At 70 years old, John “Sage” Harper is a living testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a life well-lived. With over five decades of experience riding waves, Sage, as his friends affectionately call him, is not just a surfer—he’s an embodiment of the surfing lifestyle and philosophy. Still catching waves almost every day, Sage’s story is a blend of wisdom, adventure, and the simple joy of staying connected to the ocean.
The Early Days: A Lifelong Love Affair with the Ocean
Sage Harper’s love for surfing began when he was just a boy growing up on the California coast. The son of a fisherman, he spent his days by the sea, drawn to the power and rhythm of the waves. By the time he was a teenager, Sage was already a regular at the local surf spots, riding whatever board he could get his hands on.
“I didn’t have much back then,” Sage recalls with a smile. “But I had the ocean, and that was all I needed. Surfing gave me freedom, a sense of purpose, and a connection to something bigger than myself.”
That connection only deepened as the years went on. Sage traveled the world, surfing iconic breaks from Hawaii to Australia, always seeking the next great wave but never losing sight of the simple pleasure of just being in the water.
Sage’s Philosophy: Surfing as a Way of Life
Now, at 70, Sage’s approach to surfing—and life—has evolved into a philosophy that he’s eager to share with others. For him, surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life, a form of meditation, and a path to physical and mental well-being.
“Surfing teaches you to be present,” Sage says. “When you’re out there on the water, nothing else matters. You’re in tune with nature, with the movement of the ocean, and with yourself. It’s a practice that keeps you young, in body and spirit.”
Sage’s advice to younger surfers, and anyone looking to live a fuller life, is to embrace this mindset. “Don’t get caught up in the rush of the world,” he advises. “Take your time, find your flow, and enjoy the journey. It’s not about how many waves you catch, but how you feel when you’re on the board.”
Staying Fit and Healthy: The Key to Longevity
One of the secrets to Sage’s longevity in the sport is his commitment to staying fit and healthy. Even at 70, he maintains a daily routine that includes stretching, strength training, and, of course, surfing.
“Your body is your most important piece of equipment,” Sage explains. “You’ve got to take care of it if you want to keep doing what you love. I’m not talking about lifting heavy weights or running marathons—just keep moving, stay flexible, and listen to your body.”
Sage also emphasizes the importance of mental health, something that surfing has helped him nurture over the years. “The ocean is my therapy,” he says. “Whenever I’m feeling stressed or out of sorts, I hit the water. It clears my mind, lifts my spirits, and reminds me of what’s important.”
The Wisdom of Experience: Lessons from a Lifetime of Surfing
With a lifetime of experience behind him, Sage Harper has learned a few lessons that he believes are worth passing on to the next generation of surfers—and to anyone who seeks a fulfilling life.
“First, respect the ocean,” Sage begins. “It’s powerful, unpredictable, and it demands your respect. Learn its ways, be patient, and never take unnecessary risks.”
“Second, keep learning,” he continues. “No matter how long you’ve been doing something, there’s always more to discover. I’m still learning new techniques, new ways to read the waves, new ways to enjoy the ride.”
“Finally, share the stoke,” Sage concludes with a grin. “Surfing has brought me so much joy, and the best part is sharing that joy with others. Teach someone new, help out a fellow surfer, or just spread good vibes. It’s what makes our community so special.”
A Life Well-Lived
As the sun sets on another day of surfing, Sage Harper reflects on his journey with gratitude. “I’ve had a good run,” he says. “But I’m not done yet. There are still waves to ride, places to explore, and people to meet. Life is like surfing—you never know what the next wave will bring, but if you’re ready for it, it can be the ride of a lifetime.”
For those who cross paths with Sage, whether on the beach or in life, his sage advice serves as a reminder that age is just a number, and that the pursuit of passion, health, and happiness is timeless.
