Robin de Kock, a name synonymous with South African surfing, has recently announced his retirement after an extraordinary 50-year journey.
South Africa (29 October 2024) – It is always so admirable to witness the journey of a person tapping into their passion and making it the driving force of their life, living each day with purpose and impacting the lives of those around them.
Surfing South Africa’s General Manager, Robin de Kock, who has dedicated 50 years to the sport he loves most, is a testament to this.
From the tender age of eight, Robin’s heart was captivated by the call of the ocean. The thrill of riding the waves ignited a fire within him, a flame that would illuminate his life’s path, setting the stage for his remarkable journey in the sport.
After building a rich legacy of achievements and inspiration, he has now decided to put up his board and step down from his general manager role to spend more time with his family as he prepares to take retirement.
Robin’s administrative career
Robin’s administrative surfing journey began at club level when he was elected as the Secretary-General of the Atlantic Surf Club in 1974.
In 1976, he earned a position on the panel of accredited officials at the South African Surfing Championships.
According to Surfing South Africa, he worked at this event and international contests such as the Gunston 500, the Spur Surfabout, the European Surfing Championships, and the ISA World Surfing Championships for three decades.
It wasn’t long until Robin’s leadership skills were recognised in 1980 when he was elected President of WP Surfing and Vice President of the South African Surfing Association after serving as its Secretary General for six years.
In 1988, he was elected President of the South African Surfing Association, a role that paved the way for his historic election as the first President of the unified body (Surfing South Africa) in 1991.
He held this position until 2002 when he was appointed the first General Manager of Surfing South Africa.
In 1998, he was elected Vice President of the International Surfing Association. He was re-elected four times and stood down in 2012. He remains a member of the ISA Technical Committee.
Under his guidance, South African surfing experienced a golden era. He spearheaded numerous initiatives, including successfully managing the SA Surfing Teams nine times, and the establishment of the annual Grommet Development Surfing Games, which has nurtured countless young talents.
His efforts were instrumental in South Africa’s return to the International Surfing Association and the subsequent inclusion of surfing in the Olympic Games.
Robin de Kock’s Legacy
Robin’s legacy extends far beyond his administrative roles. He has been a mentor, a role model, and an unwavering advocate for the sport.
His passion and enthusiasm have inspired countless individuals to embrace the ocean and its transformative power.
Surfing South Africa President Isaac February expressed profound gratitude and thanks for the General Manager’s service.
“On behalf of the entire surfing community, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for your incredible dedication and leadership over many years. Your unwavering commitment and passion have shaped the organisation and significantly contributed to the growth and development of surfing in South Africa,” said February.
“Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. Your legacy of dedication, mentorship, and love for the surfing community will continue to inspire and guide us. We are profoundly grateful for your contributions.”
Sources: Surfing South Africa
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