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Book Review: Godfather of the Waves - The Life and Times of a Surfing Trailblazer

Book Review: Godfather of the Waves - The Life and Times of a Surfing Trailblazer

Author: By Kasia Yoko
Date: 2026-06-26

Some books tell a story while others capture the spirit of an era. Godfather of the Waves by Mike Larmont, which was penned with Graham Spence, does both with remarkable honesty and heart.

For many South Africans, surfing is more than a sport. It is a way of life, a connection to the ocean, freedom and adventure. Mike Larmont embodies all of that. His memoir takes readers from the golden beaches of Durban to some of the most legendary waves on the planet, while offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of South African surfing over the past five decades.

What makes this book such an engaging read is not only the incredible adventures, the famous personalities and the larger-than-life stories, but the humility of the man at its centre. Larmont shares his triumphs and setbacks with equal sincerity. His journey from a young dreamer shaping surfboards on the South Coast to becoming one of South Africa's most respected surfing pioneers is inspiring without ever feeling boastful.

The book is also a love letter to Durban and the ocean culture that shaped generations of wave riders. Readers who have never stood on a surfboard will still find themselves drawn into a world of courage, innovation, friendship and perseverance.

As I turned the pages, I was reminded that life itself is much like the sea. There are calm days and storms, wipeouts and victories. The secret is to keep paddling, keep learning and never stop chasing the next horizon.

Beautifully written and rich with nostalgia, Godfather of the Waves is more than a surfing memoir. It is a story about passion, resilience and staying true to the call of your soul.

Whether you are a surfer, a dreamer or simply someone who appreciates a life well lived, this book deserves a place on your bookshelf. Mike Larmont's story is proof that some legends are not made on land - they are born in the waves.