Boardriders Inc. issued a statement following the decision by French authorities on Wednesday to call off a two-day search and rescue operation for Pierre Agnes, the CEO of Boardriders Inc. Agnes’s boat boat was found empty, washed up on a beach in south-west France.
Boardriders statement read, “Today we are deeply saddened to confirm that the search and rescue efforts have not been successful in locating our CEO, Pierre Agnes, who has been lost at sea since Tuesday morning. The entire Boardriders family and thousands of people he touched spanning the globe are mourning this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, family and friends in this extremely difficult time.
“Pierre dedicated the past 30 years–his entire professional career–to Quiksilver, Boardriders and the surfing community. Our industry has lost a tremendous ambassador, visionary and icon, and we have lost a dear friend and passionate leader.
“Pierre loved the ocean, the surf industry, his hometown of Capbreton, France, our company and our employees, who he considered family. He helped build Quiksilver into an industry leader, and leaves as his legacy the world’s leading action-sports company. We are committed to building upon his vision and continuing the company’s success.”
“Thomas Chambolle, chief financial officer and Jose Cledera, head of HR for Boardriders, said, “We are devastated by the sudden and unexpected loss of Pierre. He was a vibrant spirit, a humble soul, a charismatic leader and our beloved friend. We join the entire surfing industry in mourning his loss. We are deeply grateful for the efforts of the search and rescue teams that worked tirelessly to find him, and for the outpouring of concern that has come from far and wide.”
Greg Healy, global president for Boardriders, added, “The only solace we can take from this is that Pierre left us while doing something he loved–enjoying the vast and endless beauty of the ocean, which had been one of his life’s passions. His leadership left an exceptionally strong team at Boardriders. I know that he saw the resurgence and growth of Quiksilver and Boardriders as his legacy, and our teams around the world are committed to honoring his memory by carrying the business forward with the same passion and energy he infused in us all.”
Boardrider said it will host several memorials around the world to celebrate Pierre’s life and his many accomplishments. Details will be announced at a later date. The company owns Quiksilver, Roxy and DC Shoes.
Photo courtesy Boardriders
