The word “waterman” gets tossed around a lot in surfing, especially in reference to big waves. Someone who truly embodied that word, that essence of being, that way of life, was the legendary Clyde Aikau, who passed away after a battle with cancer over the weekend; he was 75 years old.
As the younger brother of Eddie Aikau, Clyde was a staple in preserving Hawaiian culture, being a steward of aloha, and charging big waves well into his later years. In the prestigious surf contest in honor of his late brother, the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, which is only held when the waves top 40 feet at Waimea Bay, Clyde was a mainstay. He won the event in 1986, and he continued to compete in the competition up until the 2016 iteration when he was 66 years old.
So, in honor of the late legend, we decided to hear from a handful of surfers who had the pleasure of surfing, sharing waves, talking story, or simply being around Clyde. Read on for memories and tributes.
“Clyde was a really incredible person. He leaves an incredible legacy just like his brother Eddie. He was always so encouraging to the young up and coming generation, such an awesome mentor to many! For me personally, he always reminded me of what was important. Be there for your family, sharing the Stoke of wave riding, and giving back to others. He was so much more than words could describe. On top of it all, The Eddie Invitational wouldn’t be here without him. Rest in Peace Clyde!” – Kai Lenny
“Clyde was always so inclusive whenever I saw him. At the Eddie ceremony he would always make everyone feel so welcome, he was an incredible ambassador of Aloha. He was also super inspiring. A few years ago, in his last Eddie event I had a heat with him and he was sending it on some big bombs. He truly lived a passionate life for as long as he possibly could. You can’t do better than that.” – Shane Dorian
Related: Hawaiian Big Wave Icon Clyde Aikau Passes Away at 75
“Uncle Clyde was like a living legend. He connected the past to the present. A true ambassador of aloha and the sport of surfing. When uncle Clyde spoke, people listened because everyone respected him, valued his words and admired him. He will be remembered as one of the greats. A celebrated Hawaiian waterman, father, uncle, friend. Legends never die, his legacy will live on just like his brother Eddie Aikau.” – Moana Jones Wong
Ellis
“Honestly my biggest dream I had as a kid growing up was to be the first person from Maui to stand on the podium at the Eddie. Uncle Clyde made that dream come true while also taking me in like I was family. Every time I was in his presence it was the biggest honor for me, he was filled with so much energy that produced this aloha spirit that was something I will remember forever. He was special, god put him here to make the world a better place which he did so well. I will miss him dearly but also honor him greatly with love and respect. To the entire Aikau Ohana my love, prayers, and respect is with each and every one of you.” – Billy Kemper
“Uncle Clyde is someone I looked up to & have a lot of love for. One of the uncles that when he talked, I listened in awe. When someone like him passes it feels like an end of an Era, though he left a legacy of his own just like his brother. The Aikau name lives on forever & I cherish the moments I got to share with him. A Hui Hou Uncle Clyde. See you in the next one.” – Landon McNamara
“Really sad losing Clyde Aikau. Man, what a legend. My favorite, most special moment with him – I think it was in 2009, because it was my first time being in the event [the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational], not just an alternate, and of course they run it – I just told him when I was in the water that it was the most special day of my life, surfing in the event, being there for his brother. And to be surfing with him. It was magical for me. It was so rad being in the event, and sharing waves with him.” – Reef McIntosh
“Uncle Clyde kept it real, kept it Hawaiian and had an aloha spirit that would tower higher and feel stronger than any wave on the planet. When he’d look at you, speak to you, or ride with you, it really felt magical. The real aloha magic. I know he’s enjoying his next adventure with family and friends. I will miss him so much! Love you Aikau Ohana!” – Mason Ho
“Uncle Clyde was a true Hawaiian waterman who paved the way for generations. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on. Deepest condolences to the entire Aikau ‘ohana.” – Ian Walsh
Related: Landon McNamara Talks Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational Win