Racing with Aloha

Book excerpt: “Haywood has a blend of the intellectual, philosopher, athlete, adventurer, quiet warrior, and curious student. This book entertains, informs, and inspires.” —Laird Hamilton No one knows who first put a sail on a surfboard, but everyone would agree that Fred Haywood pioneered the sport of windsurfing. Few know he is also an Olympic contender who swam a record-breaking backstroke alongside his friend Mark Spitz. Before he discovered speed sailing, he surfed with the likes of Gerry Lopez, exploring exotic undiscovered surf spots around the world. Only his friends know how growing up on the island of Maui influenced him to carry his success with humility and generosity, stressing camaraderie over competition and preferring fun over fanfare. Racing with Aloha is a delightful story that will enchant anyone who loves or longs for the timeless mystique of the Hawaiian Islands. Young readers will delight in the story of a youth who swam with sharks—by accident, of course—and who was as surprised as his coach and teammates to find himself featured in Sports Illustrated magazine. Water aficionados will long for the days of surfing undiscovered beaches. And the countless windsurfing enthusiasts who trekked to Maui in the 1980s, following in Fred’s wake, will relish the memories he shares of windsurfing Ho’okipa, the legendary beach still boasting some of the biggest waves in the world. “From being one of the best swimmers on the planet to becoming the fastest man on a windsurfer and so much more, I am honored to know someone as humble and inspiring as Fred Haywood.” —Kai Lenny