He proved that Wednesday by winning the Ke Kaha Nalu Hanana O Ehukai bodysurfing contest at the Banzai Pipeline.

"I thank my lucky stars every day that I am still able to play in the surf and bodysurf at Pipeline like this," said Cunningham, 51.

The bodysurfers were treated to a rare April swell, as the famous waves at Pipeline were forming 4- to 8-foot barrels.

The contest was sponsored by Quiksilver and organized by the North Shore Lifeguard Association. Around half of the 50 or so competitors were active or former North Shore lifeguards.

Cunningham received a total score of 102 (out of 120) in his two heats. North Shore lifeguard Abe Lerner placed second, one point behind Cunningham. Todd Sells was third, Steven Hong fourth, and Gavin Kennelly fifth.

The Kauai tandem of Gavin Kennelly and David Hubbard won the rescue race.

Reach Dayton Morinaga at dmorinaga@honoluluadvertiser