Authors: Ben Ruhe
Date Submitted: May 31, 2005
Article Type: Journal

“What was my motive for surfing the 70-foot Jaws wave last year? It was fun. If not, I wouldn’t have done it. You challenge yourself. You move the notches upward.”

The speaker is Pete Cabrinha, 44, of Maui, one of the better known water sports competitors. Along with colleague and rival Robby Naish and a few others, he has made a global name for himself as board surfer, windsurfer, and kiteboarder. Like several of his peers, Cabrinha has cashed in on his fame by running a thriving water sports equipment business, with sales around the globe.

“I’m not a daredevil,” he continues. “I take calculated risks. Dynamics come into play. I’m dealing with nature and have to make crucial decisions on the fly. I have to constantly adapt. And if I don’t fall sometimes, I’m not pushing hard enough. I’m clear on that.”

PDF Link: Journal Issue