When you think of San Diego surfing legends—names like Skip Frye, Larry Gordon, and Debbie Beacham often come to mind. Yeah, and there is a San Diego surfing legend that helped make these legends possible–the one and only Dempsey Holder. An accomplished swimmer, alpha lifeguard, and a pioneering big wave surfer who changed the game forever.
In this blog post, we will dive into Dempsey Holder’s influence on the surfing world, his legacy, and how he inspired generations of surfers with his innovative methodologies. We will also look at some of the key events in his life that shaped his career and his impact on Imperial Beach, the San Diego surfing community and well beyond.
Dempsey Holder’s Influence on Surfing
Dempsey Holder’s impact on the world of surfing cannot be overstated. His revolutionary approach to lifeguard services in surf culture has inspired surfers globally. By implementing innovative techniques and skills, Dempsey Holder ensured the safety of countless surfers and set a new standard for lifeguarding. His influence still resonates today, as his contributions paved the way for modern surf lifesaving techniques. Surfers owe a great debt to Dempsey Holder, whose legacy continues to shape the surfing community.
1930’s San Diego Surfing
San Diego in the 1930s saw a thriving surf scene. In the late 1920’s the world wide celebrity Duke Kahanamoku kept a Southern California residency. Aspiring surfers flocked to the beaches to often teach themselves how to ride, and accidents were common. Beaches like Imperial Beach provided perfect surf conditions, drawing in a growing number of surf enthusiasts with all levels of experience.
Like the Duke, experienced surfers were the most qualified to save the drowning. The Duke famously rescued eight men whose boat capsized in heavy surf.
As an apex San Diego surfer, Dempsey Holder also distinguished himself as the top qualified lifeguard.
The surf culture during this time laid a solid foundation for future generations of surfers. San Diego surfers of the 1930s, including legendary lifeguard Dempsey Holder, played a significant role in shaping the surf culture we know today. Their passion for the waves and skills on the board left a lasting impact on the surfing community. The pier and nearby Tijuana became popular spots for surfers to gather and ride the waves.
Big TJ Sloughs 1937
As Mavericks is California’s maven big wave challenge today–Imperial Beach’s TJ Slough was an epicenter of cutting edge big wave surfing.
In 1937, surfers were mesmerized by the awe-inspiring waves at Big TJ Sloughs, located near the Mexican border. It was known as the “Spooky, big wave break”. These courageous wave riders were considered pioneers, fearlessly riding the massive swells and showcasing their exceptional skills.
Known for breaking far from shore, in 1937 Dempsey Holder became the first known rider of this outside break.
Dempsey recalls:
“In the summer of ’37, I went down to the Sloughs and camped with my family. Well, I saw big waves breaking out at outside shore break and went body surfing. I never did get out to the outside of it. A big set came and I was still inside of it. Well, I sort of made note of that – boy, you know, surf breaking out that far.”
Led by legendary surfer Dempsey Holder, they pushed the limits of what was thought possible in surfing. The outside break was first ridden on surfboards in 1939 by Dempsey Holder and Towney Cromwell.
Big TJ Sloughs quickly gained a reputation as a legendary surf spot, known for its challenging waves. The surfers who conquered the waves of Big TJ Sloughs in the late 1930’s left an indelible mark on the history of the surf community.
Lloyd Baker recalls “The Sloughs was Dempsey’s place. Every big day with the right swell direction and good wind condition, Dempsey was there. The rest of us were just visitors, a day here and a day there.
Flippy Hoffman agreed. “Dempsey was the guru down there.”
Windansea surfer Jim “Burrhead” Drever, who was one of the early guys to surf the Sloughs, in the 1940s said of Dempsey, “He was really glad to have friends show up to surf with.”
Imperial Beach Lifeguard Service
The Imperial Beach Lifeguard Service was established with the sole purpose of ensuring the safety of beachgoers. Thanks to the influence of Dempsey Holder, this lifeguard service became renowned for their expertise and unwavering dedication. Holder’s innovative techniques revolutionized the way lifeguards operated, setting a high standard that would be emulated worldwide. With Imperial Beach as their domain, these lifeguards patrolled the shores with the utmost vigilance, keeping a watchful eye on the pier and the waters stretching towards Tijuana. Their commitment to safety made them a force to be reckoned with in the lifesaving community.
Dempsey Holder Safety Center
The legacy of Dempsey Holder lives on through the creation of the Dempsey Holder Safety Center. Serving as a training ground for lifeguards, the safety center perpetuates Holder’s teachings and ensures that essential skills and techniques are learned. Promoting surf safety, the Dempsey Holder Safety Center honors the lifeguarding legend and continues to be a hub for lifeguard training, education, and innovation. This center stands as a tribute to Dempsey Holder’s lifeguarding legacy, offering lifeguards the opportunity to build upon his expertise and contribute to a safer surfing community.
Dempsey Holder Ocean Festival & Surf Contest
The Dempsey Holder Ocean Festival & Surf Contest is an annual celebration that pays tribute to surf culture, lifeguarding, and beach safety. This exciting event brings together surf enthusiasts from around the world to honor Dempsey Holder’s invaluable contributions. The festival features thrilling surf contests that showcase the skills and talents of surfers, while also offering a range of beach games and educational activities. Held at a picturesque location near the pier, the Dempsey Holder Ocean Festival is a highly anticipated highlight on the surf community’s calendar. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant surf culture and learn more about the importance of beach safety.
Dempsey Holder Statue
The legacy of Dempsey Holder, a legendary lifeguard who transformed the world of surfing with his innovative rescue techniques, is immortalized in the form of a statue. Recently erected, the statue stands tall as a tribute to Holder’s courage and unwavering commitment to public safety. Located near the pier, it serves as a constant reminder of Holder’s contributions to the surfing community and the history of lifeguarding. With its presence, the statue not only honors Holder’s impact but also symbolizes the lasting influence he had on making surfing safer for everyone involved.
Who Was Inspired by Dempsey Holder’s Methodology?
Surf lifeguards worldwide have been influenced by Dempsey Holder’s lifeguarding methodology. His techniques have transcended our ocean shores, with many lifeguard services adopting his methods to ensure surfer safety globally. Both past and present lifeguards owe a debt of gratitude to Holder, as his methodology continues to shape surf lifeguard services around the world.
What is a Dempsey Holder Quote?
Jack “Woody” Eckstrom remember Dempsey Holder saying: “If you make every wave, you’re not calling it close enough.
Dempsey Holder said, “Back in West Texas where I was raised there were lots of cowboys, but that didn’t mean too much. The thing that was a real compliment was to be a stockman. That’s like a waterman—somebody that can handle themselves in the water. Emergency come along—you can take care of yourself.”
Conclusion
Dempsey Holder’s legacy in the world of surfing is undeniable. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact, inspiring generations of surfers and lifeguards. Holder’s innovative approach to lifeguarding and his dedication to promoting safety in the water revolutionized the way people approached surfing. His influence can still be seen today in the techniques and practices used by surfers around the world. The Dempsey Holder Safety Center stands as a testament to his commitment to the sport and to protecting those who enjoy it. Additionally, the annual Dempsey Holder Ocean Festival & Surf Contest continues to celebrate Holder’s contributions and keep his memory alive. Many surfers and lifeguards have been inspired by Holder’s methodology, furthering his mission of safety and excellence in the sport of surfing.