challenges of learning to surf, ultimately leading them to the euphoric moment of catching their first wave.
In conclusion, the story of Sandbar Surf School is one of perseverance, joy, and shared experiences in the water. It serves as a reminder that with dedication and the right guidance, anyone can experience the thrill of catching your first wave. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a curious beginner, the allure of riding the waves at Pismo Beach awaits, promising moments of exhilaration and, hopefully, a great reward handed to you directly from the ocean.
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Jonny Zeigler – Sandbar Surf School Owner