Shamu

A recent article in a local publication reminded me of Shamu the killer whale at San Diego Sea World.

In 1978 Kent, Sean and I went on an RV trip to California for the entire month of February. British Columbia can be quite rainy and cold in February and we enjoyed the sun and blue skies of California, staying in different trailer parks along our route and touring many attractions in various cities.

Shamu the killer whale at Sea World was at the top of our ‘must see’ list. He was one of the first whales netted around Pender Harbour. Local fishermen netted pods of whales in their seine nets, penned them in the harbour and sold them to various aquariums around the world.

It was a huge story and very controversial. Many locals were extremely jealous of the large amounts of money being paid to the fishermen and others were appalled at the capture of these magnificent mammals. Everyone had an opinion, the community was divided and the animosity among neighbours was rampant.

I was enthralled to see the whales when they were penned in Pender Harbour, too young to be involved in the disputes, but proud to be part of such an experience.

We were all excited to see Shamu in his new home at Sea World, knowing he’d been transported all the way to San Diego from my hometown. He put on a fabulous show, breaching, calling, clicking, spy hopping, pec slapping and lob tailing – splashing us as part of the show which made everyone laugh with glee! I was amazed at the affinity between Shamu and the trainers. Killer whales are so incredibly smart and learn quickly, while teaching us an enormous amount.

Sean still has his ‘Shamu’ stuffed killer whale toy we bought after the show. It’s rather shabby and squishy now, but full of memories of a wonderful family vacation in San Diego.

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