My studio was closed today.... we all played hooky because there was just no way we could stay off the beach today, along with literally thousands of others. People flocked to the North Shore starting in the middle of the night to get a good spot to watch the show... we are lucky enbough to live and work only a block from the 'arena'!
We have had the most amazing winter conditions on the North Shore this year and it seems like it is only just beginning....
I have not been able to take my eyes off the ocean it has been so beautiful, and today I gave everyone the day off so that they could enjoy it too. It was history in the making as the Quiksilver in memory of Eddie Aikau contest only runs when the conditions are perfect... today was the events 25th anniversary and only the 8th time the contest has ever run... and the conditions couldn't have been any more perfect! It was sunny and clear with slight offshore winds and glassy conditions... the waves were in the 20-25 foot range which means the front face of the wave was 40-50 feet high. Imagine jumping off a 4 story building, then having the building fall down behind you and then chase you! That's what these guys were up against.... and I know they loved every minute of it!
This is Clyde Aikau... Eddies brother. He is 61 years old and still charging this monster surf.
This following series was the first official wave of the day... I think this guy had a few jitters to work out!
How about this 'Big Air' drop'?
This is the one and only Kelly Slater.... an icon and a legend in the surf world.
I think these wipe out images help give some perspective as to just how small we are in the face of Mother Nature....
And this is one of our local North Shore boys Garrett McNamara.
It was a day I will remember... not just because I could walk faster down Kam Hwy than any of the cars could drive, but because I got to see such an amazing show of athleticism, hang out with such cool friends and enjoy an awe inspiring show that Mother Nature only puts on in a very few places around the world!
Thanks to everyone and congrats to all 24 of the invitees to the contest... all of you are winners in my book!
aloha,
~j
