The Oom – The Biography of South African Water Sports Pioneer John Whitmore

‘The Oom’ is the illustrated biography of South African water sports pioneer John ‘The Oom’ Whitmore (1929-2001), written by Cape Town journalist Miles Masterson. John played a pivotal role in establishing surfing, Hobie Cats, and bodyboarding in South Africa, helping to turn the country into a global force in these disciplines. The book serves as the first detailed account of the early histories of these water sports in South Africa through the prism of John’s long, adventurous and productive life.