The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, a prestigious surfing competition, is set to take place this Sunday at Waimea Bay, with expectations of waves exceeding 30 feet. This event, which honors legendary surfer Eddie Aikau, is anticipated to draw a massive crowd, prompting city officials to implement special preparations for the day.
Key Takeaways
- Event Date: Sunday, December 24, 2024
- Location: Waimea Bay, North Shore, Hawaii
- Expected Wave Height: Over 30 feet
- Participants: 35 men’s invitees and 10 women’s invitees
- Live Coverage: Available on KHII and RipCurl’s YouTube Channel from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Event Overview
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is a highly anticipated event in the surfing community, known for its challenging conditions and elite competitors. This year marks the 11th occurrence of the event since its inception in 1984. The competition will officially proceed if surf heights consistently reach 20 feet, with current forecasts suggesting waves may exceed 30 feet.
Preparation for a Large Crowd
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, alongside contest organizer Clyde Aikau, held a press conference to discuss preparations for the expected influx of spectators. The city is urging residents to consider watching the event from home to alleviate crowding at the bay.
- Parking Restrictions: The parking lot at Waimea Bay will be closed to the public starting Saturday at 10 a.m. to accommodate event staff and contestants.
- Parking Options: Paid parking is available in Waimea Valley, priced at $50 for front lots and $30 for rear lots, until full.
- Traffic Management: Barriers will be installed along Kamehameha Highway to manage traffic flow and ensure safety.
Competitors and Champions
Among the 35 men’s invitees, six are past champions, including Luke Shepardson, who won the last edition in January 2023, and John John Florence, the 2016 champion. The event also features 10 women’s invitees, with six hailing from Hawaii, showcasing local talent and competitive spirit.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
City officials are emphasizing the importance of safety and environmental responsibility during the event. Spectators are encouraged to:
- Take Rubbish Home: Beach-goers should be prepared to take their trash with them to keep the area clean.
- Mind Personal Items: With high surf expected, attendees should be cautious of personal belongings that could be swept away.
As the excitement builds for The Eddie, both competitors and fans are gearing up for a thrilling day of big wave surfing at Waimea Bay. With the combination of elite talent and challenging conditions, this year’s event promises to be a memorable one in the history of surfing.
Sources
- ‘The Eddie’ underway Sunday at Waimea Bay, Spectrum News.
- ‘The Eddie’ expected to go Sunday at Waimea Bay, Spectrum News 1.
