SURF SPOT
Monster waves could start meet at Pipeline
Advertiser Staff
The Banzai Pipeline is expected to become energized again for the upcoming Monster Energy Pro men's surfing contest.
Waves are forecast to rise this weekend, so the four-day contest could begin as soon as tomorrow.
The holding period for the contest will last from tomorrow through Feb. 9. It will run only on days when conditions are favorable at the famous Banzai Pipeline.
"There are a lot of swells coming in, so there could be some big waves," contest director Reid Inouye said. "It's a matter of watching the winds, and making sure the wind directions are right."
Most of Hawai'i's top professional surfers are expected to enter the Monster Energy Pro, including Fred Patacchia Jr., Pancho Sullivan, Jamie O'Brien, Myles Padaca, Shane Dorian, Evan Valiere and Makua Rothman.
California's Rob Machado, who won the event last year, is also expected to enter.
The contest is part of the 2007 World Qualifying Series, so the top performers will earn points toward qualifying for the 2008 World Championship Tour.
World champion Kelly Slater of Florida and Triple Crown of Surfing champion Andy Irons of Kaua'i are not expected to enter the Monster Energy Pro.
The top finishers in the Monster Energy Pro are also expected to earn invitations to the prestigious Billabong Pipeline Masters contest in December.
For daily status of the contest, call 596-7873 or visit www.monsterenergypro.com.
The contest was open to consumers of Monster Energy Drink from October 2006 through Jan. 2, 2007.
Each of the 20 winners received roundtrip airfares for two, five-night accommodations at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, use of a rental car and $1,500 spending money.
Monster Energy Drink is the title sponsor of the Monster Energy Pro.
HAWAI'I WATERMEN MARKETING EQUIPMENT
Hawai'i surfers/paddlers Brian Keaulana, Todd Bradley and Mike Fox have combined to create the C4 Waterman brand of tools aimed at the growing popularity of stand-up paddle surfing.
Products include boards of various sizes, and paddles.
In the sport of stand-up paddle surfing, the surfer stands on a surfboard and maneuvers with a canoe paddle.
For information on the products and the company, visit www.c4waterman.com.
