A SOULJAHS Send-Off for Scott Tucker.

On Saturday 25th June, 2011, friends, family, and fellow watermen gathered at Mt.Irvine to pay Tribute to a ‘Risen’ SOULJAH, Scott Tucker. The traditional Surfer Paddle-out dates back to the 1920′s and was ironically made world-famous by Scott’s favorite surfer, 3x World Champion Andy Irons who had passed 8 months ago.  This celebration of sorts proved to be the perfect way to honor this young waterman’s legacy.  It was a day at Mt.Irvine completely dedicated to Scott’s memory, organized by the surfers, done in the exact way that scott himself celebrated life at every chance he got.

A heavenly scene as Scott was clearly present at his send-off.

The Paddle Out was such a coming together of characters, it spoke volumes for the impact Scott had on everyone he came into contact with.  To begin with, there has never been that many surfboards on Mt.Irvine Beach in June (out of the surf season), nor have there ever been 50 surfers in the line-up in Mt.Irvine in June.  There has never been a memorial paddle out with 50 people ever in Trinidad & Tobago, not even close.  So, to see 50 surfers, kayaks, dingies, and full size sport fishers congregate in the lineup at Mt.Irvine, there is no denying that you are witnessing history being written as respects are paid to a legendary waterman.

Barry and Blair, Together with Jason Apparicio, were largely responsible for organising this memorial.

Scott, who passed away from diving related injuries in Tobago a couple weeks prior, loved the island and spent as much time as he could in the ocean surrounding it.  Surfing, wake-boarding, diving, spearfishing, and fishing.  He was a care-free character that loved his family and friends very much.  He was all about having a good time and made sure to radiate that vibe to everyone around him. Scott was fearless in big surf, and was known for pioneering performance wake-boarding in Trinidad.

Jason Apparicio and Friends say goodbye.

On the day that Scott was set to marry his beloved fiance, Amanda Hadeed, Scott did not disappoint his would-be wedding guests as, considering the tragic circumstances, he still managed to unite everyone he loved and cared for in a celebration of his life that will live on in their memories for ever.  This celebration was a necessary release for everyone shell shocked by the news of Scotts untimely passing. You can rest assured that as good as it felt for everyone that took part in the occasion, the feeling must have been 10 fold for Scott looking down on it.

Friends and Family gather Pre-Paddleout.

Scott really loved life.  His facebook status’ and photo album names always reflected this.  Here is an example…
“Life is the most valuable thing that we have…You dont know unless you have to fight for it , and it’s sad how people take it for granted….some people fight for it every day of there lives in pain just to get that one moment of feeling good for that one second.Love your life every day and the people who live in your life…..” Scott Tucker

Amanda Paddled Out on one of scott's boards, as did most of his famiily.

Once the circle of paddlers was formed in the lineup at Mt.Irvine, a group of surfers and non-surfers said their goodbyes, flowers were thrown, water was splashed, tears were shed, and memories were made. An experience that words can’t describe. As time passed with the circle in formation at the inside lineup, it was as if scott pulled everyone out towards the point, in order to show them where the real lineup was… outside the point!

The circle drifted from the inside lineup, to Scotts favorite spot...outside the point!

Amanda described the day as the “Most beautiful thing I have ever experienced, such love and unity…Scotty Couldn’t have asked for anything better.”  Many of Scott’s friends and family members that have never surfed, got to experience something they may never have otherwise tried. They got to sit on the point in Mt.Irvine, with Scott, enjoying what he loved to do.

Scotts presence was felt all day and into the night.

The coverage of Scotts memorial paddle out has been spectacular, as everyone who participated were eager to record final memories with their friend and brother, Scott. The videos and pictures have been amazing so far, and surely will be combined to make a memorable final tribute in his name.  Special Thanks to Emily Mouttet and Stephen Broadridge for the photos included here.

An incredible sight to behold.