THE surfing community showed its respect to the contribution a surfing pioneer from Newquay gave to the sport.

More than 80 people took part in a paddle out at Fistral Beach in memory of John Owen who helped shape competition surfing in the UK and around Europe. 

John helped inspire generations of surfers through the development of the UK Pro Surf Tour, most notably the Boardmasters competition held in Newquay, as well as Association of Surfing Professionals events in France and Italy, which was the forerunner to the World Surf League. 

John was also the co-founder of the Newquay Boardriders Club. 

Sons Jof and Jamie Owen and his daughter Joanne were among those who took part in the paddle out a few hundred yards from the shore on Sunday, September 1.

The paddlers formed a human circle by holding hands, which aims to represent the way the ocean brings people together.

A tribute was also given for John and a minute silence was held at the floating memorial to reflect on his life before the paddlers splashed the water and released flowers.

Jof said: “Big thanks to everyone who attended.

“It meant a lot to us to see everyone there to celebrate our dad’s life and say our goodbyes in a way that reflects his love for surfing.”

Former world tour surfer Russell Winter added: “John was among those who helped create the pro tour, which not only provided us with the platform but it was also a stepping stone for the heroes we looked up to.

“John always had my back. He was a lovely guy. A true legend of the sport.”

Business partner Dave Reed added: “John was a one of a kind.

“He helped develop surfing at a time when the sport was growing at its fastest.

“John helped a lot of young surfers who are now in attendance at the paddle out and are now a lot older.”

Russell Sinkevicius said: “John helped put Newquay on the surfing map. He helped make the town become the place to visit to go surfing. John was an ambassador for British surfing.”