Burness, Michael (1962 – )

Quiet, ectomorphic goofyfooter from Durban, South Africa; world-ranked #7 in 1985. Michael Burness, son of contest organizer Peter Burness, began surfing at Durban's Bay of Plenty in 1970 at age eight. His pro career was put on hold in 1981, as he completed his mandatory two-year army service, which Burness claimed helped him on the world tour. "Kids start out on the circuit, and think they're a big deal. The army will wake you up from that, quickly."

Burness was a light (6', 140 pounds), fa...