"I think Hawai'i is, and always will be, the epicenter of surfing," said Sullivan, 31. "To do well here speaks pretty loudly for a surfer's ability."

The 21st annual Xcel Pro will be staged on the three best days between today and Nov. 10.

"The Xcel holds a pretty high standard," Sullivan said. "It's normally held in bigger waves, so that alone makes it a prestigious event."

Sullivan's stake is raised because he was raised in the surf at Sunset Beach.

"I feel fortunate to surf in any event here on the North Shore," he said. "But Sunset is especially close to my heart. Anytime I can surf out there with only three other guys, I'm going to take advantage of it."

His fearless style has resulted in three Xcel Pro championships (1998, 2000 and 2003) — one short of the record held by Michael Ho.

Since last year's victory, Sullivan has added one significant title: Daddy. He and his wife, Haunani, now have an 11-week-old daughter named Kirra.

"It's a big transition," Sullivan said. "But she's brought so much joy to our lives already."

Because of conflicting contests in Brazil, many top-ranked surfers are not expected to compete in the Xcel Pro, including Andy Irons and Sunny Garcia.

The Vans Triple Crown of Surfing will begin after the completion of the Xcel Pro.

For daily status of the contests, call 596-7873.