Hobart Alter

Date of Birth: October 31, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: March 29, 2014

Biography

Hobart “Hobie” Alter was an American businessman, innovator, and pioneer in the world of surfing and sailing. Born on October 31, 1933, in Ontario, California, Hobie is best known for revolutionizing the surfboard and sailboat industries. He grew up in Laguna Beach, where his passion for the ocean began at a young age. In the 1950s, Hobie started shaping surfboards in his family’s garage, eventually founding Hobie Surfboards. He introduced the use of polyurethane foam, which made surfboards lighter and more accessible to the masses. Alter didn’t stop at surfboards; he went on to invent the Hobie Cat, a small, user-friendly catamaran that brought the joy of sailing to countless enthusiasts. His innovative spirit earned him a place in the Surfing Walk of Fame and the National Sailing Hall of Fame. Hobie Alter passed away on March 29, 2014, in Palm Desert, California, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to water sports.

5 Interesting Facts about Hobart Alter

1. Hobie Alter founded Hobie Surfboards in 1950, which became a leading brand in the surfing industry.

2. He introduced the first polyurethane foam surfboard in 1958, which revolutionized the sport.

3. The Hobie Cat sailboat, introduced in 1967, is one of the best-selling catamarans in the world.

4. Hobie was inducted into the Surfing Walk of Fame in 1993 and the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2011.

5. He also dabbled in motorized surfboards with the Hobie Power Skiff, showcasing his versatile innovation skills.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hobart Alter

1. “A lot of people probably think I got rich making surfboards. I didn’t. But I got to spend my life doing what I love.”

2. “I wanted to make it possible for anyone to enjoy the thrill of surfing.”

3. “Surfing is about being in the moment and feeling the energy of the ocean.”

4. “The Hobie Cat was designed for fun, plain and simple.”

5. “Innovation is about looking at the world differently and finding ways to improve it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Hobie Alter was estimated to be around $50 million.

Children

Hobie Alter had three children: Paula Alter, Hobart “Hobie” Alter Jr., and Jeff Alter. They have continued to carry on his legacy in various capacities within the family business and water sports community.