The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational: A Surfing Legend's Legacy
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is not your typical surfing competition. It's a rare, prestigious event that captures the essence of big wave surfing and the spirit of a legendary Hawaiian waterman. Read our exclusive interview with the 2024 winner, whose journey to glory was filled with twists and turns: Interview link.
The Rip Curl Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, or simply 'The Eddie', is a surfing event like no other. Despite its infrequent occurrence, lack of fixed schedule, and minimal prize money, it holds a special place in the hearts of surfers worldwide. The 2025-2026 window, spanning December 7 to March 6, has the potential to make history with three consecutive years of the event.
While casual fans might associate 'Eddie Would Go' with merchandise, the true essence of The Eddie lies in its intangible allure. The surfers who compete are not driven by financial gain but by the pride of testing their skills against nature's might. The trophy, a forged steel pitchfork made of waves, symbolizes the raw power of the ocean. And when the event organizers vow to hold it only when the waves reach 40 feet, they mean it. This unwavering commitment to its principles has resulted in just 11 editions in 41 years, a testament to its integrity.
Photographer Brent Bielmann, who has captured every opening ceremony since 2004, the year Bruce Irons won, reflects on the event's significance. Bielmann, who started as an assistant to his uncle, the renowned Brian Bielmann, now finds himself covering the event for Rip Curl, completing a full circle.
The opening ceremony this year was an emotional affair, especially with the passing of Clyde Aikau in May. Clyde, the winner of the 1986 edition and a regular competitor until 2016, embodied the spirit of the event named after his brother, Eddie Aikau. His son, Ha'a Aikau, stepping up to fill his father's role, was a poignant moment that symbolized the passing of the torch.
The event attracts the world's best big wave surfers, with past winners Landon McNamara, Luke Shepardson, and John John Florence in attendance. Bielmann notes that the high percentage of Hawaiian surfers in the lineup this year (69%) contributed to a great turnout, including many spectators.
Despite Waimea's waves beckoning, the surfers invited to The Eddie were not tempted to leave. Being part of this event is an honor, and the surfers respect the opportunity, knowing there are many others who would love to take their place.
The generational gap between the early 30s winners and the next set of champions is notable. Greg Long, the 2009 winner, exemplified sportsmanship by declaring his retirement from the event last year, at 41, to give others a chance. His injury during the event allowed Ben Wilkinson to compete and win the Mark Foo Spirit Award.
Long's words at the event were a testament to its significance: 'Winning in 2009 was a peak, but the true accomplishment was being part of this iconic event... Eddie Aikau's legacy lives on.'
Notable absences this year include Bruce Irons, the 2004 winner, and Kelly Slater, the 2002 champion, who has been a regular at the opening ceremonies. However, the potential for a new champion is high, as no surfer has ever won The Eddie twice.
As the event approaches, Bielmann offers insights into the competitors. He highlights Luke Shepardson's technical prowess and John John Florence's effortless skill, which sometimes gets underscored due to its simplicity.
The event format has slightly changed, with 32 surfers now competing in two, hour-long, eight-surfer heats, reducing the total number of heats for the day.
For those lucky enough to witness The Eddie, Bielmann suggests the guard rail for the best view, but emphasizes the need to arrive early, as the event brings the North Shore to a standstill.
The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is more than a surfing competition; it's a celebration of a legend's legacy and the raw power of nature. And this year, it promises to be another chapter in surfing's rich history.
