Wood, Nicky (1970 – )

Enigmatic pro surfer from Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia; world-ranked #12 in 1990. Wood was born (1970) and raised in Newcastle, began surfing at age six, and seemed destined for greatness; he was godson to four-time world champ Mark Richards, and 1966 world champion Nat Young was a frequent Wood family houseguest.

Wood was a two-time winner in the cadets division (under 16) of the Australian National Titles, and runner-up to the Australian Professional Surfing Association title at a...