Last month, the world surfing community lost a legend. Dudley Whitman, adventurer, inventor, war hero, filmaker, waterman and surfer, passed on to that big reef break in the sky after 91 years gracing our globe. The firsts are many with this man including pioneering surfing in Florida (1930's), introducing hollow surfboard design to Hawaii, pioneering underwater filmmaking (Acadamy Award winner), commercialized fiberglass boat building...and humbly sharing his surf stoke and passion with South Florida's surfing and history communities.
The stoke NEVER left Dudley. He was at it until the end - at 90 doing more in a day than most do in a week. And in the most gracious and fun loving manner. (by Robert Kahn)
Last weekend, Irene struck a tragic blow and took Fico Fernandez away to 
that spitting beach break in the sky.
that spitting beach break in the sky. Most of you growing up surfing in South Florida in the 70's probably knew of Fico Fernandez. He was truly a South Florida surfing legend. For those of us who did know Fico, we knew him as a friend, a brother, and a mentor. Always even keeled and always a happy and positive energy to be around.
Our brother Fico passed away this past Sat. morning surfing the hurricane swells from Irene at New Smyrna Inlet. Fico left us doing what he loved to do. An amazing family man, teacher, musician, surfer and just an all around awesome person, he will be truly missed by all of us. Rest in peace brother. (by Steve Rosenberg)
A memorial service and paddle out is scheduled for this Sunday, Sept. 4th at Sapphire Beach in New Smyrna beginning at 5:00pm.