George Downing changed our game.
George Downing, a surf pioneer and icon, died in his sleep yesterday evening at the age of 87. He was one of those out-sized figures who was there when it was all really beginning in pre-war Waikiki. The first to surf Laniakea and Honolua Bay, he spent much of his life pioneering the Hawaiian islands’ bigger waves. He was a standout at Makaha, winning events there while writing the textbook on how to approach it, and also radically altered the sorts of boards that were ridden.
Surf historian Matt Warshaw writes in the Encyclopedia of Surfing:
Downing’s encyclopedic knowledge of the sport, meanwhile, was looked upon with awe. He was referred to by the world’s most knowledgeable surfers as “the teacher”; ’60s big-wave rider Ricky Grigg called him “the guru.” Downing mentored dozens of top Hawaiian surfers over the decades, including Joey Cabell, Reno Abellira, and Michael Ho.
For the past 30 years he acted as contest director for The Eddie, officially calling the event on or off. Kelly Slater wrote that it was an honor to surf the Bay on Downing’s call.
He is survived by his sons Keone and Kainoa, daughter Kaiulu, grandchildren Kaohi, Kirra, Kainoa, Keola and Nalei, and two great-grandsons.
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Respect mon. Geoge Downing Respect Mon.
Rest in Peace. I am sad, but a small part is also happy, as the physical world had enjoyed his presence for many years, now those in eternity get to know him. And waves of all amazingness await.
Man was as real as they come.
RIP George , and thoughts and prayers to the family , he was a true legend of our sport , and has left a legacy for us all !
RIP George.
You were always a nice guy to my kooky younger self. Like a favourite uncle. Always there with a supportive wise word.