The State of Hawaii Honors Surfers

By: Jeff Mull | March 10th, 2010 at 12:17am

There are only a handful of places in the world where politicians would set aside issues like a recession, a monumental light rail project, and civil union to honor surfers. Hawaii, thankfully, is one of those places. At the state legislative building today in downtown Honolulu, the State House of Representatives and Senators took a moment and paid homage to the great aquatic figures, both living and deceased, that have helped build the proud history of the Aloha State.

Among those honored today included the likes of Duke Kahanamoku, Eddie Aikau and Rell Sunn who will be recognized posthumously. Other surfing greats to be honored are Clyde Aikau, Ben Aipa, Mitchell Alapa, Derek Ho and Richard "Buffalo" Kalolo'okalani Keaulana.

The event was spearheaded by Rep. Roland D. Sagum.

"We are pleased to have this opportunity to recognize some of our local Polynesians who have been tremendously successful in the sport of surfing, or papa he'e nalu," said Representative Roland Sagum, who is the primary sponsor on the House side. "It is also important for us to help educate the public about the historical and cultural significance of this sport which was once reserved for the Ali'i."

The role that surfing has played in shaping not only the history of Hawaii as an American state, but much rather the history of Hawaiian people in the centuries that predated the touch of Western civilization, cannot be ignored. Surfing is an integral part of the fabric of Hawaiian society, and for the government to honor that is a milestone in our state and in our beloved sport.

"Our honorees are all local Polynesians who have contributed greatly to the popularity of surfing," added Senator Brickwood Galuteria, primary sponsor for the Senate. "It is only fitting that we honor current surfing greats, as well as those who are no longer with us, who have paved the way for this sport worldwide."

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