How this iconic big wave surfing family prepares for a day surfing big waves in Pe'ahi
Shaun and DK Walsh are twins who grew up on the beautiful North Shore of Maui. They are known for extreme big wave surfing and have also made a name for themselves as the best in water safety and rescue. Their mentor is none other than older brother and iconic surfer Ian Walsh, so they have had plenty of experience both surfing and running safety operations on many of the biggest waves in the world.
Their roles in their brother’s recent film “Distance Between Dreams,” which chronicles one of the most historic big wave seasons, leave no doubt about just how crucial it is to have a skilled, responsible and dedicated safety operations team. The Twins, along with older brother Luke Walsh, risk their lives for others on a regular basis and have come to be known as the crew you want in the water with you.
In our next episode of HANAH Rituals, we get a behind-the-scenes look at how DK and Shaun prep for a big day running safety ops for brother Ian at legendary surf spot Peʻahi (aka Jaws), where waves can reach 50 feet.
It’s just another day for the Walsh family.
Essential gear
- Yamaha Waverunner High Output (1800)
- Radio communications: Standard Horizon
- Lululemon waterproof clothing
- Buff face protection
Sample of what's in their 4 trauma medical kits (two for the boats, two for the shore + truck):
- Pelican case to keep things dry + safe
- Sharpie markers for noting trauma directly on patient
- Waterproof notebook for recording time, pulse, trauma-type, consciousness state
- Blood stopper
- Backboard + neck brace
- AED
Additional highlights
- Home surf break: Pe’ahi (Jaws)
- Paia bowls: one stop shop for breakfast and lunch
Take a peak at these other HANAH blogs featuring Ian Walsh and brothers:
Rituals is an exclusive HANAH video series that explores the routines of some of the world’s most inspiring athletes, adventurers and entrepreneurs. In an effort to inspire, motivate and share ideas, they have graciously given us a peek into their own rituals. We hope you enjoy this very personal series.