Hawaiian Legend Eddie Aikau
Tomorrow is the big day that kicks off the Quicksilver Big Wave Invitational in honor of Eddie Aikau on the Oahu, North Shore. It is held each year in Waimea Bay, only if the waves are epic. When the open ocean wave swells are consistent and reaching 20 feet and waves of 30 feet plus in the bay, then the event will be held that year. Most years the waves are not big enough to host the event. However, each year, there is an opening ceremony and Hawaiian blessing that kicks off the Big Wave Invitational, then the surfers wait. The waiting ends the last day of February or when the waves are epic.
Here is the event’s website and photo of Eddie:
Photo from http://quiksilverlive.com/eddieaikau/2014/.
I recently watched a great documentary on Eddie Aikau. An amazing big wave surfer, lifeguard, hero, legend and an inspiration to many here on Oahu. I recommend watching the video.
You can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jO3u4xQ9BC0. A common saying here in Hawaii is “Eddie would go!”
By Brandon Murphy
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