James “Tally Ho” Blears

James “Tally Ho” Blears was a professional wrestler, actor and longtime commentator for the Hawaii Triple Crown. Tally Ho was the father of well known Hawaii surfer Jimmy Blears. Jimmy was a member of the Weber team and dominated the contest ratings in the 60′ and 70′s in Hawaii. Jimmy also won the World Surfing Championship at Ocean Beach San Diego in 1972. An amazing feat given the talent pool of competition included Michael Ho, David Nuuhiwa, and Peter Townend. The balsa board pictured below belonged to Tally Ho and was shared by and is in the collection of John Mazza. It is a 12’0” Balsa shaped in 1958.

*Photos and board from the collection of John Mazza