Surfing is something many people enjoy. Anywhere there's an ocean you are likely to see at least one or two people out there catching some waves, or at least trying to. It's not only a popular way of having some fun, it can also be a very lucrative sport. There are competitions held around the world, where contestants are able to win trophies, thousands of dollars, and a title.
This sport is thought to have originated in Hawaii. When the first Europeans arrived on the islands it can be said that they were a bit taken aback by seeing the native islanders frolicking in the water and standing on very long heavy boards as they glided through the breaking waves. This was something mainland people had never encountered before.
The sea was, and still is, sacred to Hawaiians. Harnessing the power of the waves through the use of a board was considered a highly skilled craft. The better boards were made for the higher standing people, but the commoners were also allowed to make and use boards, just not of as high quality. Board making and surf riding were not complete without certain ceremonies being performed, and many of these ceremonies still take place today.
The strength of the certain kings was able to overcome attempts by white missionaries to have this sport banished for good. When great numbers of foreigners began appearing, they also had a negative effect on the culture, but in the end, no one could stop the Hawaiians from riding their boards.
During the 1900's, A man by the name of Duke Kahanamoku became a hero to many people in the islands when he began spreading the news about surfing around the world. A statue of him was erected on the beach of Waikiki located on the southern side of Oahu.
During the winter months on the island of Oahu, you will find numerous wave-riding competitions. From Waimea Bay, to Sunset Beach, during the colder months, not only does the rain increase, but so does the size of the waves. The waves at Pipeline Beach are some of the most famous in the world. A great number of people have died trying to surf the monstrous waves created there, but the Pipeline Master's Competition is still held there today despite the many risks.
Learning how to surf isn't something that is easily learned. It takes a lot of time and practice become skilled at surfing. Once you get on your feet and are able to catch your first wave, it's possible this sport will become something you want to pursue further. If you live near the ocean, the chances are even better that you will be spending your days trying to master your board and become one with the waves.
This sport is thought to have originated in Hawaii. When the first Europeans arrived on the islands it can be said that they were a bit taken aback by seeing the native islanders frolicking in the water and standing on very long heavy boards as they glided through the breaking waves. This was something mainland people had never encountered before.
The sea was, and still is, sacred to Hawaiians. Harnessing the power of the waves through the use of a board was considered a highly skilled craft. The better boards were made for the higher standing people, but the commoners were also allowed to make and use boards, just not of as high quality. Board making and surf riding were not complete without certain ceremonies being performed, and many of these ceremonies still take place today.
The strength of the certain kings was able to overcome attempts by white missionaries to have this sport banished for good. When great numbers of foreigners began appearing, they also had a negative effect on the culture, but in the end, no one could stop the Hawaiians from riding their boards.
During the 1900's, A man by the name of Duke Kahanamoku became a hero to many people in the islands when he began spreading the news about surfing around the world. A statue of him was erected on the beach of Waikiki located on the southern side of Oahu.
During the winter months on the island of Oahu, you will find numerous wave-riding competitions. From Waimea Bay, to Sunset Beach, during the colder months, not only does the rain increase, but so does the size of the waves. The waves at Pipeline Beach are some of the most famous in the world. A great number of people have died trying to surf the monstrous waves created there, but the Pipeline Master's Competition is still held there today despite the many risks.
Learning how to surf isn't something that is easily learned. It takes a lot of time and practice become skilled at surfing. Once you get on your feet and are able to catch your first wave, it's possible this sport will become something you want to pursue further. If you live near the ocean, the chances are even better that you will be spending your days trying to master your board and become one with the waves.
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