Getting to Know. . . Peggy Oki
Peggy Oki, the sole female member of the legendary '70s Zephyr skateboarding team, is the epitome of a generation that doesn't sit still. She recently turned fifty but is still embracing her roots—reentering the world of skate parks. When she's not skating, you might find Peggy playing viola with the UCSB Middle East ensemble, surfing, or mountain biking (although, she doesn't have as much time for mountain biking since she fell in love with rock climbing...). In her crusade to save the dolphins and whales, Peggy can be found organizing a letter-writing campaign, teaching children, or creating paintings and greeting cards for her cause.

Last song you downloaded: "Dani California" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
Last book you read: "White as the Waves" by Alison Baird. It's a very well-written retelling of Moby Dick from the whale's perspective.
Favorite comfort food: Dark chocolate with almonds
Champagne or beer (or other): Fresh clean water from a mountain spring, please.
Advice for beginners: Practice, practice, practice!
Hero: His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama, Jack Johnson, Yvon Chouinard
I'm most proud of: The victories of united efforts to protect the environment, dolphins, and the whales.
Favorite rainy day activity: Riding my homemade "Indoboard." I called and asked if I could get a real one but the guy never did. Maybe he lost my contact info. Wassup?
Pet peeve: People who litter or show disrespect for the environment and animals.
The perfect date: Surfing or climbing first, then being treated to dinner (vegan-friendly), a good movie, and dessert.
Who I'd cast to play me in the movie of my life: In previous years, Ziyi Zhang. Currently, Michelle Yeoh
Bathing suit or commando under your wetsuit: Bathing suit
Why I surf: Because there's nothing as fine or fun as surfing perfect waves in warm water.
Words to live by: May all of my thoughts, words, and deeds be of greatest benefit to all Creatures and Beings in All Worlds.

Read more about Peggy Oki, view her art, and help support her causes at peggy-oki.com.

Photo: Connie Aramaki

We asked Peggy what she brings
on an everyday skate session.


Z-Cult "Peggy Oki" deck
Independent trucks
Bones 60mm SPF wheels
Bones Swiss bearings
Pro-Tec Ace "Brian Patch" helmet
Pro-Tec skate pads

...and for a surf session:
Channel Islands 5'10" Twin Fin
or 6'5" Rounded Swallow
O'Neill Psycho II - 4/3mm
O'Neill booties
OAM Leash and Traction Pad
Mr. Zog's Quick Humps
FCS fin Key
Tide chart
Maui Jim Sunglasses
Aloe Up Sunblock
Hydrogen peroxide, Colloidal Silver
Rothhammer earplugs
Nutz over Chocolate Luna Bar
Smart Water

Click here for more surfer girl answers!

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