Big-Wave Pioneer & Renowned Shaper Pat Curren Dies At 90

Pat Curren, a big-wave pioneer on the North Shore, and father to 3x World Champ Tom Curren, has passed away. 

Famed for being one of the best big-wave surfers of the 50’s and 60’s, and for crafting the first ‘big-wave guns’ purpose-built for surfing Waimea, Pat leaves behind three children and a handful of grandchildren. 

Known for being magnetic but “near mute” at times, Pat built a reputation for his quirky sense of humor and often mystifying personality. His big-wave boards such as the “Elephant Gun” are among the ‘Holy Grail’ of surf collectibles, selling for as much as $25,000 USD. 

Pat featured in many first-generation surf movies including Surf Crazy (1959), Barefoot Adventure (1960), Cavalcade of Surf (1962), and Gun Ho! (1963).

There will be a deep dive on Pat’s life to come. 

Rest in peace.