The Third Jewel of the Triple Crown of Surfing

Photo courtesy of Chad Podoski (Flickr)

The Banzai Pipeline is arguably the most famous wave in the world, the wave that all other waves are measured against.  In recent years, “Pipe” (as the surfers call it here) has provided the perfect arena for the final stage of the Vans Triple Crown, and the first day of competition is being held today in 10+ foot surf.  With its shallow coral reef and a lack of continental shelf to break up the open-ocean swells, Pipeline is one of the most dangerous waves in the world.  Add a packed lineup of wave riders trying to get a piece of the action, and Pipe becomes not just a dangerous ride, but an extremely entertaining show for spectators.

Every year, thousands of surfers and bodyboarders travel to Oahu from all ends of the earth to test their skills at this famous spot.  Pipeline earned its reputation early on because it is considered a perfect wave. Depending on the day, surfers go in either direction on the wave. The right is called “Backdoor” and the left is called “Pipeline.”

With the swell that brought the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational still pumping, the first day of the Billabong Pipeline Masters competition starts up today and could wrap up in the next few days.  There are three full days of competition, and the contest has to finish by December 20.  If you aren’t on the islands to see the action with your own eyes, you can watch it live HERE.

Today will be a full and exciting day of surfing and there are just a few more days to come!  A Triple Crown winner will be crowned (with Sunny Garcia in the lead), and the world champion will be crowned as well, with the competition down to Joel Parkinson and Mick Fanning.  Make sure you get to the beach early, as the parking situation can get hairy and there’s sure to be a crowd!