- WSL
- WSL

On May 4, professional surfing co-founder, Vans Triple Crown of Surfing Executive Director, and global surfing icon Randy Rarick announced his full retirement.

Surfing legend Randy Rarick  (USA) and all-star announcer Nuno Junet (PRT). Surfing legend Randy Rarick and all-star announcer Nuno Junet. - WSL / Laurent Masurel

Rarick's announcement came during the Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony where he was honored as a "Pioneer." He now passes the torch to a newly-structured World Surf League (WSL) Hawaii team that will be led by General Manager Jodi Wilmott.

With combined passions for surfing, surf travel and professionalism, Rarick paved the way for generations of surfers, and lasting, positive impacts of his contributions will be felt for generations to come.

"My efforts along the way have always been to honor the sport of surfing and the meaning it has brought to my life and countless others around the world," Rarick said. "Surfing is truly, uniquely Hawaiian and I'm honored to have had a career that has shaped and spanned my entire life. I would also like to honor others along the way who have helped me to do that, including Fred Hemmings, Buffalo Keaulana, Rell Sunn and Gerry Lopez."

Sunny Garcia (HAW), giving a carve clinic during his Heritage Series heat at Pipe. Sunny Garcia giving a carve clinic during the 2014 Heritage Series contest at Pipe. - WSL / Laurent Masurel

Inducted alongside Rarick was Sunny Garcia, 2000 World Champion and six-time Vans Triple Crown of Surfing champion, whose superlative career has spanned 30 years under Rarick's watch.

Garcia has accepted a position as Youth Mentor and Development Officer with WSL Hawaii and will work with the regional team to support up-and-coming local talent through mentoring, competitive guidance and developmental opportunities.

"Today is about giving back to the kids and to promote surfing in the same way Duke Kahanamoku did, to show people what a great place we have here in Hawaii," Garcia said to the ceremony's guests. "Randy, I appreciate everything you've done for surfing. Without you, I wouldn't be here today."

WSL Hawaii continues to be supported by its core team of Faith Wenzl, Bert Ishimaru, Sean Wingate and Marty Thomas.

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