Nicknamed “Pottz” and “Eggy Potter”, Martin is a British born surfer who was educated in Durban, South Africa. Considered the best “free-surfer” of his generation, Potz displayed immense talent, but lacked the consistency in the era of 25-plus event tours.

He forever silenced the critics in 1989 by winning the world title. Pottz redefined competitive surfing by performing risky aerials moves and helped lead the way for a new form of competitive surfing which is now standard on the pro tour.

Legendary surfboard shaper was a relative unknown until Shaun Tomson captured the world title in 1977 on a Merrick-shaped board. Soon thereafter Al began making boards for future legend Tom Curren. Under Merrick’s tutelage, the teenage star inked deals with Op and Rip Curl and went on to win three world titles.

As Curren’s status reached epic proportions, so did Merrick’s surfboard label, Channel Islands. This reputation grew as young surfers wanted to duplicate Curren’s feats and the next generation of top professionals, spearheaded by Kelly Slater, desired Merrick’s creations; further cementing his status as an elite shaper/ entrepreneur.