Name- Michael 'Tupper' Uhlenkott

Stance- Regular

Board- My 2 favorites: 9' 8" Rennie Yater noserider, 9'10" custom Terry Martin.

What got you started surfing- As a kid in The Valley my neighbors were surfers & super cool. But they would never take a little gremmie like me to Malibu or Secos. I tried teaching myself for years but finally took a lesson as an adult in Kaua'i.

What keeps you surfing- It's the most beautiful thing on the planet.

Most memorable surf- Paddling out at Canoes for the first time with my boyfriend, Smokey, on huge rental boards. The early morning sun just peaking over Diamond Head and throwing golden sparkles on the water. Only 2 or 3 other people out! It was like being in an old postcard with the Duke and we had smiles from ear to ear.

Dream surf trip, whether you've already taken it, or dream of going- I am very interested in exploring the surf in Ra'ivava'e, French Polynesia.

Favorite break- Empty Malibu. Sunset! Or Mary's on the rare occasion when it's breaking.

How has surfing changed you- It has fulfilled a lifelong dream.

What do you do when there are no waves- Do all the things I put off like grocery shopping and haircuts.

What are you trying to do or learn to raise your level of surfing- My goals are to master traditional techniques: noseriding, crosstepping, dropknee turning, trimming, etc. So I can surf like Mark Martinson, c 1966.

Favorite surfers- Bob Simmoms, Pops, Phranc, Phil Edwards, Tom Blake, Kassia Meador.

Surfing pet peeve- Angry people in the water need to get out.

Ideal surf conditions- Shoulder high, offshore and glassy.

Anything to add- Aloha