SOLANA BEACH - The mixer was clearly a hit.

Dozens mingled in the back of Masuo restaurant, celebrating a passion for surfing with some sushi, a couple beers and a few tall tales. It was a meeting of the Solana Beach Surfing Association, an organization devoted to preserving local breaks.

Wednesday's gathering, however, was special. A legend was in their midst.

Hall of fame surfer Shaun Tomson was there as a guest speaker and to promote his book, "Surfer's Code: 12 Simple Lessons for Riding Through Life." The stop could've been a cash cow for Tomson, the 1977 world champion who was among the most popular surfers of his era.

He didn't make a dime, choosing instead to donate all proceeds of his book sales to the SBSA.

"I've been incredibly blessed to make a living doing something I love," Tomson said. "Surfing has given so much to me. I feel a certain responsibility to give something back."

Tomson, a native South African who now lives in Santa Barbara, has become an active environmentalist in retirement. Charitable acts have become routine for Tomson, who prides himself on being a positive influence on both the environment and his fans.

"Some athletes say that they shouldn't be role models," Tomson said. "I simply don't agree with that. People look up to athletes, and I believe we have an obligation to be a positive influence."

Tomson had an equally strong impact on his sport. He won 12 contests during his storied career, highlighted by a world title in 1977. He revolutionized surfing in barrels, adding flash to what was a typically straight-forward endeavor. His smooth style and confident demeanor made him a fan favorite, one considered a pioneer of surfing's modern era.

"There's a lot a great surfers out there right now, and they're not all professional," Tomson said. "Surfing's popularity is reaching new heights, and the pros are becoming a smaller segment of the community. It's a really exciting time for the sport."

Increased popularity has brought record revenue to the sport and its athletes. While Tomson's career came too early to reap the financial windfall of the industry boom, he's content with what he has.

"I have no regrets," said Tomson, who now runs the Solitude clothing line. "I enjoyed my career and was fortunate to have such success. But I'm also really proud of what I'm doing now, something I couldn't do while surfing full time."

Tomson is now a motivational speaker, preaching the lessons described in his book. Tomson uses surfing as a metaphor for life and applies it to everyday actions.

He explained that philosophy on Wednesday evening to a crowd clearly enamored by his presence.

They were also impressed by a video highlighting his storied career and immeasurable talent. Santa Barbara locals get to see it regularly when Tomson has the time to get back in the water.

"I go out whenever possible," Tomson said. "My body can't do what it once did, but my passion for surfing hasn't changed. I can't imagine that it ever will."

- The action sports column runs every Tuesday. To suggest story ideas, report local events or offer general comments, contact staff writer Scott Bair(760) 739-6642 or sbair@nctimes.com. Comment at sports.nctimes.com.

Perfect 10

Encinitas skaters

They won every division of the Pro-Tec Pool Party, hands down the most prestigious bowl contest in the nation, Saturday in Orange.

Rune Glifberg won the Pro division, Cara Beth Burnside won the women's title and Chris Miller won the Masters championship.

Total Wipe out

Taj Burrow

The Australian, currently sitting atop the World Championship Tour standings with Mick Fanning, will surely drop after losing in the fourth round of the Billabong Pro in Tahiti. Cory Lopez took Burrow down with 17.66 points, barely better than Burrow's 17.50 effort.

The Burning Question

Who is the best action-sports athlete to come out of North County? Is it Tony Hawk, Danny Way, Rob Machado or someone else? Email your response to sbair@nctimes.com, and it might get published as next week's Answer.

The Answer

Steve Moore takes a crack at last week's BQ, "Are surfers territorial?"

"Are surfers territorial? The answer is a definite YES. Most surfers have their own spot that they surf every day. They always see the same familiar faces in the lineup, but when there is an unfamiliar face, they can feel a little territorial and try to not let the person catch any waves.

"I grew up in Hermosa Beach and went to see my folks when they moved to Oxnard. I decided to surf at Hollywood by the Sea one day and I had three guys paddle over to me and said "This is our spot, surf somewhere else."

"I paddled away from these great ambassadors and got lots of waves to myself. When I got out and headed for my car, I saw someone by my car and run when they saw me coming. Needless to say, I had windows broken and four flat tires.

"But at least I got great 6-foot surf that day. Oh yeah that was 1970!"

- Scott Bair