Eddie Aikau was the first official lifeguard at Waimea Bay in Hawaii.
He was also known globally as a formidable big wave surfer.
There is a saying that became popular: “Eddie would go,” which refers to the energy and courage he had to take on big waves that others would avoid, or shy away from – or his willingness to make a rescue in really difficult situations.
Eddie eventually was lost at sea when he attempted to save his crew when their double hulled canoe capsized – he passed away in 1978.
However, due to his courage, he is one of the most respected names in surfing.
It can be super helpful to have a “hero” like Eddie Aikau.
While a mentor may be someone close to you, a hero can be at a distance. Someone you have never met even.
Yet it is someone you feel you “know” almost – you can imagine their posture, their way of being in certain scenarios.
When the situation gets scary, what would your hero do?
Eddie would go.
