Totally agree Mac,but for me with on going and worsening shoulder problems ,my theory was if you can't catch you can't ride .I have mentioned before my favourite board was the tak price 11.2 and that was 24.5, wide stepping away from topic if I may,recently out of frustration/curiosity I've been riding a surf Matt,to stay in the water ! In over55 years riding just about everything that has come and gone it is without a doubt the biggest challenge yet,as a well known Matt rider says you can catch a wave first go ,but it can take the rest of your surfing days to master !Ahh light bulb moment! Stop trying to master it and just have fun ! I think It's about still getting in the water as you age !