On June 12, 2024, Dave Boehne, the son of tandem surfing legends and Infinity Surfboards founders Steve and Barrie Boehne (pictured), gave a special presentation for Historical Society members and guests in the City Hall Council Chambers, sharing the history of his parents and grandparents. The City of Dana Point had honored Steve and Barrie in October 2023 with a bronze statue in Waterman's Plaza, where it joined other local legends of the surfing sport and industry. More of the family's history is at infinitysurf.com/blogs/steves-stories, and a recording of the program, Surfing Legends: The Boehne Family Legacy, is on our Films page.
Recap: The June 12, 2024 Program
On June 12th, 2024, Dave Boehne, son of legendary tandem surfers Steve and Barrie Boehne, presented a heartfelt retrospective on his family's profound impact on the surfing world. The event began with Dave recounting his parents' pioneering efforts in tandem surfing, a unique blend of gymnastics and surfing that brought them international acclaim in the 1970s. Steve and Barrie Boehne's seamless synergy and athletic prowess led them to dominate global competitions, earning them a reputation as the sport's foremost ambassadors. Their innovative spirit didn't just stop at performance; Steve's groundbreaking surfboard designs, crafted meticulously by hand, were also highlighted, showcasing his transition from traditional methods to modern CAD software and CNC machines. Dave's narrative delved deeper into the Boehne family's community contributions, emphasizing their work with organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project. This initiative, among others, reflected their commitment to making surfing accessible to all, particularly disabled veterans and athletes. The Boehnes' efforts in introducing tandem surfing to new regions and promoting its growth were underscored by personal anecdotes that illustrated their relentless passion for the sport. Stories of Steve and Barrie's adventurous spirits, from Barrie's fearless performances at Muscle Beach in her youth to their tandem surfing exploits, painted a vivid picture of a family driven by a love for the ocean and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the waves. The event concluded with a celebration of the Boehne family's numerous recognitions and honors. Steve's induction into the International Shapers Hall of Fame was a testament to his unparalleled contributions to surfboard design, while the commemorative statue of the couple stood as a permanent reminder of their legacy. The session ended on a personal note, with Dave sharing cherished family moments and expressing gratitude for the support of the surfing community. The gathering was not just a tribute to the past achievements of the Boehne family but also an inspiring reminder of the enduring spirit of innovation and community that they continue to embody.