Waveriders (2010)

Description: Winner of Best Documentary at the 2009 Surfer Poll Awards, WAVERIDERS tells the little known story of surfing's legendary Irish roots and its surprising connection to today's worldwide surf phenomenon. The story unfolds through the inspirational history of Irish/Hawaiian legendary waterman, George Freeth, who inspired the sport's rebirth among Hawaiian kings in the early twentieth century and is credited as the "Father of Modern Surfing". This ocean-adventure pays tribute to Freeth's forgotten legacy; as the world's first lifeguard and a skillful surfer, he crossed oceans to share what would become a contagious fervor for the sport. With its distinguished cast of world-renowned surfers, WAVERIDERS journeys from Hawaii to California and back to Ireland's shores following Freeth's wave of influence. Renowned British and Irish surfers link up with world champion Kelly Slater, soul surfer Kevin Naughton, and the celebrated Malloy brothers to ride some of the most exciting surf ever seen on Ireland's shores, along with internationally recognized surfers like Richie Fitzgerald, Gabe Davies, Craig Peterson, and Rabbit Kikai. Waveriders' exploration reaches a spectacular climax when the surfers conquer the biggest swell ever ridden in Ireland, as they ride monster waves reaching heights of over fifty feet.