The Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau Invitational has been called off. The predicted swell headed towards the bay failed to deliver 20-foot “Hawaiian” surf at first light. Quiksilver’s contest director, Glen Moncata explained that the bay had called the day forcing competition to be abandoned.
“Unfortunately, the forecasted swell changed direction, focusing its energy away from Hawaii, which resulted in a lack of surf at Waimea Bay. Wave heights must reach 40 feet for eight hours in order to run the event. Clearly, said Moncata, “The surf is not what we expected.”
The event waiting period runs until February 29th and Moncata remained upbeat about getting another bite of the cherry. “Who knows, next week we might set up this city again.”
Big wave commissioner and Eddie invitee, Peter Mel, expressed his disappointment through pursed lips on the WSL morning show.
“It’s disappointing, you look over your shoulder and here those buoy reading and it’s kind of shattering. So I’m a little bit demoralised at the moment and understandably so.”
Clyde Aikau delivered a public service announcement via Quiksilver’s Instagram account thanking everybody who had made the journey to Waimea Bay this morning.
The Aikau family and myself family and my brother Eddie Aikau would like to humbling thank everybody for their support of coming down to Waimea Bay We are sorry it didn’t run but that’s how nature but hopefully it will happen again and see you next time.”
The predicted swell is now heading towards California, which is good news for the Titans of Mavericks event on Friday. Jamie Mitchell, Mark Healey, Nathan Fletcher, Shane Dorian Greg Long, Kohl Christensen, Jamie Mitchell and Dave Wassell are all slated to compete ensuring the big-wave madness continues.
