O’Neill Cold Water Classic 2010 Canada - The Trophy

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What makes the O’Neill Cold Water Classic Series even more special than it already is, are the different trophies of every tour stop. Every trophy is connected to its event location and has a deeper and powerful meaning than just being a trophy. This is the reason why all five trophies of the series are considered the most prestigious surfing trophies.
Tofino artist Carl Martin creates the trophy for the Cold Water Classic Canada – the paddle.
He has been carving since the 1960’s, and along with his brothers Joe Martin and the late Billy Martin, is responsible for keeping the art of canoe making alive on the West Coast. The paddle is full of memories and significance.
The paddle was an important tool in the Nuu-Chah-Nulth culture. It was a necessity of life as it provided travel, food and protection. It is carved in yew wood, a strong and resilient wood that gives the paddle a powerful flex. The yew tree is revered in the Nuu-Chah-Nulth culture. You weren’t allowed to just go and cut one down. They grow slow and twisted so to find one that is big enough and straight enough to get a paddle out of is rare.