First massive swell of the winter hits Hawaii
The biggest early-October swell to ever hit the iconic Hawaiian surf break of Jaws has electrified the surfing world. Not only did the waves arrive extraordinarily early in the season, they were deemed perfect for the new era of paddle-in challengers who have turned their backs on the jet-ski assists which helped bring Jaws to surfing fame over a decade ago.
The video of the rides at Jaws, shot on the north coast of Maui on October 9 and 10, show a level of performance unprecedented in the sport's lengthy history. Two of the best rides were credited to Shane Dorian (of Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii) who rode deeply inside the tube of each wave to the astonishment of onlookers. Local Maui surfer Albee Layer was also recognized for one of the greatest barrel rides ever seen at Jaws and Oahu surfer Makua Rothman rode what was likely the biggest wave of the day, a glassy monster with a face estimated at over 50 feet in height.
California's Greg Long (San Clemente) flew over for the swell and was glad he did, scoring yet another perfect tube ride for his efforts.
The National Weather Service has predicted the onset of an El Nino pattern in the North Pacific this winter. According to Surfline.com, this weather phenomenon tends to greatly increase the chances of extra-extra-large surf being generated by winter storms.
Video of all of the rides has been entered into the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards, an annual competition that awards over $120,000 to the world's best surfers based on the photographic evidence of their achievements. The 2013 Billabong XXL Awards will take place in California in May. Until then, fans may see all the video and still photos of this year's greatest big wave moments at the event website at www.BillabongXXL.com
Additional information may be obtained from the event's Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/BillabongXXL.
Additionally, EpicSesh captured all the action at Jaws Pe'ahi Maui, Hawaii on October 9th and 10th 2012. Also includes Shane Dorian's Billabong XXL entry! Riders include Shane Dorian, Albee Layer, Matt Meola, Kai Lenny, Robby Naish and more! Stay tuned for more action at http://www.epicsesh.com
