Betty Depolito, often referred to as “Banzai Betty,” is a trailblazer in the world of surfing and a fierce advocate for gender equality in the sport. Born September 11, 1958, she grew up honing her skills in California before making her mark on Oahu’s North Shore, a legendary proving ground for surfers.
Champion Surfer and Advocate for Women in Surfing
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Betty was part of the “California Golden Girls,” an elite group of female surfers who challenged the male-dominated industry. She was a top-rated international surfer and the California West Coast Champion. Competing at iconic breaks like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, Betty proved that women could excel in big-wave surfing, inspiring future generations.
Pioneering Media and Event Production
Beyond her achievements as a surfer, Betty Depolito made a significant impact through media and event production. She produced the first women’s surfing DVD in the 1980s and later worked as a reporter and technician for major networks, including ESPN. Her passion for promoting women’s sports led her to create “FlHi Girls Surfing & Sports TV,” a platform showcasing female athletes.
Betty’s role as a surf contest director further expanded her influence. She has directed the filming of prestigious events like the Eddie Aikau Invitational and the Pipeline Women’s Pro. In 2010, she founded the Women’s Waimea Bay Championship, marking the first all-women big-wave surf competition at Waimea Bay. Her efforts paved the way for the 2019 Red Bull Queen of the Bay, bringing female big-wave surfing to the global stage.
Recognition and Legacy
Betty’s relentless advocacy for gender equality has been recognized at the highest levels. In 2020, the Hawaii House of Representatives honored her for her contributions to surfing and her dedication to advancing opportunities for women in the sport. Today, she continues to be a mentor, an inspiration, and a champion for female surfers everywhere.
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