Sunn, Rell (1951–1998)

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Sunn, Rell (1951–1998)

American surfer. Name variations: Ruella Sunn-Parmenter. Born Ruella Kapolioka'ehukai (means "heart of the sea") Sunn, 1951, in Makaha, Oahu, HI; died Jan 2, 1998 of breast cancer in Makaha.

Known as a pioneer of women's professional surfing, was Hawaii's #1 female surfer for 5 years; co-founded Women's International Surfing Association (WISA, 1975); co-formed Women's Pro Surfing (WPS, 1979); ranked #1 in world on longboard (1982); was also Hawaii's 1st female lifeguard. Inducted into International Surfing Museum's Walk of Fame.

See also "Heart of the Sea" (documentary, PBS) and Andrea Gabbard, Girl in the Curl (Seal Press).