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Duke Kahanamoku (1890-1968), known as the father of modern surfing, was also a world-record holder in swimming and an Olympic gold medalist. His surfboard of choice was made of koa wood and weighed an astounding 114 pounds. From Waikiki beach boy to Olympic champion to Hollywood actor and ultimately Honolulu's sheriff, Duke lived a full, rich life. |
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He traveled extensively to promote swimming and surfing and was considered Hawaii's greatest ambassador of aloha. Duke Kahanamoku's welcoming statue at the entrance to Kuhio Beach Park was dedicated in 1990, one hundred years after his birth. The plaque on the statue reads "He has honored his name, he has honored his race, he has honored his state, he has honored us all." |
