Though Derek has proven his skills on a global scale he'll never stop challenging himself.
Supporters: Matuse, Volcom, Sector 9, Etnies, Nixon and Stu Kenson Surfboards
Derek is dedicated to rushing big waves. The La Jolla native pays his dues. He gives respect. He understands that his spot in the pecking order – let alone the spotlight – is earned through years of being there and doing it. Though Derek has proven his skills on a global scale he'll never stop challenging himself.
As a grom, Derek cut his teeth charging local reef breaks. He then honed his skills working as a Tavarua boatman. Today, Derek’s paddle and tow-in act are well documented – from Todos Santos and Puerto Escondido to Mavericks.
Recently, Derek displayed the pride and persistence that define his stubborn Irish nature – as well as his commitment to big surf: In May of 2008, Derek got clipped by the lip at big Cloudbreak. The wipeout left his left ankle with torn ligaments and a spiral fracture. However, after surgery and countless hours of rehab (with his brother/trainer Shane Hurdman), Derek was surfing Puerto by the Fall. Then, on November 30th 2008, he nabbed one of the biggest waves seen this winter at Mavericks. That ride won Derek the 2008 XXL award for Biggest Paddle-in.
Derek, twin brother of top notch photographer, Taylor
Dunfee, is also a preternaturally talented writer who
wields a concise yet compelling style that would make
Hemingway nod.
