“To understand the meaning of Aloha, you need to understand the Polynesian spirit of HA – The breath of life. Anything I have, anything I can give you, anything I can do for you. I do so unconditionally, expecting nothing in return.”
– Jack McCoy
Jack McCoy was the greatest surf film maker, showman and water cinematographer in the history of surf…
However, he transcended the surf industry and was most proud of being globally recognised for his work as an environmental activist and his unofficial title as the modern day ‘Ambassador of Aloha’.
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LEGACY LIVES ON
The Jack McCoy Aloha Foundation was born from love, legacy, and the timeless spirit of aloha. The Foundation carries forward the vision and values of a man whose artistry shaped the world of surfing and whose life touched countless hearts across the globe. Through his films, friendships, and fierce dedication to the planet, Jack left behind a legacy that needs to be preserved, celebrated, and shared with generations to come.
At its core, the foundation is a vessel of love and community – a continuation of Jack’s mission to inspire, protect, and connect people through surfing, the ocean, and the spirit of aloha.
Support the Aloha Foundation
Help us protect oceans, inspire future generations, and continue Jack’s legacy. Your donation directly supports conservation, education, and community-driven initiatives.
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JACK’S MENTORS
Jack was mentored by three of the most influential figures in which the Foundation is based upon.
He was destined for greatness.
Duke Kahanamoku
Ambassador of Aloha / The Waterman
Jack first met the Duke when he was 9 years old. He believed that when they shook hands “the Duke” transferred the spirit of aloha into my soul” which led to dedicating his life to the ocean and as an ‘ambassador of aloha’.
As a Hawaiian, the ultimate goal was to become an all round ‘ waterman’. Like Duke, Jack was proficient across all water sports, however his ability to swim in the most dangerous waves with a 30kg camera housing was unmatched. He always got the shot.
Bruce Brown
The Showman
Jack’s first surf film experience was watching Bruce Brown’s ‘Surfing Hollow Days’ at his high school auditorium. He was mesmerised as Bruce greeted everyone at the door, he then jumped up on stage to introduce the film before running to the back of the theatre to start the projector. Once the film began, he sat side of stage at a card table where he narrated the film live and sped up or slowed the music to sync with the vision.
Jack waited until the end of the show to help clean up and meet this amazing showman. The introduction led Jack on a path to become the greatest surf film maker and showman, selling out theatres until days before passing.
John Kelly
The Environmentalist
After school each day, Jack would go to his local beach in Hawaii where he became friends with John Kelly, founder of Save our Seas (SOS), which later became Surfrider Foundation.
Jack participated in his first environmental protest with John when he was 15, and spent the rest of his life donating his time to endless initiatives in a plight “to leave the planet in a better place for my
grandkids”.
Featured Films
Quotes
“Jack is one of the greatest watermen and showmen to grace our planet. It’s no fluke that he has consistently been able to get his camera in exactly the right place at the right time. He’s up there with the best cinematographers on the planet. However it’s his artistic and creative film making that will have an influence on surf culture forever.”
DAVID ELFICK
TV & Film Writer, Producer, Director
“Jack McCoy’s was truly revolutionary, innovative and prolific. His sensational cinematography and recording of surfing, the surrounding lifestyle and culture is extraordinary. He’s a National Treasure.”
JACK THOMPSON AM
Actor
“Jack McCoy is one of the greatest surf filmmakers of all time. His library of work is second to none – he’s filmed all the greatest surfers at the best locations on earth and documented some of the most iconic moments in the history of surfing.”
KELLY SLATER
11 x World Surfing Champion
“Jack is the modern day Ambassador of Aloha, the only person who exceeds Jack in sharing the spirit of aloha across the globe is the Duke.”
BOB HURLEY
Surf Industry Legend
“When all is said and done, Jack will be credited for playing an integral role for the development of surfing as an art form through his storytelling and cinematography. The world of surfing owes him for his love and dedication to capturing the history of surfing in such a unique and inquisitive way.”
GERRY LOPEZ
Surfing Legend
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