Shaun Thomson*, world surfing title winner, is born in Durban

Shaun Thomson, an internationally recognized professional surfer, was born in Durban on 21 August 1955. He attended Clifton Preparatory School and Carmel College, and began surfing at the age of ten. In 1973, after serving 18 months in the army, Thomson began studying for a business degree in Durban. During this time he won six consecutive Gunston 500 titles (now known as the Mr. Price Pro), and just a year before finishing his qualification, joined the IPS tour. While on tour, Thomson won the Pipeline Masters, and solidified himself as the world's best 'tuberider'. This 'tuberiding' was captured in Bill Delaney's film Free Ride. Thomson went on to win the world title in Hawaii in 1977, and remained in the top 16 until 1989. During this time he relocated to California, where he and his wife began Solitude Clothing. Thomson and his wife Carla had one son Mathew, who died accidentally in 2006. He is regarded as the best tube rider of all time, and is now a keynote speaker, author, actor and film producer. *Thomson's last name is spelt as 'Thompson' and 'Tomson' in other sources.