Rabbit Kekai
We are honored to have this most legendary waterman, original Waikiki Beach Boy, as a member of our team. He is considered the" Father of Modern Hotdogging".
Born November 11th, 1920, Rabbit Kekai rode his first wave in 1925. For more than eighty years the ocean has been his playground, his home and his own personal arena of excellence. He is an icon and mainstay in surfing's elite history. Rabbit obtained international notoriety in the newsreels of the 40's and 50's when the rest of the world was first introduced to men riding wooden planks in the pristine waters and surf of the Hawaiian Islands. His contest record is unparalleled and he is still winning contests around the globe.
His knowledge of the sea has made him a Master Waterman and he has successfully competed in paddleboard racing, tandem surfing, canoeing, outriggers and surfing contests. At 80, Rabbit is still one of the toughest competitors you'll ever face in a heat.
His life and exploits have made him an icon in the sport, but anyone who has ever met this man has found a truly humble and most generous person. Having long been considered the King of Hawaiian Surf Lore, Rabbit is the ultimate storyteller. He weaves stories of legendary surf and the people who mastered the sport.
He has traveled the globe many times over as the World's Greatest Ambassador for the sport of surfing. His influence has made him a living legend. The annual Toes on the Nose Rabbit Kekai Longboard Classic has been our tribute to one of the true Kings of Surfing. After a long successful run Rabbit's contest will be coming home to Waikiki. This year’s event will be held in conjunction with the celebration of his mentor and surfing buddy’s Duke Kahanamoko’s Ocean Fest /birthday. The Toes on the Nose Rabbit Kekai Hawaiian Longboard Classic will run August 26-29th.
Congratulations Rabbit Kekai on the prestigeous SIMA Lifetime Acheivement Award 2006
See historical footage of Rabbit Kekai surfing
See Rabbit Kekai talk about learning to surf
Read more about legendary Rabbit Kekai:
Interview about Rabbit Kekai's training with legendary Duke Kahanamoku
Honolulu Advertiser January 7, 2001
wikipedia
surfline
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