Dave Kalama is a widely recognized and highly respected individual within the realm of extreme water sports, boasting an impressive portfolio that encompasses big wave surfing, windsurfing, and celebrity watersports.
Kalama is renowned for his groundbreaking contribution to the world of surfing, specifically the innovative technique of tow-in surfing, a pioneering achievement that he shares with an esteemed group of individuals, including Laird Hamilton, Darrick Doerner, and Buzzy Kerbox.
In recent years, Kalama has been dedicated to promoting and mastering the ancient Hawaiian art of stand-up paddling, a traditional mode of water transportation and watersport that has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity.
His unwavering enthusiasm for this discipline has inspired him to embark on a series of solo paddle events between various Hawaiian islands, pushing the boundaries of human endurance and skill to unprecedented levels.
Kalama's impressive athletic abilities transcend the confines of surfing, encompassing a diverse range of sports and activities that showcase his versatility and athleticism. Prior to devoting himself to the world of surfing, Kalama honed his skills as a competitive ski racer in the winter sports resort town of Mammoth Lakes, California, where he also played football at the high school level, demonstrating his adaptability and proficiency in multiple sports.
Kalama's ancestry is steeped in a proud tradition of water-centric pursuits, with his family's storied past deeply rooted in the ocean's rhythms. His grandfather played a pivotal role in popularizing outrigger canoe paddling on the mainland United States, a testament to the family's unwavering dedication to the sport.
Meanwhile, Kalama's father, Ilima Kalama, carved out an illustrious career as a world-champion surfer in 1962, a remarkable achievement that cemented his status as a surfing legend. Moreover, his lifelong passion for outrigger canoe paddling served as a constant source of inspiration for Kalama, fostering a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations of his family.
Kalama, a renowned figure in the world of surf filmmaking, and his esteemed business partner Laird Hamilton, a stalwart of the surfing community, jointly received the coveted Beacon Award at the esteemed Maui Film Festival in July 2006. This distinguished honor is a resounding tribute to their unwavering commitment to safeguarding and celebrating the art of surfing through their tireless efforts in film and other multimedia endeavors.
