Honolulu, Hawaii – The surfing world mourns the loss of Tamayo Perry, a beloved surfer and lifeguard hailing from Hawaii. Perry tragically passed away on Sunday in an apparent shark attack just east of Oahu’s North Shore. At 49 years old, Perry was not only known for his remarkable skills on the waves but also for his appearances in popular films and TV shows, including “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” and “Hawaii Five-0.”
Perry’s legacy as a legendary waterman was celebrated by his surfing community. His surfing instruction business, run with his wife, paid tribute to his passion for the sport while highlighting his dedication to serving the ocean that he loved. The news of Perry’s passing sent shockwaves through the surfing world, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of the man who touched so many lives.
The tragic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon when first responders received a distressing 911 call reporting a surfer fatally injured in a shark attack. Perry was brought ashore by rescuers via Jet Ski but was pronounced dead on arrival. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi described Perry as a “legendary waterman and highly respected,” emphasizing his bravery and unwavering commitment to the community throughout his life.
Perry’s roots in surfing ran deep, having grown up near the renowned Pipeline surfing spot on North Shore. He was no stranger to facing challenging waves, winning the Pipeline Masters trials in 1999. His fearless approach to surfing earned him a reputation as a specialist in Pipeline and Teahupo’o, where he fearlessly tackled massive swells.
While shark encounters are not uncommon in Hawaii, fatalities resulting from water sports incidents are rare. Perry’s tragic death marks the first of its kind this year among surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The surfing community, along with professional surfing organizations, rallied together to honor Perry’s memory and legacy, recognizing his contributions to the sport and his community.