Lane Davey, a pioneering figure in women’s surfing, has passed away at the age of 55 after a courageous battle with stage 4 colon-ovarian cancer. Known for her fearless spirit and dedication to the sport, Lane’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of surfers.
Key Takeaways
- Lane Davey was a trailblazer for women in surfing, particularly at the iconic Pipeline.
- She dedicated over 30 years to surfing and advocating for women’s representation in the sport.
- Lane was also an educator, contributing to the academic study of surfing culture.
- Her fight against cancer was marked by resilience and a desire for recognition of her contributions.
A Life Dedicated to Surfing
Lane Davey’s journey in surfing began in Tennessee, where she developed a passion for the ocean that would lead her to become a fixture at Pipeline, one of the most challenging surf spots in the world. Over the years, she not only surfed the waves but also fought for women’s rights in the sport, pushing boundaries and opening doors for future female surfers.
In the early 1990s, Lane recognized a significant gap in the surfwear market for women. She took it upon herself to create the first female boardshorts, launching her brand, Us Girls, which eventually reached 50 stores across the U.S. and Japan. Her efforts were instrumental in changing perceptions about women’s surfing, proving that it was not only marketable but also deserving of respect and recognition.
Advocacy and Education
Lane was not just a surfer; she was also a dedicated educator. She earned a PhD and taught at the University of Hawaii, where she integrated courses on he‘enalu (surfing) into the curriculum. Her academic work included preserving oral histories and surf reports, ensuring that the contributions of women in surfing were documented and celebrated.
In her own words, Lane expressed her frustration at the lack of recognition for her contributions to women’s surfing. She stated, "It has been painstaking that my contributions to Pipe and women’s surfing have been almost completely unrecognized in recent women’s surf histories."
A Warrior Until The End
Lane’s battle with cancer began in 2023, when she was diagnosed and given a grim prognosis. Despite the challenges, she fought valiantly, continuing to surf and advocate for herself and others in the sport. Her husband, Sean Davey, shared a heartfelt tribute, highlighting her strength and determination: "I’ve never seen anyone fight so hard to live. Lane actually passed away with a smile on her face."
Tributes From The Surf Community
The surfing community has come together to honor Lane’s legacy. Prominent surfers, including Australian champion Stephanie Gilmore and current Queen of Pipeline Moana Jones Wong, have shared their condolences and memories of Lane, celebrating her spirit and dedication to the ocean.
Moana expressed her gratitude for the time spent surfing with Lane, stating, "She was an incredible woman and I am so grateful for all the times I got to surf with her throughout my whole life."
Conclusion
Lane Davey’s impact on women’s surfing and her relentless pursuit of equality in the sport will not be forgotten. As the waves continue to crash at Pipeline, they will carry with them the spirit of a true pioneer who fought for her place in the lineup and inspired countless others to do the same. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched and the waves she rode.
Sources
- R.I.P. LANE DAVEY 2.21.70-4.26.25 | Surf News Network, Surf News Network.
- Lane Davey, pioneer of women’s surfing at Pipeline, dies, Women’s Agenda.
