Surfski Knowledge Base

“Barnacle” is a term used in Bellingham, WA. to refer to an older paddler (60+ yrs old). Typically our barnacles are still tenacious racers and/or downwind enthusiasts. Also sometimes referred to as “ancient murrelets”.¹⁾ 70+ yr old paddlers are called “Grand Barnacles”

• Other paddling communities have similar designations such as the 60+ yr old “Fossils” on Oahu, and “Crustaceans” in Vancouver, Canada. Hawaiian paddlers often use the general cultural term of “Kupuna” - It translates to “grandparent,” “elder,” or “ancestor”. The term holds deep cultural significance. A kupuna is highly respected as a living treasure and a vital source of ancestral knowledge, wisdom, and life lessons.