Tomorrow, Archie Kalepa, beloved Maui waterman, lifeguard, ocean sports innovator and mentor to OluKai, will be inducted to the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation’s Hawai’i Waterman Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the Outrigger Canoe Club in Honolulu, Hawai’i.
The Hawai’i Waterman Hall of Fame was founded in 2010 to create a lasting tribute to the Hawaiian Islands’ water sports legacy and honor the achievements of standout watermen and waterwomen in Hawai’i. The criteria used to select inductees are:
- Keiki o ka ‘aina / keiki o ke kai
- Sustained outstanding contribution to the sport
- International, national, and local accomplishment and recognition
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In addition to Kalepa, this year’s inductees also include famed big-wave surfer and oceanographer Ricky Grigg; accomplished surfer, waterman and lifeguard Brian Keaulana and instrumental leader in canoe paddling in the Hawaiian islands Michael Tongg. Also being honored are the ancient surfing ali’i of the Royal Family of Hawai’i: HRH Prince David La’amea Kahalepouli Kawānanakoa, HRH Prince Edward Abnel Keli’iahonui, HRH Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana’ole and HRH Princess Victoria Ka’iulani Kalaninuiahilapalapa Kawēkiu-i-Lunalilo Cleghorn. Past Hawai’i Waterman Hall of Fame honorees include Duke Kahanamoku, Eddie Aikau, Wally Froiseth, Fred Hemmings, Buffalo Keaulana, Rabbit Kekai, Keo Nakama, Nappy Napoleon, Rell Sunn, Peter Cole, Ethel Kukea, Aileen Soule and Nainoa Thompson. “As a pioneer, innovator and mentor, Archie has made an impact on each of us at OluKai,” said Kerry Konrady, Director of Marketing for OluKai. “We are humbled to be part of his incredible journey and lasting impact on Hawaiian culture.” Watch Kalepa offer his inspirational message in
OluKai‘s original short film Talk Story series:
