Duke Kahanamoku Speaks in Rare, Unearthed Interview (Video)

Per PBS:

“A rare interview with Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary “King of the Surfers,” hosted by Bob Barker. Duke, a 76-year-old surfing legend, discussed his ancestry, Olympic achievements, and Hollywood career. He competed in the 1912, 1920, 1924, and 1932 Olympics, winning gold medals in swimming and playing water polo.

“Duke lived in Hollywood for 10 years, appearing in several films. He highlighted his involvement in surfing and swimming halls of fame and his vision for a Hall of Fame in Hawaii. Duke also shared his love for fishing and his large surfboard, which weighs 114 pounds. He expressed a preference for the old days over modern Hawaii.”

Duke’s legacy on surfing can not only be untouched, but it can still be felt today – from statues on Waikiki Beach honoring him, to the ethos he embraced.

As he once was attributed to saying:

“You know, there are so many waves coming in all the time, you don't have to worry about that. Take your time—wave come. Let the other guys go; catch another one."

Per Matt Warshaw’s Encyclopedia of Surfing:

“Kahanamoku died of a heart attack in 1968 at age 77. He was married, but had no children. Kahanamoku was the first inductee into the International Surfing Magazine Hall of Fame (in 1966), as well as the Huntington Beach Surfing Walk of Fame (1994). From 1964 to 1972, the Duke Kahanamoku Award was given to the best all-around surfer at the annual United States Surfing Championships.”

Gone, but not forgotten.