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Big Wave Invitational announces official closing of the 2006-2007
by Tobias Coffman
01/03/2007:// Quiksilver Inc. today announced the official closing of the 2006-2007 "Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational In Memory of Eddie Aikau" (www.quiksilver.com/bigwave). In the 22-year history of the event, it has only been held a total of seven times, due to stringent wave height requirements that keep the emphasis of the event true to the spirit of big-wave rider Aikau.
The holding period for the 22nd Anniversary event on Oahu's famous North Shore began December 1, 2006 and ends today, the final possible day for competition. The last time it was held was in December of 2004, when Hawaii's Bruce Irons was the victor. The event will return in December of 2007.
Honoring revered big wave surfer and lifeguard Eddie Aikau, the Quiksilver Big Wave In Memory of Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational can only be held when the surf measures at least 20 feet (Hawaiian scale) for a full day of competition. The event came close to meeting the height requirements on several occasions this winter, however adverse wind and storm conditions ruled each opportunity out.
The unpredictable nature of the Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational In Memory of Eddie Aikau, as well as the respect paid to Aikau's memory, makes it one of the most exciting and anticipated events in professional surfing. With a highly celebrated and hugely attended opening ceremony each year, Aikau is honored and the event is recognized globally, regardless of whether the ocean delivers huge waves. Over the years, the elusive nature of giant swells has only added to the anticipation of this event.
Surfing legend Eddie Aikau was the North Shore's first full-time lifeguard, and earned the permanent guard chair at Waimea with a sterling reputation for his life-saving work. He was also a dedicated soul for Hawaii's indigenous people and the perpetuation of their culture. In 1978, during an historic voyage from Hawaii to Tahiti, the voyaging canoe he was on capsized, leaving him and nine other crew members stranded 12 miles east of Lanai. Aikau swam off in a heroic attempt to find assistance but, tragically, was never heard from again, despite the most intensive air-sea search in Hawaiian maritime history.
The 2008 Beachley Classic got underway this morning, completing Rounds 1 and 2 as well as the opening two heats of Round 3 at nearby Freshwater Beach in clean two-to-three foot (1 metre) waves
Layne Beachley (AUS), 36, has officially announced her retirement from full-time competition, effective at the end of the year
Former Exeter University student Josh Lewin first heat at the Ocean and Earth Pro in the Canary Islands has been delayed because the 2ft surf was deemed uncontestable
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