Port Macquarie News,Wednesday,August 18, 2010
by Ken Gentles
MY wife is a psychologist, loves the power of the mind, positive thinking, clear and concise thoughts. So, she would be impressed by Alex Lincoln.
The 16-year-old recently won the NSW State Bodyboarding event (round two) at Port Macquarie and he attributes a lot of his success to
the power of the mind. “I start to get myself ready, mentally, about a month out from a big competition like that,”
Lincoln said. “I get myself into a very positive state; think about how I am going to win, how I am going to be
strong and how I am going to give my absolute best.”
Lincoln pulled off a back flip manoeuvre in the final, which impressed the judges enough for him
to snare the title. But, it was his positive mindset that really launched him to victory.
“All the surfers at that level are very talented,” he said.
“It can often take a little bit extra – more than talent alone to win the title.”
A former representative basketball player (he can play, I’ve seen him in action), Lincoln is built
more like a jockey than an LA Laker.
He made the decision, three years ago, to take bodyboarding seriously.
“I had to choose between basketball and bodyboarding,” the teenager explained.
“I was enjoying the surfing so much, I went with it and decided to give it my all.”
He hopes it will take him onto the world tour as a full-time professional.
“That is my ultimate goal,” Lincoln admits. “I train every morning and afternoon, get as
many days in the surf as possible – trying to improve my skills.”
The youngster has picked up a few sponsors along the way, but is working at Coles to save
money for trips up and down the coast to further his experience. “My next big event is the National Titles in
Queensland in November,” he said. “I will leave nothing in the tank to get ready for that.”
His favourite surfer is an Aussie guy called Chris James.
“He’s awesome, not even on the world tour, but I love watching his DVDs,” Lincoln said.
“I have also learned heaps by watching close at hand guys like Damian King (former world champion)
and other riders in my local club PMBA.” Asked, if given one wish, what he would change
about Port Macquarie? “Nothing, I love the place,” he said.
“No, bring back Peppermint Park (laughs). “Seriously, we need more things for teenagers my
age to do when the surf is no good.” He sure seems pretty positive about that!
Junior champion:
Port Macquarie Bodyboarding Association’s Alex Lincoln.
Pic:PETER GLEESON
