Mike Hynson, a celebrated figure in the surfing world and co-star of the iconic film "The Endless Summer," has passed away at the age of 82. His contributions to surf culture and his adventurous spirit have left an indelible mark on the sport and its community.
Key Takeaways
- Mike Hynson was a co-star of the legendary surf film "The Endless Summer."
- He was known for his innovative surfboard designs, particularly the Red Fin model.
- Hynson’s life was marked by his adventurous spirit and involvement in the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
- He is remembered not only for his surfing prowess but also for his charismatic personality and style.
A Life in Surfing
Born on June 28, 1942, in Crescent City, California, Mike Hynson grew up in a family that moved frequently between Hawaii and California. His passion for surfing blossomed in the vibrant surf culture of San Diego during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Hynson quickly made a name for himself as a talented surfer and a skilled surfboard shaper.
In 1963, filmmaker Bruce Brown approached Hynson to star in "The Endless Summer," a documentary that followed surfers on a quest for the perfect wave. The film, released in 1966, became a cultural phenomenon, introducing surfing to a broader audience and solidifying Hynson’s status as a surfing icon.
The Endless Summer
Hynson’s role in "The Endless Summer" showcased not only his surfing skills but also his adventurous spirit. The film captured the essence of chasing waves around the globe, from the beaches of California to the shores of Africa and beyond. One of the film’s most memorable moments was Hynson’s discovery of the perfect wave at Cape St. Francis in South Africa, a moment that epitomized the film’s spirit of adventure.
Innovations in Surfboard Design
Beyond his film career, Hynson was a pioneer in surfboard design. His creation of the Red Fin surfboard revolutionized the way surfers approached the waves, providing enhanced edge control and performance. This innovation led to the formation of the "Red Fin Army," a group of surfers who embraced Hynson’s design and helped popularize it in the 1960s.
A Colorful Life
Hynson’s life was not without its challenges. He became associated with the Brotherhood of Eternal Love, a group known for its counterculture ethos and involvement in the psychedelic movement. This period of his life was marked by both creativity and turbulence, as he navigated the complexities of fame and personal struggles.
Despite these challenges, Hynson remained a beloved figure in the surfing community. His charisma, style, and rebellious spirit inspired countless surfers and fans alike. Friends and family remember him as a kind-hearted individual with a mischievous sense of humor.
Legacy and Remembrance
Mike Hynson’s passing has left a significant void in the surfing world. He is survived by his partner, Carol Hannigan, and several stepchildren and grandchildren. A paddle-out ceremony is planned at Windansea Beach in June to honor his memory, celebrating the life of a man who truly embodied the spirit of surfing.
Hynson’s legacy will continue to influence future generations of surfers, reminding them of the joy of chasing waves and the importance of living life to the fullest.
Sources
- The Mysterious, Enigmatic Surf Life Of Mike Hynson, SURFER Magazine.
- Mike Hynson, ‘Endless Summer’ star and surf icon, dies, San Diego Union-Tribune.
- ‘Endless Summer’ star Mike Hynson dies; surf icon known for his style, San Diego Union-Tribune.
- Famed Surf Legend Mike Hynson Dead at 82, Sports Illustrated.
- "Endless Summer" Surf Icon Mike Hynson Passes Away At 82, SURFER Magazine.