From teenage “water rat” to ocean legend, Cunningham’s fins have seen it all.
“I turned 70 in August, and I still get great joy in swimming, surfing, bodysurfing, and snorkeling,” Cunningham reflects. “I’m very appreciative and filled with gratitude for all that the ocean and my ocean safety career has given me.” Beyond his impressive bodysurfing championships and earning honors like the Quiksilver Eddie Aikau Waterman of the Year award in 1994 and induction into the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame in 2014, Cunningham has been a passionate educator and community builder. He played a key role in starting the statewide Junior Lifeguard
Program, teaching ocean skills and respect for the water, and was a co-founder of the original North Shore Swim Series. “The benefit of the ocean is that it makes us better, happier, healthier people,” Cunningham shares, “and if we can bring that energy back onto land, then there’s certainly value in it.” Both Cunningham and Easton share a deep appreciation for the Outrigger Canoe Club community that has supported their journeys. For Easton, the Club continues to be more than just a training ground—it’s a place of camaraderie and connection. She’s become a familiar presence on the beach during early mornings, often the go-to person for fellow swimmers checking in on the day’s conditions. For her, a perfect day at the Club starts with spotting dolphins, reef sharks, and turtles along her usual swim route—and ends with malasadas on the beach, passed around by fellow members. “It doesn’t even sound like a true story, but it really did happen,” Easton laughs. “The Club is truly a magical place.” As they are celebrated for their inductions into the USA Volleyball and Hawai‘i Swimming Halls of Fame, Berg, Cunningham, and Easton continue to embody athletic excellence and inspiration within the Outrigger Canoe Club community and beyond. ■
september/october 2025 | AMA 23
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software