Member-only story

The Epic Tale of Eddie Aikau: Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing

Bruce Snyder

·8.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Eddie Would Go: The Story Of Eddie Aikau Hawaiian Hero And Pioneer Of Big Wave Surfing

4 min read

485 View Claps

45 Respond

Save

Listen

Eddie Aikau, A Legendary Hawaiian Surfer, Lifeguard, And Pioneer Of Big Wave Surfing. Eddie Would Go: The Story Of Eddie Aikau Hawaiian Hero And Pioneer Of Big Wave Surfing

Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing

by Stuart Holmes Coleman

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3559 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	384 pages

In the annals of surfing history, the name Eddie Aikau stands tall as a beacon of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. Born on the island of Maui in 1946, Eddie Aikau grew up immersed in the ocean, developing an unparalleled love and respect for its power and beauty.

As a young man, Eddie's natural athleticism and fearless spirit drew him to the challenging waters of Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Waimea Bay became a proving ground for a new breed of surfers who dared to ride the towering waves that crashed upon its shores.

Eddie Aikau was one of those pioneers. With his signature yellow surfboard and infectious enthusiasm, he pushed the boundaries of what was possible in surfing. He became renowned for his ability to navigate the massive waves with grace and skill, earning the respect and admiration of fellow surfers and fans alike.

But Eddie Aikau's legacy extended beyond his surfing prowess. He was also a dedicated lifeguard, serving the North Shore community with unwavering compassion. In 1971, he famously rescued 15 people from a capsized boat during a treacherous storm. His heroic act solidified his reputation as a true guardian of the ocean.

In 1978, Eddie Aikau embarked on a remarkable voyage that would forever cement his place as a legend. Along with three other paddlers, he set out to paddle a Polynesian voyaging canoe from Hawaii to Tahiti, a distance of over 2,500 miles.

The journey was arduous and perilous. The paddlers faced relentless storms, towering waves, and dwindling supplies. Just days into the voyage, tragedy struck. Their canoe capsized in rough seas, and Eddie Aikau volunteered to swim for help.

Despite his extraordinary swimming abilities, Eddie Aikau was never seen again. His sacrifice and unwavering commitment to his fellow paddlers left an indelible mark on the surfing world. In his honor, the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is held annually at Waimea Bay, bringing together the world's top big wave surfers to compete in the waves that Eddie himself once conquered.

The story of Eddie Aikau is one of courage, compassion, and unwavering determination. He was a true Hawaiian hero, a pioneer of big wave surfing, and a symbol of the enduring spirit that resides within us all.

In the book "The Story of Eddie Aikau: Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing," author Stuart Coleman weaves a captivating narrative that brings Eddie's extraordinary life to vivid detail. Through interviews with Eddie's family, friends, and fellow surfers, Coleman paints a portrait of a man who lived life to the fullest, always striving to reach new heights while never forgetting his roots and the importance of helping others.

Whether you are a seasoned surfer, a novice admirer of the sport, or simply someone who appreciates the power of the human spirit, "The Story of Eddie Aikau" is a must-read. It is a timeless tale of adventure, courage, and the enduring legacy of a true Hawaiian hero.

Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing

by Stuart Holmes Coleman

4.7 out of 5