Opening Ceremony Kicks Off the Rip Curl The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational

A mid-sized swell lapped the shoreline at Waimea Bay on Friday morning, while heavy rain fell steadily from the grey clouds above.  

In Hawaiian culture, rain is seen as a blessing from the "kupuna," or ancestors. This felt especially fitting that day, as a large crowd began to gather to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Hawaiian hero, Eddie Aikau. 

The beach buzzed with excitement and reverence, as the opening ceremony of the Rip Curl The Eddie Big Wave Invitational began to unfold against the stunning backdrop of Waimea Valley.  

Invitees, alternates, and members of the surf community had come to welcome in another season of the specialty big wave event, “The Eddie”, in honour of Eddie Aikau, the legendary waterman who dedicated his life to saving others.  

Stories were shared, and memories of Eddie’s courage and selflessness were honored by those who knew him best, including his younger brother and 1987 former event winner, Clyde Aikau.  

“Basically, Eddie was a guy who would help you out if you needed it. Recognizing Eddie as who he was and all the great things that he did... it’s always humbling to have people respect that.”  

In celebration of the union, the perpetual Rip Curl The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational trophy was unveiled—crafted from steel, with the names of past event winners intricately engraved, immortalizing their achievements and inviting the next champion to join their ranks. 

“My base goal for the event is always to show up and ride in honour of Uncle Eddie Aikau and make sure I have a big smile on my face, even though the waves are huge, I always try and make sure no matter how big it is just to attack it with happy vibes,” said event invitee and North Shore local, Mason Ho. “To have my name on that trophy would be a dream come true.” 

As the legendary Polynesian voyaging canoe, the Hōkūleʻa, sailed into Waimea Bay—the same vessel that capsized in 1978, prompting Eddie to selflessly paddle in search of help—the surfers paddled out to meet her. In that moment, Eddie’s enduring legacy was deeply felt by all in attendance.  

The Hōkūleʻa and the opening ceremony served as a reminder of the unrivalled history ‘The Eddie’ carries for the Hawaiian people and surf community alike. It is more than a contest; it is a living tribute to Eddie Aikau, the fearless lifeguard and surfer, whose courage continues to resonate with all who encounter his story.  

As the opening ceremony came to a close, a fire had well and truly been lit for the surfers invited to compete in this year’s prestigious event. Soon, they will be called upon to channel the bravery of Eddie, to push themselves over the ledge of arguably some of the scariest waves in the world. But for now, they, along with the rest of the surfing world, must wait in eager anticipation for Waimea to come to life.  

About the contest: 
The event is committed to running only in the heaviest conditions, with a competition window from December 14 to March 13. For the event to be called on, waves must consistently reach at least 20+ feet (Hawaiian scale), with ideal conditions pushing 30-40 feet. The Eddie has only run 10 times in the last 40 years, making each contest a rare and highly anticipated event. 

The event was created in honour of Eddie Aikau, North Shore lifeguard and big wave pioneer, who tragically lost his life at sea while attempting to save others.  

This year’s list of surfers features 45 invitees and 25 alternates, including an additional four women, ensuring that every heat will now contain two female competitors.

All photos by Brian Bielmann and Brent Bielmann.