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

Clarence Mitchell

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

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Eddie Aikau Surfing A Massive Wave 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

A Life Defined by Courage and Aloha

Eddie Aikau, born on May 4, 1946, in Kahului, Maui, was destined for greatness on the waves. Growing up on the idyllic shores of Hawaii, he quickly developed an unyielding passion for surfing, honing his skills with unwavering determination. Eddie's exceptional talent and love for the ocean would forever intertwine his name with the history of surfing.

Conquering the Big Waves

Eddie Aikau's fearless nature and relentless pursuit of excellence propelled him to the forefront of big wave surfing. He became renowned for tackling legendary surf breaks such as Waimea Bay and Peahi (Jaws),pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible on a surfboard. Eddie's unwavering belief in his abilities and his deep understanding of the ocean allowed him to conquer some of the most formidable waves on the planet.

A Lifeguard with a Compassionate Heart

Beyond his surfing prowess, Eddie Aikau was also a dedicated lifeguard. He served with the Honolulu Police Department's Ocean Safety Division, where his unwavering commitment to saving lives became legendary. Eddie's bravery and selflessness were exemplified in countless rescues, where he risked his own life to bring others safely to shore. His unwavering dedication to protecting the lives of others embodied the true spirit of aloha.

The Tragic Loss of a Legend

On March 17, 1978, tragedy struck the surfing world. Eddie Aikau, along with fellow surfers Butch Van Artsdalen, Bobby Goodman, and Mark Foo, set out on a daring mission to rescue the crew of the capsized yacht "Hokule'a." Despite their best efforts, the yacht drifted farther out to sea, and Eddie, being the strongest swimmer, volunteered to paddle his surfboard out to seek help. He was never seen again.

A Legacy that Lives On

Eddie Aikau's untimely demise sent shockwaves through the surfing community and beyond. His unwavering courage, his selfless acts of heroism, and his infectious spirit of aloha continue to inspire generations of surfers and water enthusiasts. To honor his memory, the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is held annually at Waimea Bay, bringing together the world's top big wave surfers to celebrate Eddie's legacy and to perpetuate the spirit of aloha.

The Essence of Aloha

Eddie Aikau's life and legacy are a testament to the enduring power of the aloha spirit. Aloha, a Hawaiian concept that encompasses love, compassion, and respect, was the driving force behind Eddie's every action. Whether he was conquering monstrous waves or rescuing those in danger, Eddie's actions were always guided by his unwavering commitment to his fellow human beings and to the ocean he loved.

A Must-Read for Surfing Enthusiasts and Beyond

"The Story of Eddie Aikau: Hawaiian Hero and Pioneer of Big Wave Surfing" is a captivating and inspiring account of a surfing legend whose life and legacy continue to resonate today. Through vivid storytelling and breathtaking imagery, this book transports readers into the world of Eddie Aikau, allowing them to experience the thrill of his surfing adventures, the challenges he faced, and the enduring impact he had on the sport and the world.

Surfing enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in stories of courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit will find this book utterly captivating. Eddie Aikau's legacy is a timeless reminder that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of aloha and the pursuit of excellence can triumph.

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