NZ surf photographer Ric Chan took these 1980’s photos of young surfer Mitch Thorson & surf industry legend Dave Kennedy at South Point on Cowaramup Bay.
Photo: 1980 Mitch Thorson & Dave Kennedy preparing to go surfing at South Point. Photo Credit Ric Chan.
In 1981 Mitch won the coveted Duke Kahanmoku Trophy for the most emerging surfer at the National Surfing Titles held at Bells Beach Victoria.
Images: 1981 Mitch celebrating his Duke award at the Bells Beach contest. Images courtesy of West Coast Surfer mag.
Mitch Thorson won three Australian Surfing Titles before turning Pro in 1983. After a successful ASP career spanning 10+ years he returned to amateur ranks and won a 4th Australian Surfing Title. Mitch now lives & surfs with his family at Margaret River.
Photo: 1981 Mitch Thorson carving on a Star Surfboard at South Point. Photo credit Ric Chan.
Dave Kennedy opened & ran Star Surf & Skate surf shop in Perth city from 1980 until 2006 when at the age of 51 he lost his battle with leukaemia.
Photo: 1980 Dave Kennedy with a Star Surfboard at South Point. Photo credit Ric Chan.
See Surfing WA Celebrating 50 Years book for more details of the two legends.
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