Großes Meer: "Handing over the life's work to the right person" - Generation change at the surf school

The founder: Jens Radde

Jens, what originally motivated you to found and run the surf school on the Great Sea?

I have been passionate about windsurfing as a water sport since I was thirteen. I also rode a lot of racing bikes in my youth, but windsurfing was everything to me.

How has the surf school developed in recent years?

In 1988 I started with a forest and meadow school. I had 20 boards, 20 rigs and 20 wetsuits. The surf school consisted of a box in the bushes.

What particular challenges have you faced over the years?

To keep up with the latest developments in water sports in terms of equipment, accommodation and guest support with a small surf school.

What did you enjoy most about running the surf school?

On the one hand, personal responsibility and, on the other, working together with a wide variety of people towards the same goal: To convey the joy of water sports to as many people as possible.

Why did you decide to hand over the surf school?

Because the right time doesn't even come "by accident", but from the heart. Handing over your life's work to the right person.

The right time comes from the heart."

What was important to you when choosing the new owner?

Trust and friendship. Knowing that no one is cheating on the other because you've been friends with an open mind for over a decade.

What advice would you give Christian for the future of the surf school?

Stay the way you are!

Is there a special memory or anecdote from your time as owner that is important to you?

There are so many incredible stories that I could write books about. A lot comes together in 36 years.

Do you have a vision or a wish for how the surf school could develop further?

Development never stops (in water sports). The core of the story is to bring people together through water sports and to inspire them to discover a new philosophy of life.

• Spot guide Großes Meer - gem in East Frisia

The "new one": Christian Bekker

Christian, how long have you been working at the Großes Meer surf school?

I got my surfing licence with Jens when I was about 14 and have therefore known him for almost half my life. Since I was 16, I have worked with Jens with various interruptions and in different intensities.

What inspired you to take over the surf school?

I learnt all the soft skills there that I know today. I've also been at home on the Great Sea for 20 years. When Jens commented that he was starting to think about retirement, I knew it was the right step for me.

What new ideas or concepts are you planning for the surf school?

My short-term goal is to familiarise myself with all areas of the surf school that I haven't had any contact with yet. Everything else will build on that. But of course my head is bubbling over with ideas such as expanding the sailing and wingsurfing/foiling areas, resuming shop operations and organising regular events. But I'll leave it up to me to decide exactly what comes next.

What are your initial goals for the coming year?

Survive the first season! All joking aside. My aim is to familiarise myself with everything, catch up on any missing licences and get an overview of what is already possible and what can be implemented in the future.

What experience do you have in water sports and business operations?

Water sports have been a huge part of my life since I was little. From opti-sailing to the 420 to windsurfing, I have always spent a lot of time on the water. I also spent 14 years with Jens at the surf school. I have completed vocational training as an IT specialist, have a bachelor's degree in business informatics and several years of professional experience in the organisation of a large German energy supplier. Overall, I feel quite well prepared, even though I'm already looking forward to the surprises that life as a surf school owner brings.

Will you be taking over Jens' team or will there be changes?

As the surf school's permanent team previously consisted of Jens, the answer is yes! Jens will continue to be part of the surf school team and support me. Two interns who prepared for the windsurfing instructor course last season will also be joining the team again.

What are the biggest challenges you see with the takeover?

The biggest challenge is to think about all the little things. These range from points such as "What materials are actually available?" to negotiations with the municipality regarding the lease agreement. The German bureaucracy with business registrations and issues such as "What kind of business do I actually want to run?" should also not be underestimated. Things that need to be well thought out. The school registration with the VDWS is the least of the hurdles, thanks to the great support!

Will you change or expand the existing course offerings?

I would like to focus a little more on sailing and also offer cat sailing as an option. I would also like to offer more windsurfing courses. The existing range of courses will remain the same, but will be more varied - especially to better cater to the needs of customers!

Information and contact at big-sea.surf

Interview: VDWS