On this episode of Beyond the Ocean we are joined by Fred Hemmings, a living surfing legend deemed the “Father of Professional Surfing” and co-founder of the World Surf League. Fred and Beyond the Ocean host, Chris Kluesener, take a trip through the history of surf culture as they look towards the future growth of the culture with regard to the impact brought by surf parks. Fred offers his first-hand accounts and behind the scene insights of iconic and defining surf culture moments as he draws comparisons and differences to what he sees happening now with the rapid development of human-made waves.
ABOUT Fred Hemmings
Fred Hemmings “The Father of professional surfing”, a well-earned title, began surfing in Hawaii at the age of 8. After competitively surfing through his teens and early 20’s Fred retired from competition and began focusing on the business side of creating the surf sports industry. Fred was integral in the creation of some of the most notable competitions to date, including; The Pipe Masters, and The Pro-Am Surfing Championships which would evolve over the years to become the World Surf League’s Championship Tour.
ABOUT The Pipe Masters
The Pipe Masters is considered the longest-standing surf competition ever. Established with the help of Fred Hemmings in 1971 the competition recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and offers the opportunity to showcase the world’s best surfing at the most recognizable surf spot globally. Now put on by the World Surf League, the Pipe Masters rounds out the Vans Triple Crown and fulfills one of the stops for the Championship Tour.
