How Surfing Has Evolved Over the Years
Surfing could be just the next Olympic sport. Though huge efforts are yet to be made to include this fierce sport in the prestigious Olympic games, it might be very well nearing it. Nowadays, surfing has gained massive popularity all over the globe.
It is reminiscent of the ancient Hawaiian culture. He e nalu or wave sliding is the first known occurrence of the sport on Hawaii. Ancient Hawaiian folks often seek the prayers of the kahlua or the priest, to ask for the sea to provide them with good waves, which are essential to the sport. Wave sliding does not only serve as a traditional pastime, it also was used as a form of training exercise for the early folks.
One of the first missionaries in Hawaii, Captain James Crook perceived surfing as a sport that brings evil to man. Introduction of the western religion aimed to eradicate the supernatural elements of the sport. As western lifestyle has been penetrating the Hawaiian culture, surfing has dramatically declined.
In the 1900’s surfing experienced a rustic revival. This vibrant sport was brought into life again by a group of Hawaiian teenagers, the Beach Boys of Waikiki. At first it was thought that only native Hawaiians were the only ones who possess the ability to ride amongst the waves. This notion changed when a Hawaiian Irish, George Freeth, became the first promotional surfer. It only took a matter of years to spread this fierce sport to other countries. In 1915, surfing was introduced to Australia by Duke Kahanamoku.
In the 20th century, from this date onwards, surfing has been climbing the ladder of success inch by inch. An advanced surfboard design was produced in the 1920’s. In 1928, the first ever-surfing competition was held. In the modern times, advancements for this sport have been taking place. Improved materials for the surfboard were sought; this led to the use of new and better surfboard materials, fiberglass and modern Styrofoam. Jack O’Neil produced the first ever wet suit for surfing; the specialized material of the wetsuit enabled the surfers to tolerate the cold temperatures of the water.
Surf culture has also influenced several clothing brands that are hot in the market right now. Surfing also proves to be a very lucrative sport, with professional surfers earning as much as 120,000 dollars for every competition.
Indeed, surfing has come a long way and with its growing popularity, it is not far from impossible that the sport might be included in the Olympics in the near future.
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