The History Of Surfing In Hawaii

By Rebecca McKeich

Happy are the folks that can be found surfing on the sea. It has been enjoyed by many, king and commoner alike, but that is not the only draw to it. A lot of money can be won by competing, as well as a trophy and a much coveted title.

This sport is thought to have originated in Hawaii. When the first Europeans arrived on the islands it can be said that they were a bit taken aback by seeing the native islanders frolicking in the water and standing on very long heavy boards as they glided through the breaking waves. This was something mainland people had never encountered before.

The sea was, and still is, sacred to Hawaiians. Harnessing the power of the waves through the use of a board was considered a highly skilled craft. The better boards were made for the higher standing people, but the commoners were also allowed to make and use boards, just not of as high quality. Board making and surf riding were not complete without certain ceremonies being performed, and many of these ceremonies still take place today.

As various outside missions spread to the islands and the happy surfers were keenly observed, the missionaries branded this act as less than desirable. They tried to make riding of surfboards forbidden to the natives. Many strangers to the land also aided the missionaries in their quest to put a stop to this activity. Kept alive by certain kings, surfing continued to flourish, despite the opposition.

During the 1900's, A man by the name of Duke Kahanamoku became a hero to many people in the islands when he began spreading the news about surfing around the world. A statue of him was erected on the beach of Waikiki located on the southern side of Oahu.

The winter weather on Hawaiian shores, especially Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach and the Pipeline Beach on Oahu produces some of the most fantastic waves in the world. This brings to the islands world class competitions, such as the Pipeline Master's Competition. These athletic meetings sometimes result in the death of surfers, taking on the horrendous waves found there. That however, does not seem to deter the competitors.

After putting in your time and taking your lumps learning how to ride a surfboard, it might be something you feel you were born to do. It may seem like forever, but when you have finally conquered gravity and have managed to stay on your board, it might be hard to ignore the waves from then on. If your travels take you near a beach, looking for a local surfing rental shop might just be the highest thing on your priorities for the day.

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