In the world of surfing, Kelly Slater stands as a true legend, still competing and triumphing in professional tournaments at the age of 51. With 11 World Surf League titles and 56 individual victories, Slater’s name is etched in the sport’s history. Yet, beyond his achievements, Slater holds a deep admiration for his idol, Tom Curren.

Recently, on his Instagram story, Slater paid an incredible tribute to the influential surfing great, Tom Curren, on his birthday. Acknowledging Curren’s timeless impact on the surfing world, Slater expressed his heartfelt birthday wishes to him.

Kelly Slater’s Heartfelt Tribute to Tom Curren

In a thoughtful Instagram story, featuring a picture of Curren, Slater honored his role model’s profound influence during the ’80s and ’90s. He recognized Curren’s unintentional but significant contribution to shaping the style and approach of every surfer through his unmatched board designs and innovative wave-riding techniques. 

On his 59th birthday, Slater penned, “HBD to the greatest ever, in my opinion, Tom Curren. It’s probably impossible for today’s generation to know what impact Tom had in the 80s and 90s. He influenced every surfer’s style and approach to a huge degree without intentionally trying. He is probably unaware of the impact for the most part but his board designs, style and approach to riding waves were unmatched for many years. Thanks, Tom!”

Tom Curren: An inspiring hero

This is not the first time Slater is seen praising or talking about Curren’s contributions. Before this, he said that Curren “Has been my hero” in an Instagram post. As Curren retired, Slater stepped into the spotlight, setting records and solidifying his status as a surfing legend. Yet, he continues to hold Curren in high esteem, recognizing the enduring impact he made on the sport. 

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It all started when Curren was 18 years old. At the age when people struggle to find their life purpose, this legend joined Windansea Surf Club in La Jolla in California. And ignited his passion for surfing. Post this, he honed his surfing skill for almost two years on vacation in Hawaii. Curren’s fascination with the sport deepened, leading him to explore the art of designing his surfboard. After two years of meticulous refinement, his groundbreaking surfboard design gained recognition and acceptance among professionals in 1960, forever changing the course of surfing history.

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