Buffalo's Big Board Classic Concludes Another Successful Year at Makaha

Recap the 49th Annual Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic held at Makaha, Hawaii, celebrating the legacy of Richard 'Buffalo' Keaulana and big board surfing.

Buffalo's Big Board Classic Concludes Another Successful Year at Makaha

The 49th Annual Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic recently wrapped up its second weekend of competition at the legendary Makaha Beach in Hawaii. This cherished event, held annually over Presidents Day weekend, celebrates the spirit and legacy of waterman Richard ‘Buffalo’ Kalolo’okalani Keaulana.

Event Highlights

  • The classic honors Richard ‘Buffalo’ Keaulana, a renowned Hawaiian waterman.

  • It features approximately 14 different categories and divisions.

  • The competition emphasizes the use of big boards, 10 feet and over.

  • The event aims to foster community and stoke within the surfing world.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Established in 1977 by Richard ‘Buffalo’ Keaulana himself, the Big Board Classic began as a men's only 'open surfing' division where finalists shared equal ranking, a unique approach at the time. Buffalo's vision was to create an event that allowed older surfers to enjoy competition, encouraged those who didn't typically enter contests, minimized reliance on judging calls, and focused on the fun of riding large surfboards.

Makaha: A Surfing Classroom

For 48 years, the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic has served as a "collective expression of giving back to surfing," returning a sense of place and stoke to the community. The event continues to flourish under Buffalo's guiding principles. As he once stated, "Makaha is a classroom of sorts…for all ages…" This sentiment underscores the event's role in fostering a shared passion for surfing across generations. The success of the 49th iteration is a testament to the dedication of Buffalo and the countless volunteers who contribute each year.

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