Game Changers Dope #22

Beyond the Waves: The Remarkable Journey of Kelly Slater.

When we think of legendary figures in the world of surfing, one name that immediately comes to mind is Kelly Slater. His legacy extends far beyond the waves, encompassing athletic achievements, successful business ventures, and a deep commitment to environmentalism and philanthropy. Slater is more than just a surfer; he's an entrepreneur and an advocate of a sustainable and clean living lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the remarkable journey of Kelly Slater and the indelible mark he has left on and off the water.

Athletic Achievements

Kelly Slater's journey as a professional surfer is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He quickly developed a passion for riding the waves. His dedication and innate talent led him to become the World Surf League champion an astonishing 11 times. This remarkable feat solidified Slater's status as the greatest professional surfer of all time, a title he continues to hold.

Throughout his illustrious career, Slater has amassed an incredible 56 Championship Tour victories, a testament to his skill, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the sport of surfing. His mastery of the waves has set a benchmark that surfers around the world aspire to reach.

Business Ventures

While Kelly Slater's prowess on the water is undeniable, his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen have also contributed significantly to his legacy. Slater is not just a professional surfer; he is a shrewd businessman who has diversified his interests, ensuring a bright future even after his surfing days are over.

One of his most notable ventures is the Kelly Slater Wave Company, which operates the renowned Surf Ranch. This artificial wave park, with an estimated worth of US$30 million, is a groundbreaking innovation in the world of surfing. The Surf Ranch provides the ultimate surf setting, offering surf enthusiasts the highest levels of service and experiences. Slater's dedication to improving the sport extends beyond competition and into the realm of providing a unique and controlled surfing environment for enthusiasts of all levels.

Outerknown, a clothing brand co-founded by Kelly Slater, stands as a testament to his commitment to sustainability and transparency. The brand embodies effortless and casual beach styles while remaining rooted in principles of eco-friendliness. Outerknown prides itself on being the first brand founded on a total commitment to sustainability, reflecting Slater's values and passion for a cleaner, greener world.

Firewire, another one of Slater's ventures, is dedicated to elevating the surfing experience through innovative design, new materials, and advanced construction methods. Every surfboard, traction pad, and leash produced by Firewire is designed with a single goal in mind – to enhance the surfing experience while minimizing its environmental impact.

In addition to his ventures in surfing and fashion, Kelly Slater has branched out into the world of spirits. Solento Organic Tequila, a collaboration between Slater and filmmaker Taylor Steele, combines classic tequila flavor with sustainable and organic practices, resulting in a modern and eco-conscious spirit.

Furthermore, Slater has created the KLLY Sandal, a testament to his commitment to the environment. These sandals are made using rPET and BLOOM foam, derived from algae, showcasing his dedication to sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials in his business ventures.

Slater launched also the beverage company Purps in collaboration with RVCA founder Pat Tenore and Dr. Chris Schaumburg. This project showcases his ability to diversify into various fields while maintaining a commitment to products and initiatives that align with his values. Additionally, Slater has been a brand ambassador for The Chia Company, further underscoring his support for brands that promote health, sustainability, and conscious living.

Environmentalism and Philanthropy

Kelly Slater is not just a businessman or a surfer; he is also a dedicated advocate of a sustainable and clean living lifestyle. His commitment to environmentalism and philanthropy extends beyond his professional life.

As a fundraiser and spokesperson for suicide prevention awareness, Slater uses his influence to bring attention to critical issues that affect society. He has participated in celebrity events for Surfers Against Suicide, lending his voice to the cause.

Moreover, Slater is passionate about preserving oceans globally and protecting temperate reefs in California through his relationship with Reef Check. His dedication to marine conservation reflects his profound connection to the ocean and his determination to safeguard it for future generations.

Furthermore, Kelly Slater sits on the Board of Advisors, known as the Ocean Advocacy Advisory Board, of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, an organization dedicated to protecting marine life and ecosystems worldwide. His involvement in this organization showcases his deep-rooted commitment to environmental causes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kelly Slater is a living legend whose legacy extends far beyond the world of professional surfing. He has achieved unprecedented success on the water, securing 11 World Surf League championships and 56 Championship Tour victories, making him the most dominant surfer in history.

However, it's not just Slater's athletic achievements that make him extraordinary; it's his ability to transition from an iconic surfer to a successful entrepreneur and an advocate for sustainability.

In all these aspects, Kelly Slater's legacy is a testament to the heights one can reach with dedication, passion, and a commitment to making the world a better place. He is a role model for athletes, entrepreneurs, and advocates of sustainability, and his impact will continue to ripple through the world for generations to come. Kelly Slater is not just a surfer; he is a force for positive change.

MONEY MOVES

• MLS Star Sebastian Giovinco Joins Ownership Group of Pro Padel League Toronto Polar Bears. Full story here.
• Maxx Crosby Tackles New Investment with Slate Milk. Full story here.
• Alpine and Otro Capital have welcomed some of the world's biggest sports stars as new strategic investors into their €200m fund, including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Rory McIlroy, and Anthony Joshua. Full story here.

ATHLETE CREATORS

On the Riding Unicorns, podcast about venture capital, entrepreneurship and technology, Chris Smalling - AS Roma Footballer - shares his vision about investing aligned with your values, and how he helped launch The Player's Fund alongside other top investing athletes such as Ben Stokes, Stuart Broad and Hector Bellerin. Listen episode here.

WTF BRANDS

Premier League champion, football player Christian Fuchs created a line of liquors including vodka, gin, and rum: NoFuchsGiven distillery. Fuchs has also leveraged his NoFuchsGiven brand to start a line of clothing. The website NoFuchsGiven is more than a brand, it's a lifestyle choice.

IMPACT STANDOUTS

Pau Gosol and Gasol Foundation launched the third edition of Europe's Pl4nets healthy summit. Thanks to technology, they are bringing together the talent and knowledge of a large number of experts to inform, advise and provide tools that allow us to improve our eating habits, sleep, physical activity and emotional well-being.

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