Rusty Preisendorfer first noticed Mark Occhilupo during a California contest in 1983. Occy’s talent was obvious, but Rusty believed a different board could give that power and speed more freedom.
Rusty shaped him a board and handed it over before the young Australian returned home. Occy initially stayed with familiar equipment, but once he finally rode the Rusty, the connection was immediate. The design helped him through major junior and international events, even after part of the nose was broken during competition.
The board known as “Magic”
By 1985, a refocused Occy was again riding Rusty boards. One became known simply as “Magic.” It supported the deep rail work, explosive direction changes and natural power that made his surfing unmistakable. Occy went on to win the OP Pro and Pipeline Masters while challenging Tom Curren for the world title.
The modern 1984 model carries the design language of that partnership: a direct link to one of the most influential surfer–shaper relationships of the era.
Adapted with permission from Rusty Surfboards USA.
