How did you come to know of KIALOA?
I lived on the Big Island of Hawaii, EVERYONE knows Kialoa. Kialoa helped sponsor some key events, donated gear to my homeless paddling initiate, and continue to give back to the community! They live Aloha!
What does being a steward of the KIALOA brand mean to you?
We are all given a short amount of time on this earth. How we spend it is everything! Also the life lessons and gifts that we all carry are meant to be shared. Teaming with Kialoa brand is an honor and causes me to be thoughtful in my actions, word and deeds. When I’m on the water, I want to shine a good light with Kialoa in my hands.
2017 - What events will you participate in?
Kona Ironman World Championships – Water Patrol Surf / SUP Camp for the BlindSurf.
SUP camp for foster youth and Surf Academy in North Korea.
What community events, charity participation or other organizations are you a part of?
I am the Founder of the MIX Academy, a community center in Santa Ana, CA. I also lead the King’s Table Dinner for our homeless friends monthly Social Media Channels.
What's are some of your favorite things to do?
All things ocean! Surf, Paddle, Dive, Spearfishing.
What's your favorite food?
All things from the ocean! Poke, Uni, Kona Kampahi!
What is your favorite restaurant in Hawaii?Hayashi’s Sushi in Kona, HI.
What music are you listening to these days?
U2, Foo Fighters, Bach, Stevie Wonder, Paula Fuga.
Favorite place to visit?
Waimea, Brazil, North Korea, Thailand, Switzerland.
How did you get started in Paddle sports?
It’s part of the culture in Hawaii. Destiny!
What is your pre-race meal? Loco moco
What do you like to eat/drink after paddling? Loco moco
Proudest paddling moment?
Becoming the first American to Paddle North Korean Waterfalls and rivers! What was your scariest paddling experience? Paddling North Korea with Snipers watching me.
Tell us a little about how you train for paddling races?
Cross training and diet is the fuel! All the stuff outside the water.
Where is your favorite place to paddle? The Kona Coast.
Any paddlers you look up to?
Leleo Kinimaka, he shaped my first paddle!
Were did you grow up and what was it like?
Santa Ana, CA. It was beautiful and never a dull moment.
What are some of the crazy fads you and your friends went through?
We had to endure through New Kids on the Block. Remember Garbage Pail Kids cards? Memorizing phone numbers.
What were some things that you and your friends did as kids?
Stay out late, talk to strangers, and having fun at the beach.
Something you want out of life?
Helping others live their dreams and destiny.
What are some qualities that you value in a person? Generous, kind, adventurous.
What inspires you to do ‘good’ in the world?
We can make a real difference in peoples lives!
Proudest accomplishment?
Opening a free community center called theMIX Academy in Santa Ana, CA!
What is something your really proud of and why?
Helping a friend out of homelessness.
Who are your heroes?
People who give up everything to serve and help others.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Bridge-builder, adventurer, learner.
What time of day do you like best and why? Surf time is the best time.
If you were an animal, what would you be? Dragon.
Any nicknames you go by? Lolo.
