The Surfer's Journal Season 1 Episode 19 Biographies - Rabbit Kekai
- February 16, 2001
- 21 min
The Surfer's Journal season 1 episode 19, titled "Biographies - Rabbit Kekai," is a tribute to one of the most influential surfers in history. Rabbit Kekai, born in 1920 in Honolulu, Hawaii, was not only a pioneer in the sport, but also a fixture in the surf community for over eight decades.
Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into Rabbit's fascinating life and legacy. From his early years surfing the Waikiki break as a child, to his years serving in World War II, and eventually becoming a world-renowned surfer and ambassador for the sport. Along the way, we meet some of the people who have been touched by Rabbit's influence, including world champions, surf legends, and friends.
The show covers Rabbit's incredible surfing career, which included winning six Duke Kahanamoku Invitational Surfing Championships over an eight-year period. Footage from these competitions demonstrates his incredible power and tenacity in the water, showcasing why he deserved to be regarded as one of the best surfers of all time.
In addition to his surfing accomplishments, the episode also explores Rabbit's extensive knowledge of Hawaii's culture and traditions. According to those who knew him, he was deeply knowledgeable about the history of surfing and the role it has played in Hawaiian culture. To Rabbit, surfing was not just a sport, but a way of life that embodied the spirit of Aloha.
Throughout the episode, we're also treated to interviews with some of today's most popular surfers, many of whom were influenced by Rabbit's pioneering style. From Joel Tudor to Rob Machado, each surfer speaks about how Rabbit inspired them to become better athletes and how his legacy continues to shape the sport of surfing today.
Overall, The Surfer's Journal season 1 episode 19 is a touching tribute to the life and legacy of Rabbit Kekai. Through interviews, archival footage, and stunning ocean scenes, viewers come to appreciate not just his surfing prowess, but also his deep connection to the Hawaiian culture and the spirit of Aloha. For anyone who loves surfing or admires the sport's history, this episode is a must-watch.