Occy: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Mark Occhilupo

by Mark Occhilupo, Tim Baker

Child star at 16, ranked third in the world at 17, Mark Occhilupo looked set to sweep all before him with a radical, spontaneous, irresistible brand of surfing. Yet a spiraling descent into drug abuse and depression snuffed his flame out prematurely when he quit the pro tour at just 22. Faltered comebacks, spectacular bursts of free-surfing, and manic breakdowns followed as the surfing world watched a freakish talent self-combust. After years spent immobile and overweight on the couch, Occy eventually emerged from his cocoon, reborn and ready to tackle a whole new generation of surf stars. His celebrated comeback to win the world title in 1999 is a sporting fairytale without equal. In this no-holds barred account, Occy tells the complete, remarkable story of his spectacular rise, terrifying fall, and miraculous rebirth.

Genres: Biography, Autobiography

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Marty Leong · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great story that often goes untold about one of the most unique and talented surfing icons. The book provides an honest account of a charismatic figure who was and still is very much loved amongst the surfing world.

I found the book’s style a bit disjointed, with the incorporation of quotes from various people who Occy had an impact on throughout his life, which I thought hindered the natural flow of book somewhat. However some might argue that these extended quotes really provide the raw and authentic depiction of the impact Occy’s career had on the surfing world. Overall a very entertaining book that satisfies the reader with a loveable underdog story.

[EddieP · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the Mick Fanning book then this one. I don't like how both are a series of interviews which are transcribed and pasted in the appropriate order, with the subject filling in.

Additionally, the subject jumps in with no separation in the text. Too often I have to jump back because I think I'm reading what someone thinks of the subject and not what the subject's thoughts are.

This writing style feels lazy to me. Anyone with access can go to someone's house or call them and record the conversation, then transcribe it and paste it.

The best-written part was when the author wrote about his thoughts on Occy. This was fun to read because it wasn't in choppy (here's what this person had to say) format.

I won't be reading another TB book.

[Jesse R Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great read. I was familiar with Occy as a surfer, but never knew about his struggles. I am so glad he made it through all of that and revived his career and just went back to ripping it on the tour. Sounds like everyone, even the Hawaiian surfers thought a lot of Occy. My only wish was that there would have been a bunch of pics in the book.

[Robin · Rating 1 out of 5]

A lot of half truths in this book and slander. Mark always spun truth and I wasn’t surprised when I read this. Narcissists don’t know the meaning of truth nor do they care who they slander along the way.

[Stephen Gilbert · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another pretty boring biography about an interesting life. How do they consistently make these so dull.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book about an awesome Aussie Legend.

[Joel Wasserman · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was ok.
I liked reading about the places he went, and the people he met.
I just felt like there wasn't a whole lot of conflict or resolution.
Just a slow autobiography. I was really interested at first, then I lost
steam about 2/3 of the way through.

[Shane · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great story, but only just an entertaining read. A lot is skimmed over, especially during the "Elvis years".

[James Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books ever written on a larger than life aussie hero, occyth commeth again.

[Michelle Drielsma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Occy is a fresh, funny, authentic, insightful surfer who has a lot to share with the surfing world.