George Downing: Big-wave surfing legend
Whenever somebody talks about the most thrilling form of surfing, big-wave riding, the first name that pops into mind is that of George Downing. One of the pioneers of big-wave surfing in 1940’s, Downing had more than just rode the big waves, he studied
them and revolutionized the act of big wave surfing with his research and surfboard designs.
Downing has disseminated the knowledge of surfing gained through his research to everyone he met. The long time director of the big-wave event, The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau, Downing was the man entrusted with the responsibility to decide whether
the surf was substantial enough to meet the 20-foot minimum for the contest. He possessed a strong heart to send the brave athletes into the open ocean to face the intimidating waves.
Downing was born in Honolulu in 1930. He was just nine years old when he rode his first wave at Waikiki and at the age of twelve, due to problems between his mother and father, he was sent to live with his aunt, who was married to the legendary surfer, Wally
Froiseth at that time. Froiseth got divorced to Downing’s aunt later, but decided to take Downing under his wing to ensure that he graduates from school. During his stay with his uncle, Downing started to become more and more involved in surfing. With Froiseth
as his mentor, he became quite adept at surfing.
By 1949, Downing, accompanied by Froiseth and Russ Takaki, were visiting Makaha and the North Shore to surf giant waves. It was a time when big-wave riding was still in its infancy and there was no reward for surfing beyond the mere satisfaction of the act
itself. However, that alone was a good enough motivation for Downing to spend most his day on the beach, riding as well as studying the waves. He was interested in understanding the waves and refining tactics and equipment, as his knowledge about the waves
and surfboard construction allowed him to create the earliest quivers. Downing is credited with designing and building the first true big-wave surfboard, in 1951 when he combined the hot curl boards with a fin that he had seen on a visit to Malibu, California.
As far as his surfing career goes, Downing took part in a number of surfing competitions. In 1951, he met with his first ever success in the Makaha International. The Hawaiian managed to triumph in the Makaha International in 1961 and 1965 as well. He finished
seventh at the 1965 World Championships. Downing also collected victories in numerous paddleboard races, as he coached the Hawaiian Team to victory in the 1968 World Surfing Championships.
Downing’s research and knowledge had given him a strong grasp over water and waves. This allowed him to revolutionise the act of surfing by shifting the focus from survival in the water to pulling off thrilling tricks.
Downing’s long-time friend, Steve Pezman said, “Downing is very analytical in his surfing. He thinks about what’s going to happen and how he’s going to play the game. George combines athletic skills with innate and acquired knowledge of surfboard design.”
Downing has acted as a mentor to a number of Hawaiian surfers, as he has also worked as one of the popular Waikiki beachboys for more than thirty years.
Due to his vast knowledge about surfboard designs and his first ever big-wave surfboard, Downing gained the confidence in his ability to create outstanding boards. This led him to start Downing Hawaii, a business that dealt in the manufacture of surfboards.
The venture is currently being run by his son, Keone.
In order to pay a tribute to his impact in the world of surfing and all the various services rendered by him to help in the progression of the sport, Downing will be inducted in the 2011 Surfers’ Hall of Fame in August. The owner of Huntington Surf and Sport,
and found of HOF, justified Downing’s induction and said, "[He] is one of the all time greats."
Downing’s induction into the HOF will affirm the fact that he is a true legend of big-wave surfing and a tremendous athlete. His contribution to surfing can be seen around the world, across many beaches, each time a surfer hits the waves.
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