Hidden in a forest in Cedar Valley, near Vivian and McCowan, is the headquarters of the longest running same sole owner surf shop on the planet, named Maui North. John Dickson, aka “JD”, brought the first five windsurfing boards into Canada in the early-1970s and formed the company Windsurfing Toronto. “It just took off,” said JD.
Maui North has four demo sites in Canada (Ontario & BC) and one under construction in Jamaica. The BC site is 20 minutes from Whistler and has a lodge attached (as will the Jamaican site). The closest demo site to Toronto is at Fenelon Falls. It is a full-on water facility: sales, lessons, rentals, board demos, special events; complete with cabin rental, bed & breakfast, yoga and fitness.
JD was living in Newmarket when the house he was renting was sold. He started looking for a new home and remembered an advertisement he had seen for a house in the forest. Needless to say, he fell in love and has lived there since. By 1984, JD had brought 33,000 windsurfing boards into Canada. He had a warehouse in Toronto pumping out rentals. He figures he has educated 12,000 people from 7 schools and has sold 42,000 boards worldwide.
JD has been riding, since the sports inception, and has stuck with it for the long haul – the recessions, when nobody buys expensive toys, and the unpredictable trends of popular sports. He has lived it too: JD was a Canadian Champion Windsurfer from 1977-82. His personal speed record on Lake
Simcoe hit 48.5 knots (89 km/h) – “the water is like concrete at that speed – accidents are spectacular,” said JD. A World Class competitor and racer in many World Championships, JD with sights on the ’84 Olympics in Los Angeles, was robbed of his pro career in 1983 – he was run over by a negligent power boat operator. With severed knee, JD – lucky to be alive – stepped back a bit from active racing in the sport. Years of recovery later… he still cranks with the best of them!
With the less complicated and easier entry level Stand Up Paddle Boards, or SUPs, Maui North has led the way there too. JD, a known ‘ old school ‘ board shaper and designer, has created a number of classic styles, dedicated to all round rider appeal, and the more specialized aspects of performance surfing. “Everyone’s playtime is important… being on a board that works, and harmonizes with the rider…brings out the best of those moments. Everyone works hard these days… our clients deserve a good session… that’s what we specialize in… the experience”.
Maui North has online sales (maui-north.ca), ships worldwide, delivers regionally, and provides for local pick-up. JD is enthusiastic about board demos and old-fashion sales.
EDITOR’S TIP:
Readers of this magazine are invited to get acquainted with Maui North, mention or bring this article, meet the owner, and enjoy a further price discount on a board tailored just right for you.