Darrick Doerner, a trailblazing figure in the world of big wave surfing, has earned a reputation as a pioneer in the sport of towsurfing. His initials, "D.D.", serve as a clever double entendre, referencing both his name and the aptly coined moniker "Designated Driver". This nickname, affectionately shortened to "Double D", has become synonymous with his name, reflecting his status as a true innovator in the sport.
As a big wave surfer, Darrick Doerner is most notably recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to the development of tow-in surfing.
Darrick is an exceptionally skilled and accomplished individual, boasting a multifaceted proficiency in the realm of ocean-based activities. His extensive involvement in a diverse range of water sports has culminated in a comprehensive expertise that encompasses, but is not limited to, the realms of surf, big wave towsurfing, paddle, stand-up paddling, and windsurfing.
Darrick's journey began in the late 1960s and 1970s, a time of great change and growth, in the sun-kissed state of California. As he grew older, his sense of adventure and desire for new experiences led him to relocate to the Big Island of Hawai'i for his senior year of high school, a decision that would ultimately shape the course of his life.
Following his time on the Big Island, Darrick made his way to the North Shore of Oahu, a place that would become his home for many years to come. It was during this period that he developed a deep and abiding connection with the ocean, a bond that would ultimately lead him to pursue a career as a lifeguard.
The time he spent in the ocean had a profound impact on Darrick, not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually. The ocean's power, beauty, and unpredictability captivated him, and he found himself drawn to the thrill and challenge of working in its midst.
As he honed his skills and gained experience, Darrick's passion for lifeguarding only grew stronger. He became a skilled and dedicated professional, always putting the safety and well-being of others above his own. His dedication and expertise earned him a reputation as a top-notch lifeguard, respected and admired by all who knew him.
Darrick's illustrious career in the world of surfing spanned an impressive twenty-one years, from 1975 to 1996, during which time he had the unique privilege of sharing the waves with a coterie of legendary surfers, including the esteemed Eddie Aikau, Mark Cunningham, Terry Ahue, and Brian Keaulana, each of whom brought their own distinct style and expertise to the sport.
Throughout this period, Darrick had the opportunity to learn from a veritable who's who of surfing's most revered figures, including the iconic Peter Cole, the fearless Greg Noll, the innovative Dick Brewer, the trailblazing Reno Abellira, the charismatic James Jones, the enigmatic Owl Chapman, the fearless Sam Hawk, the agile Tiger Espere, and the dominant Michael Ho, each of whom imparted their wisdom and expertise to Darrick, shaping his own approach to the sport and laying the foundation for his future success.
Darrick's tenure as a lifeguard was marked by an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of those around him, particularly in the realm of water safety. This dedication allowed him to hone a range of vital skills, including the ability to expertly navigate the treacherous terrain of massive waves with ease and confidence. His proficiency in big wave surfing was a direct result of his focus on water safety, as he was able to develop a deep understanding of how to read the waves and anticipate their behavior.
Moreover, Darrick's expertise extended to setting the standard protocol for responding to wipeouts and rescuing individuals caught in the midst of large waves. His meticulous approach to these situations ensured that those in need of assistance received the help they required in a timely and effective manner.
In addition to his lifeguarding duties, Darrick also invested time and effort into developing his skills in rescue boat technical handling. He sought out the guidance of renowned expert Shawn Alladio of K38, training in California to refine his abilities in this critical area. Through his dedication to this training, Darrick was able to master the intricacies of rescue boat operation, further enhancing his capacity to respond to emergencies and protect those in his care.
As a result of his extensive training and experience, Darrick emerged as a highly skilled and effective lifeguard, well-equipped to handle even the most challenging situations with poise and precision.
Darrick's formative years were marked by his status as the go-to boating driver and trusted partner of renowned surfing innovators Dave Kalama and Laird Hamilton, who are widely regarded as pioneers in the field of tow-in surfing. This esteemed partnership allowed Darrick to gain valuable experience and insight into the sport, honing his skills and developing a deep understanding of the intricacies involved.
As his skills and reputation continued to grow, Darrick made the bold decision to leave his position as a lifeguard in 1996, opting instead to pursue a new career path as an ambassador for surfing. This move enabled him to leverage his expertise and passion for the sport, working closely with a prominent apparel company to promote surfing culture and values worldwide.
Through his ambassadorial role, Darrick embarked on a global journey, traveling to various destinations to share his knowledge and teach the art of surfing to individuals from diverse backgrounds. His infectious enthusiasm and dedication to the sport have made him a respected and beloved figure in the surfing community, inspiring countless individuals to catch their first waves and pursue their own passion for the sport.
As the years progressed, a collective of like-minded individuals, comprising Darrick among their ranks, pushed the boundaries of their surfing prowess by skillfully navigating the nuances of small waves and turbulent water conditions. This watershed moment in the evolution of the sport was marked by the emergence of tow-in surfing, a revolutionary innovation that catapulted the sport to unprecedented heights. Darrick, in tandem with his fellow pioneers, made a substantial and lasting impact on the development of this cutting-edge discipline. The widespread adoption of the internet and the proliferation of DVDs as a means of disseminating information further accelerated the sport's ascent to mainstream popularity.
