Legendary Native Hawaiian Surfer Derek Ho has passed away at the age of 55
Iconic surfer Derek Ho has died at age 55 of a suspected heart attack. He was admitted to hospital, slipped into a coma and passed away on Friday night (Hawai'i time).
Derek Ho, known for decades around the surfing community as "Uncle D" became the first Hawaiian native to claim a world championship under the banner of the Association of Surfing Professionals, now known as the World Surf League. He is one of the most decorated Hawaiians in competitive history, winning the World Title in 1993, the Pipe Masters in 1986 and 1993, and the Triple Crown in 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1990.
Born in 1964, Uncle Derek had remained one of surfing's most widely, internationally beloved figures, as well as a Pipe standout into his mid-50s.
Ho was surfing royalty and revered for his feats at the infamous Pipeline break on Oahu's North Shore. He was the brother of professional surfer Michael Ho, 2nd cousin to popular Honolulu nightclub entertainer Don Ho and the uncle of current elite professional surfers Mason and Coco Ho.
The smallest male world champion at 5'4", 125 pounds, Ho was quick-footed, with a sharp, angular, slightly formulated attack. Tuberiding was his strength, and in hollow waves, especially at Pipeline, he rode with sublime precision and elegance.
Read more about Derek and the Ho surfing legacy in this Free Surf interview here
Our thoughts and condolences to the Ho family.
Watch Unce D still surfing Pipeline at 55yrs old earlier this year in April in the video below