Hawaii's big wave surf competition called off
HALEIWA, Hawaii (AP) — Throngs of spectators packed the beach before dawn and elite surfers descended on Oahu's North Shore, as anticipation built for a big-wave surfing competition last held six years ago.
Aikau is a Native Hawaiian surfer famous for riding monster waves and saving hundreds of lives as Waimea Bay's first official lifeguard.
The two lane road that snakes along Oahu's North Shore was backed up with traffic early Wednesday as eager spectators rode bikes or walked to the venue.
El Nino conditions had helped stir up big waves, but the forecast 40-foot swells never materialized Wednesday, event spokeswoman and longtime Aikau family friend Jodi Wilmott said.
Wilmott told The Associated Press on Tuesday that surfers show up at the event to honor the legacy and generous spirit of Eddie.