The Aleutian Islands are a chain of islands that extend west from southern Alaska; they’re known for their extreme weather and nasty seas—the Pacific to the south; the Bering to the north. Alex Gray and Anthony Walsh didn’t just travel here to surf though. The particular island that we were exploring is home to the single longest-settled community in the entire world. The Aleutians who reside there are descendants from a group that migrated from Russia across the Bering Strait over 8,000 years ago; they never left. Gray and Walsh had traveled to the island with hopes of learning some indigenous practices firsthand—hunting, in particular—and teaching the locals how to surf in exchange. No one was making it out of this trip unscathed. – Words by Chris Brinlee Jr.
Archive for the ‘Surfing & SUP’ Category
Ho‘olaule‘a – literally, it means “celebration”, but for us, it’s also an expression of gratitude. Each May, we hold our interpretation of this storied Hawaiian tradition on Maui’s north shore. The event blends elite competition with family-friendly cultural activities and gathers some of the world’s best SUP, OC1 & OC2 paddlers to race the legendary 8-mile Maliko downwind run. Friends and families come together to enjoy canoe sailing and surfing, ancient Hawaiian games, traditional luau, hula, and live music. We take this opportunity to recognize and honor our Ama OluKai Foundation beneficiaries, as the community shares collective gifts of time, energy, and spirit.
A new documentary directed by Keith Malloy, FISHPEOPLE tells the stories of a unique cast of characters who have dedicated their lives to the sea. Featuring Dave Rastovich, Kimi Werner, Matahi Drollet and more.