Description
Surfer Dudes Legends ‘n Pets Teahupo’o Tiki
Grew up Polynesia, taught to surf by Rincon Rex. Likes to claim he was the first human to surf. Claim is widely disputed; Rincon Rex says he taught many humans in Polynesia to surf well before he taught Teahupo’o Tiki. Moved to Hawaii, went to University of Hawaii. Joined surfing team. Became good friends with Waikiki Woodie; Teahupo’o Tiki is Costa Rica Rick’s godfather. Likes to surf with a mask inspired by Kanaloa, says it gives him special powers that make his surfing moves even more awesome. Found Toucan Tiki who tells him endlessly, “The Bird is the Word,” on a Costa Rican trip with Rincon Rex. Loved that Toucan was naturally as colorful as his mask. Together they are often called the Tiki Twins.
Mantra: “Everyone has a surf mate, if you’re even luckier, a twin; take time to find yours”
Home Break: Honolulu
Fave Surf Spot: Teahupo’o
Bust Out Move: Closeout Re-entry
Fuels up on: Pineapple, lilikoi, chicken long rice, lomi lomi salmon, and a lot of cereal, especially for Toucan Tiki who seems to have a bit of a sweet tooth
Best Surf Memory: “The first time Toucan Tiki and I were called the Tiki Twins—I just knew we were a great team and was so happy to have others see our chemistry on the surf”
Best Beach Buds: Toucan Tiki, Rincon Rex, Waikiki Woodie, Aussie Alice, Surf City Sally
When Not Surfing: “Convincing people I was the first human to surf (though they are never convinced)”
Advice for groms: “Never be afraid to take off your mask and be yourself”
