Who is known as the "Father of Surfing"?

The title of "Father of Surfing" is attributed to Duke Kahanamoku due to his significant contributions to popularizing the sport of surfing around the world. Duke was a renowned Hawaiian swimmer and Olympic gold medalist who not only excelled in competitive swimming but also became an ambassador for Hawaiian culture. He is credited with introducing surfing to a broader audience, particularly through exhibitions and demonstrations on the mainland United States and in Australia during the early 20th century. Kahanamoku's passion for surfing, along with his charismatic personality and athletic prowess, helped elevate the sport's profile and inspired many to take up surfing, solidifying his legacy as a central figure in its history.

The other individuals listed have made notable contributions in their respective fields, but their impacts did not involve surfing in the same transformative way that Duke Kahanamoku's did.