Hugues Oyarzabal, a renowned European surfer known for his daring exploits inside waves and innovative use of digital cameras, tragically passed away on February 21 at the age of 39. His parents revealed that he had taken his own life after struggling with bipolar disorder since childhood. Despite his challenges, Oyarzabal surfed some of the most treacherous waves in Europe, Africa, and Indonesia where he considered a second home. He also created acclaimed surfing documentaries, such as “Peace and Left,” showcasing his unique skills and experiences in the water.
Oyarzabal began filming his surfing adventures as a teenager in 2001, using a Mini-DV camcorder attached to his board to capture himself inside barrels or tubes of waves. He was a pioneer in capturing footage of himself inside a wave and looking backward through it. As GoPro cameras became available, he continued to push the boundaries of surf photography and videography. In recognition of his innovative work, he was honored at the first GoPro Awards ceremony in Hawaii in 2012. His peers praised his creativity and loyalty as a friend, remembering him as an eccentric and unpredictable individual.
Born in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France, Oyarzabal developed a love for surfing at a young age, eventually leading him to pursue his passion around the world. He also excelled in sports like tennis and paleta, but surfing became his primary focus. Leaving school at 16, he relocated to Australia to train and improve his skills with a private coach. Throughout his life, Oyarzabal embraced the title of “freesurfer,” prioritizing personal expression over competitive success, and pushing himself to try new things in the water.
In 2006, Oyarzabal married Jana Kondo, and they traveled to surfing destinations together before having a daughter, Kailani, in 2011. Oyarzabal later taught Kailani to surf, passing on his love for the ocean to the next generation. Despite the end of his marriage in 2013, Kailani and his parents remained his closest family members. Following his passing, surfers around the world paid their respects by paddling out and scattering flowers in the water, honoring his legacy and impact on the surfing community.
Oyarzabal’s death serves as a reminder of the challenges individuals with mental health conditions face, and the importance of seeking help and support. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline are available to provide assistance. Oyarzabal’s life and contributions to the world of surfing will be remembered by those who knew him, as he leaves behind a lasting legacy in the sport he loved.
