Allen Newsome
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Ok.. first things first.. how did you get the nickname, "BLACK RAT?"
I got the name from basically being the only brotha that boogies, at least in San Diego. Although there are some other brotha's representing like Sihle Xaba from South Africa. Yes people... it's just a myth, black folks can swim. God created the ocean for everyone to enjoy.
Where did you grow up... did you ever think you'd bodyboard?
I originally grew up in Los Angeles in a suburb called Arcadia . Growing up I was always a three sport athlete: football, basketball, and track. My beach and swim experience came when I would go visit my Pops in Carlsbad. I basically learned how to boogie because I didn't want to be the guy left behind sitting watching my friends on the beach. I never thought it was a big deal that I liked bodyboarding. I still don't, it is a fun sport that I enjoy with my friends. The only difference between then and now is I don't go straight .
How did you meet Justin, Ray, Matt, and Rusty?
I meet Rusty first when I transferred to Carlsbad High from LA. I use to ball him up in P.E. I met Ray, Matt, and Justin at High School Youth Group. These guys are like brothers to me and I am blessed to have them in my life.
You have a great idea on promoting bodyboarding to the intercity kids. Tell us about that?
Well surfing and bodyboarding is a predominately a coastal sport. If you look at that from an economic perspective, you basically have two sports and a subculture that mainly exists in affluent white neighborhoods. Now I am not saying that everyone who boogies is rich, but what I am saying is that in order for the sport to grow it needs to be more appealing to all types of people. For those that are involved in the business side of the sport its got all kinds of economic benefits. If inner city youth were introduced and bused out to surf camps, how would the sport look 5, 10, 15 years from now? There are a lot of talented kids and athletes in the inner-cities of America and around the world. The sport of baseball grew the same way back in the day. I don't care who you are there is something undeniable about the water. God created it, we were born in it, and we need it to survive. So lets gets some kids out of the city and on the beach to get barreled.
You have an obsession with Africa and have done some mission work over there.. tell us about that?
I love Africa!! Its the most beautiful place I have every been to in the world. I was blessed to have an opportunity to spend a few months serving there . Africa is now in my blood, its on my mind and heart constantly. I specifically have a heart for South Africa. There has been a lot of negative press about SA lately, all I have to say is God has a plan don't believe the hype . The future is in the youth there.
You're really into Jiu Jitsu? How did you get into that and who is the best and why?
I love Jiu Jitsu. It is very similar to paddling out, you never know what to expect. Every opponent is different just like the conditions when you paddle out to different spots. I like this because it keeps you humble and hungry to get better. The best in the sport.. thats easy, Rickson Gracie.
Since you do Jiu Jitsu, what do you think of MMA? Who's the most underrated fighter out there?
I don't really feel like its my place to talk about MMA because I am not a MMA fighter. Although as a fan of MMA I have always thought BJ Penn should be regarded as one of the best.
What's the sketchiest place you've ever been too?
LA in the early 90's.
Where would you like to see RXYM Fashion expand to during the next few years?
Worldwide domination.
You went to college for graphic design. Why are most clothing companies doing "All Over Screening." Is that just a fad or is it here to last?
I guess it is a fad.
Who is your favorite bodyboarder and why?
Alistair Taylor, he's sik wit it.
What would you say to other African Americans who want to get into bodyboarding or surfing? You ever had a racial encounter out in the water?
Just do it. Don't believe the hype or stereotypes. I have never had a racial encounter in the water. Racism is ignorant and if someone has a problem it doesn't effect me. My parents raised me to think and do things without limitations. Last time I checked, God made the earth for all of mankind to enjoy.
Any final thoughts or shout outs?
My family, lil sis, and Jahmeelah.