Tamayo Perry, a renowned lifeguard and former professional surfer, lost his life in a tragic shark attack while surfing off Oahu's North Shore on Sunday.
AP News reported that Perry was a highly respected figure in the surfing community with a versatile career, which included acting roles in major films and television shows.
Perry, 49, was attacked by a shark near Goat Island. Responders from Honolulu Ocean Safety and other emergency services arrived at the scene at Malaekahana Beach just before 1 p.m.
Lifeguards brought Perry to shore, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.
During his extensive surfing career, Perry was particularly known for tackling the dangerous waves of the Pipeline off Oahu’s North Shore.
He started surfing professionally in the late 1990s and secured a victory in the Pipeline Master trials in 1999. His fearless approach to the sport earned him respect and admiration from the global surfing community.
Brendan Buckley, reflecting on Perry's reputation, stated that Perry wasn't after world titles. Instead, he focused on capturing and conquering some of the most formidable waves of his time.
“For a while, he was one of the top, top, top people out there. He got some of the craziest waves of his era. He was insanely respected by obviously everybody there and everybody around the world for what he did,” Buckley said.
Aside from surfing, Perry was also known for his roles in films and television shows. He appeared in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" and had an episode feature in “Hawaii Five-0”. His charisma and personality brought a vibrant essence to his roles, whether on screen or teaching aspiring surfers.
Together with his wife, Emilia Perry, he ran the Oahu Surfing Experience, where they provided surfing lessons. Emilia reminisced about their journey, saying, “A few years later, I picked up a surfboard, we got married and there was no turning back. The vast amounts of ocean knowledge that Tamayo has ingrained in me over the years is priceless.”
Perry began working as a lifeguard for the City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety in July 2016. His background in professional surfing and extensive knowledge of the ocean made him an invaluable part of the lifeguarding team. His influence extended beyond the waves, as he consistently advocated for proper surf etiquette and safety.
Rick Blangiardi, a prominent local figure, described Perry as "a legendary waterman and highly respected.” He expressed that Perry’s passing is “a tragic loss.”
In response to the shark attack, Ocean Safety personnel posted warning signs in the vicinity.
This incident recalls the last fatal shark attack in Hawaii, which occurred on December 30 when a man was attacked while surfing off Maui.
Kurt Lager, a close acquaintance, remarked, “Tamayo’s personality was infectious and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more.” The profound impact Perry had on those who knew him is evident in the outpouring of grief and remembrance that followed his untimely death.
Perry’s legacy in the surfing world and his contributions as a lifeguard will be remembered by both locals and the broader surfing community. His passion for the ocean and dedication to safety will continue to inspire future generations of surfers.
In conclusion, Tamayo Perry's tragic passing has left a significant void in the surfing community and beyond.
He was a beloved figure known for his achievements in professional surfing, his acting roles, and his dedication to teaching and safety.
From riding the massive waves at Pipeline to sharing his knowledge through the Oahu Surfing Experience, Perry's influence and legacy will endure. The surfing community mourns the loss of a legend whose adventurous spirit and love for the ocean were unparalleled.
