The original artist of the statue was R. Tait McKenzie, one of the great pioneers in physical education and one of the greatest sculptors of athletes. In 1912 he persuaded Duke Kahanamoku to sit for him after seeing him swimming at the University of Pennsylvania's Weightman Hall, and indoor pool next to his office. Many of McKenzie's works are featured on the University of Pennsylvania campus, and others in Scotland and Stockholm. McKenzie died while making the sculpture of the Duke. His protege, Joseph Brown, finished the sculpture. Joseph Brown was a schuptor-in-residence at Princeton University and a long time Tait Mckenzie protege. His work has been commissioned by prominent Universities, Including Yale, Princeton, Harvard, and US Naval Academy. The statue, was purchased and permanently moved to Honolulu Hawaii, and displayed at the Opening of the International Surf Museum, the First Day of Issue of the Duke Kahanamoku Stamp Unveiling (2002) and currently on display at the Outrigger Canoe Club, which is the main supporter of the Duke Kahanamoku Foundation. The sculpture is in perfect condition, however has some patina on it which some people feel indicates its authenticity. Statue is 36 inches tall.

Statue is 36 inches tall, with wooden base