Pro Shaper Profile: Ben Aipa Part 2

Saturday evening's Surf Heritage Museum tribute to Ben Aipa was an event not to miss. Where else would you find a combined 400+ years of shaping experience, legends of the industry, historic boards on display and a chance to hear the legend Ben Aipa speak and be honored by his peers? The night was a mix of story-telling, video presentations, questions and answers and informal "talk-story" time. In a packed room, we watched legend's like Taylor Knox, Kalani Robb, Terry Senate and Rick "Rockin' Fig" Fignetti take the stage to walk down memory lane with Ben and share some of their greatest moments and discuss the impact he's had on their careers, the industry and in some cases, personal lives. Shaun Thompson recorded an heartfelt audio tribute to Ben that the audience was able to listen to as well. Ben's illustrious shaping and surfing career is well known, but we heard touching tributes to his life as a mentor, coach and father figure as well. Former professional surfer Conan Hayes was one Hawaiian that Ben took under his wing. Ben coached Conan through the ups and downs of contests and he was there to offer support and guidance in life too. Conan showed his gratitude by giving Ben a check for $50,000. 50 years is a great milestone and we are happy to see that Ben has been a part of so many successful surfing and life stories.