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The wooden boards made by lifelong surfer and cultural practitioner Tom “Pōhaku” Stone (Kanaka Maoli) are heavy and cumbersome compared to the space-age composite boards most modern surfers prefer, but they are a connection to his father, a master board maker, and the generations of Kanaka Maoli surfers before him. Stone is among a growing number of Native Hawaiians nurturing the cultural significance of the sport at a time when many others are focused on technique, expensive gear, and image. Surfing’s rise in popularity means pressure away from the spiritual and healing elements that are so important to Hawaiian culture. We’ll talk with Native surfers about the origins of surfing and how that can map a more meaningful path for the sport’s future.
GUESTS
Kaliko Kahoonei (Kanaka Maoli), waterman
Tom “Pohaku” Stone (Kanaka maoli), cultural practitioner
Sunny Kazama, surfer and college student at the University of San Diego
Break 1 Music: He’eia [A Surfing Chant] (song) Halau Hula Ka No’eau [Hawai’i Arts Ensemble] (artist)
Break 2 Music: Another Night to Cry (song) Blue Moon Marquee (artist) Scream, Holler, and Howl (album)
I’m from New Mexico, Albuquerque. Given not much waves around, I swam before I could walk, I have always been in the water, from competing in swim team, got interested in artistic swimming and then it took a boogie board in that one indoor water park. It made me feel my strength, I am not in no way competitive level, just feels free good to be free. Like power through trials and tribulations! My only real waves on the ocean was Jamaica! Or say successful ride! It’s freeing! And I love feeling the smile that lingers!