Don Oakey, one of a small group of La Jolla surfers who first surfed Windansea in 1937, has passed away. Don has made many contributions to surfing, the most visable and lasting is the shack at Windansea, which he designed. The shack has become a symbol of surfing recognized around the world. Don, we’ll miss you.
Thanks for the note on the passing of Don. Windansea is a magic place where legends seem to still live. In September I sat there alone for a while under the grass shack and thought of the many who had been there and paved the way for what we now know to be surfing. I was recently given a T-shirt as a gift with the original red Windansea Surf Club logo which I cherish. Don will always be remembered.
I did not know Don, but I’m sure he was a great guy. Windansea was the first wave/break that really kick my butt. It has come closer to killing me then any other wave two time I have just bearly made it to dry sand on my hands and knees. Once in 1959, and once in 1965, I have not surfed it since. I have spent some time in the shack. Think you Don.