"It’s clear that the qualifying swell conditions simply weren’t there this year."
It has been a real bummer winter season on Oahu’s North Shore, this year. Small kine waves, choppy, windy business, little flare. The already dour mood turned even more sour, yesterday, when the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational was officially called “off” for 2025-26.
Contest director Liam McNamara, tasked with delivering the bad news, declared, “As we reach the end of the waiting period for The Eddie, it’s clear that the qualifying swell conditions simply weren’t there this year. Although we had one solid day of big surf, this season was largely lackluster when it came to the large waves we need to run the event. We’d like to sincerely thank everyone who committed their time and support to The Eddie this year. Their dedication is what allows us to continue to honor Eddie Aikau’s legacy.”
Surf fans, everywhere, struggling both mentally and emotionally.
If the Eddie had run, it would have been the first time in its 41-year history for a three-time-in-a-row binge. But who could forget Luke Shepardson’s wildly inspirational win in 2023 wherein the on-duty North Shore lifeguard stole hearts with a display of blue-collar bravery not seen since Harvey Keitel’s turn as Jerry Bartowski in the 1978 classic Blue Collar?
Or last year’s mega heartwarming victory by Liam’s boy Landon?
Alas, that’s it, that’s all and the who’s who of invitees will have to sit on their hands until 2026-27.
Presenting sponsor Rip Curl’s general manager of marketing, James Taylor tried to put a positive spin on the sad, saying he was “hopeful for the development of El Niño conditions at the end of 2026” though which kind of crystal ball can predict the weather a year out?
Speaking of James Taylor, which is your favorite Sweet Baby J tune?
Me?
A Fire and Rain man through and through.