Surfing History
[How one single elements makes you ride waves]
The origins of surfing can be traced back to the ancient cultures of Peru, where it was an integral part of the culture. Over time, surfing spread to other parts of the world, and new techniques and equipment were developed to improve performance. Today, surfing is a popular sport that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world.
17th century
West Africans and western Central Africans independently developed the skill of surfing.
18th century
Polynesians developed the practice of standing up on what is now called a surfboard. The influences for modern surfing can be directly traced to the surfers of Hawaii.
1929
Lewis Rosenberg rode the first waves in the UK.
1930
Tom Blake built the first waterproof surf camera housing.
1933
San Onofre was surfed for the first time.
1951
The first surf shop opened in California.
1953
The first surfboard with a foam core was created.
1957
The first surf contest was held in Malibu, California.
1964
The first professional surfing contest was held in Australia.
1966
The first surf leash was invented.
2016
Surfing was added to the list of Olympic sports.