[i]Thursday 8 December, 2005
Pipeline, Eukai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii
RIP CURL PRO PIPELINE MASTERS
(8-20 December)
Live on www.aspworldtour.com and www.ripcurl.com
Despite Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters organisers being greeted this morning with a near flat ocean, thus their decision to call the event off for today, they are extremely enthusiastic that it will kick off tomorrow in premium Pipeline conditions.[/i]As we go to press the swell is beginning to build for the 11th and final event on the Fosters ASP Mens World Tour and it is predicted that for tomorrow the event will take place in three metre plus (10 foot plus) perfect Pipeline barrels.
Were expecting to see the swell rise throughout the day, said avid swell watcher and ASP President Wayne Bartholomew. We can see the first lines of it now and it should stay at a perfect direction for Pipeline. The ideal swell direction for Pipe is when it comes from the west. Thats when you see it barrel at its best. Ive just called the swell buoys located offshore and they are also showing that a solid swell is on the way.
Swell conditions pending, tomorrow morning will start with the Rip Curl Code STL Trials which will feature a host of well known local Pipeline performers. Their aim is to finish in the top four so that they can take on the best of the best from the Fosters ASP Mens World Tour in the main event.
Locals have a solid record at Pipe as the wave can not only be very daunting for the uninitiated but it can also be extremely difficult to navigate. Last years event champion Jamie OBrien (HAW) is a perfect example of local prowess. He came through the trials and never looked in doubt for a win against the big names. Pipeline is literally in his backyard and he knows the break inside out.
Tomorrow night meanwhile will play host to the official launch party to be held at the Autobahn Centre at the beautiful Waimea Falls. Tour legend Tom Curren will perform in front of the star studded crowd and an auction will take place with all proceeds going to the North Shore Lifeguards Association, who each year patrol the treacherous waters and save many lives.
Stay tuned to www.ripcurl.com or www.aspworldtour.com for all the news and action. A live webcast will be broadcast each day the event is on.
For further information about the Vans Triple Crown Of Surfing go to www.triplecrownofsurfing.com